Paddlers and swimmers have direct access to Ashley Lake from this small Forest Service campground on Montana's west side, where the lake's clear water draws campers back year after year. The campground sits within Flathead National Forest and runs on a first-come, first-served basis from Memorial Day through September 30. Six or seven sites is the typical count, which means the place fills up fast on weekends.
Getting here takes some effort. The access road is rough enough that reviewers consistently flag it as a consideration, particularly for anyone towing a trailer. Tent campers and those with small, agile rigs tend to manage it without trouble. Wind tends to pick up later in the day on the lake, so paddlers and anglers generally find calmer conditions in the morning hours. A pit toilet sits near the center of the campground, and that is the extent of the facilities.
Noise can be a factor. Reviewers note the site attracts younger groups at times, and there is no enforced quiet hours policy in place, so light sleepers should plan accordingly. Weekday stays, particularly Monday through Thursday, tend to be quieter, with only a handful of other campers present. Denyel B. sums up the draw simply: "Ashley Lake never disappoints." For those wanting a different setup on the same lake, Ashley Lake North Campground lies a few miles to the west. No pets are allowed, so leave the dog at home.
Description
This is a very small campground with 2 sites, a vault toilet, picnic tables and fire rings. There is a walk down boat launching site for kayaks and canoes. Access road has sharp hairpin corner so RV's are not recommended. Stay limit is 5 days.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAshley Lake South Campground is located in Montana near Kalispell
Public CampgroundDirections
Located 12 miles from Kalispell. Take Highway 2 west out of Kalispell. Turn at Batavia School onto Ashley Lake Road #912. Take the south shore road turn at the camping sign.
Coordinates
48.21221 N
114.56897 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 38 min from Missoula, MT
- 3 hrs 54 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 4 hrs 5 min from Great Falls, MT
- 4 hrs 23 min from Spokane, WA
