Established Camping
Lake Alva Campground
Lake Alva Campground, near Seeley Lake, Montana, is a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors year-round. With its scenic views and proximity to a peaceful, no-wake lake, it’s perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, or just soaking up the sun by the water.
The campground offers clean facilities, including toilets and paved parking spots, making it a comfortable place to set up camp. Many visitors have praised the well-maintained sites, which provide good shade and a nice breeze, ideal for those hot summer days. As one camper noted, “The water is the perfect temperature and everyone is always friendly.”
For those who love hiking, the nearby Morrell Falls is a must-see, providing a great family-friendly adventure. Campers can also enjoy starry nights, with the calm waters of Lake Alva offering a serene backdrop for stargazing. Just remember, it’s a quiet spot, so motorized boats are off-limits, keeping the atmosphere peaceful and relaxing.
While some campers have mentioned that the sites can feel a bit close together, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Lake Alva Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to unwind in nature.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Lolo National Forest
Overview
Lake Alva Campground is located on the North shore of Lake Alva, approximately 11 miles north of Seeley Lake, and offers visitors the chance to camp and enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a loon population and has protected nesting areas. The birds' mesmerizing calls can often be heard in the campground.__All boats on Lake Alva must operate at a "no-wake" speed year-round.
Recreation
The campground is a popular destination for swimming, boating, paddling, picnicking, and fishing. There are a variety of freshwater fish including Kokanee salmon, perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, and trout, among other species. Motorized boating is allowed on Lake Alva within the "No-Wake" regulation. Many non-motorized boaters find solace during the evening and morning hours on the lake. The Mission Mountain Wilderness Area is about 15 miles northwest of the campground. The area is popular for its scenic views and abundant wildlife. Active glaciers, alpine lakes, meadows and clear, icy streams, along with vertical cliffs and jagged peaks make up the area.
Natural Features
Lake Alva is a glacial-formed lake situated in a valley between the Swan and Mission mountain ranges. It is one of a half a dozen lakes within the valley known as the 'Chain of Lakes' through which the Clearwater River flows. At an elavation of approximately 4,200 feet, temperatures are relatively cool on summer days. The area contains a wide variety of wildlife and is home to white-tailed deer, elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, grizzly and black bears (learn about bear safety ). Both the bald and golden eagle reside in the forest, along with trumpeter swan, herons and dozens of varieties of ducks. The lake is home to a loon population and has protected nesting areas. The birds' mesmerizing calls can often be heard in the campground.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (406) 677-2233.
Nearby Attractions
The town of Seeley Lake, MT is about 11 miles south of the campground. A variety of recreation services such as boat, canoe, and kayak rentals as well as guide services and resorts are offered there. Services like gas, groceries, restaurants, and lodging can also be found in town. Access to a variety of forests, sweeping views, mountain lakes, and rugged peaks can be discovered just a short drive up any of the nearby Forest Service roads. Just a day trip away, Glacier National Park is known for a variety of opportunities to explore alpine landscapes, active glaciers, and view unique wildlife. Contact the park for current conditions. Missoula, one of Western Montanas outdoor recreation hubs is about an hour from Seeley Lake, MT. Missoula is a full-service city with 2 hospitals, an international airport, and access to services, hotels, and outdoor activities.
Fee Info
The nightly fee for individual RV/tent campsites is $20.00, beginning the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. Parking is allowed in the designated parking spur for each campsite only. Vehicles that do not fit must deposit an additional vehicle fee of $5.00 and must park in the day-use area. No parking along roadways. Day use facilities are free of charge and are open from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily. Outside of peak season (Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day), campsites will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Location
Lake Alva Campground is located in Montana
Directions
From I-90 take exit 109 for MT-200 E and travel for 32.3 mi. Turn left onto MT-83 N and travel 14 mi to the town of Seeley Lake, MT. Continue north on Montana Highway 83 for 26.1 mi and turn left into the entrance of Lake Alva Campground.
Coordinates
47.325 N
113.582 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobilePoor
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
