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Map showing campground location near Stryker, Montana
Camper submitted image from Red Meadow LakeView 13 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Stryker, Montana

Red Meadow Lake

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Flathead National Forest, Red Meadow Lake offers dispersed camping at roughly 5,500 feet elevation alongside a small alpine lake. The US Forest Service manages this first-come, first-served site, which operates from May through October and accommodates RVs up to 32 feet.

Access requires navigating a rough road that can challenge larger rigs. Angela notes "The road up is rough but it's worth it," though she successfully brought travel trailers to the area. The campground features approximately six primitive sites, with some positioned lakeside and others set back about 100 yards from the water. Each site includes a fire ring and bear box, with vault toilets available but no potable water source.

The clear lake supports fishing and summer swimming, while the open terrain provides unobstructed night sky viewing. Mosquitoes can be heavy during summer months. Campers often use the parking area when designated sites prove too small or snow-covered during shoulder seasons. For those planning extended stays in the region, campgrounds around Flathead National Forest provide additional options.

Red Meadow Lake works well for self-sufficient campers comfortable with primitive conditions and rough access roads who want lakeside camping in a remote forest setting.

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Map & DirectionsRed Meadow Lake is located in Montana near Stryker

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Directions

Travel 41 miles north of Columbia Falls on County Road 486, then 11 miles west on Forest Service Road 115 or from the west through Stillwater State Forest

Coordinates

48.75400072 N
114.56100018 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Red Meadow Lake

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5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the stunning lakeside setting and peaceful remote atmosphere with essential amenities like bear boxes and fire rings. Many mentioned the rough access road but found the beautiful lake and primitive camping spots worth the effort.

Reviewed Sep. 7, 2023

Beautiful lakeside camping

One of my favorite spots to camp! Been here a few times while bikepacking in the area. There are a few primitive campsites near the lake. Sites include two bear boxes and a vault toilet. Bring your own water and/or water filter. There can be a lot of mosquitos in the summer so be prepared!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Molly S., September 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Molly S., September 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Molly S., September 7, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 11, 2022

Up to here

Great place. There are 4 lakeside locations and 2 just back a bit. You can boondock here. Elevation is 5500 ish. Beautiful and first come first serve.

Site2
Month of VisitSeptember
  • 6 fire rings
    Play button icon
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2020

So beautiful and secluded!

The road up is rough but it’s worth it. We had two individuals with travel trailers and a truck camper. We sent the guy with the truck camper ahead to scope it out because we got nervous. However, when we got up there, it was absolutely gorgeous! There’s about 5-6 actual spots, but we used the parking lot because the spots were too covered with snow and too small. Theres one spot with a beautiful view, but the others are about 100yds from the lake. The water is absolutely gorgeous and clear. We didn’t find any hiking trails though.

  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Angela , November 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Angela , November 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Angela , November 1, 2020
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Apr. 23, 2020

Perfect small lake camping

Red Meadow Lake is a small lake with only few camping spots, very remote and peaceful. Fishing on the lake is good, summer swimming and kayaking. Most of the camping spots have fire rings and food safe boxes. Perfect location for star gazing at night and the PNW Trail run close by.

  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Brian N., April 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Red Meadow Lake by Brian N., April 23, 2020
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Red Meadow Lake Campground?

Red Meadow Lake Campground offers primitive camping with basic amenities. The site features fire rings at most camping spots, bear-resistant food storage boxes, and a vault toilet. There are no water hookups, so visitors should bring their own water or a filtration system for lake water. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. There are approximately 4-6 designated campsites, with some situated directly lakeside and others set slightly back from the water.

How do I get to Red Meadow Lake Campground in Montana?

Red Meadow Lake Campground is located in a remote area of Montana, accessible via Red Meadow Road. The road to the campground is quite rough and challenging, requiring careful driving, especially for those with trailers. The campground sits at approximately 5,500 feet elevation. While the journey requires some effort, campers consistently report that the beautiful destination is well worth the drive. For larger vehicles, it's advisable to scout ahead if possible or proceed with caution, as the access road can be difficult but is passable with proper preparation.

What fishing opportunities are available at Red Meadow Lake?

Red Meadow Lake offers good fishing opportunities in a peaceful, remote setting. The small mountain lake supports a healthy fish population, making it an excellent spot for anglers seeking a quieter fishing experience away from more crowded waters. The lake is particularly well-suited for small watercraft like kayaks or canoes, allowing fishermen to access different areas of the water. For the best experience, bring appropriate fishing gear and check Montana fishing regulations regarding licenses and any specific rules for this body of water before your trip.

When is the best season to camp at Red Meadow Lake?

Summer is the optimal season for camping at Red Meadow Lake when the access road is fully open and weather conditions are favorable. During summer months, visitors can enjoy swimming and kayaking in the lake, along with hiking on nearby trails including the Pacific Northwest Trail. Be prepared for mosquitos during this peak season by bringing appropriate repellent. The high elevation (around 5,500 feet) means temperatures can be cooler than surrounding areas, making for comfortable camping conditions even in mid-summer.

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