Map showing campground location near Stryker, Montana

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Upper Whitefish Campground

Accessible by rough gravel roads from multiple directions, Upper Whitefish Campground provides 13 lakeside sites and additional spots set back from the water within Stillwater State Forest. The campground accommodates RVs up to 24 feet, though drivers should expect challenging road conditions, particularly after wet weather when some sections become muddy enough to risk getting stuck.

Sites vary considerably in privacy and proximity to Upper Whitefish Lake. The most coveted spots sit directly on the water, while others are positioned near the creek that flows from the lake. Many sites feature natural tree barriers that create separation between neighbors. All sites include picnic tables and fire rings, with vault toilets available throughout the campground. Bear warning signs are posted prominently, reflecting the active wildlife presence in the area.

The lake supports fishing for trout, with schools visible in the clear water. A boat launch accommodates kayaks and small fishing boats. Hiking and biking trails extend into the surrounding forest, connecting to the broader trail network. Cell service is nonexistent, even with signal boosters. Christopher W. notes his "campsite was next to the creek that flows from the lake."

Road access varies by route, with the approach from Highway 93 at Olney featuring washboard surfaces that improve near active logging areas. The route from Whitefish Lake remains rougher and receives grading only as needed. Campers seeking additional options can explore places to camp around Stryker or nearby Red Meadow Lake.

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Map & DirectionsUpper Whitefish Campground is located in Montana near Stryker

Public Campground

Coordinates

48.68497052 N
114.57515054 W

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T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

3 hrs 24 min from Missoula, MT
4 hrs 27 min from Great Falls, MT
4 hrs 35 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
5 hrs 5 min from Spokane, WA

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Reviews5 Camper Reviews - Upper Whitefish Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

5 Reviews

Campers regularly cited beautiful lakeside sites with excellent fishing and scenery. Road access can be challenging for RVs, and restroom facilities receive mixed feedback. Most found it a peaceful retreat despite increased popularity.

Rosstin W.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 16, 2025

Upper whitefish

This is a nice campground. The sites are spacious and clean. The only drawback is the traffic on the road throughout the day.

Site15

Month of VisitJune

Christopher W.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 30, 2024

WOW-What a Beautiful Place

Stayed 7-7-24

Nice stop along the GDMBR. Campsite was next to the creek that flows from the lake. Words lack how beautiful the place is, but the picture help give you an idea.

Me and my friends cycle in, but I also saw several cars, bring water or filter.

Site14

Month of VisitJuly

Jennifer S.

Guide

Reviewed Feb. 17, 2022

Tranquility

This area is absolutely amazing. We stayed at one of the lakeside spots, surrounded by trees. It was very private. The site was very large next to a stream. A picnic table & fire ring was provided. Behind the site is a small trail to the lake, heavily wooded. In June, there weren't any bugs & the temps were perfect (cold) for sleeping with the windows open. The lake has a boat launch for kayaks & very small fishing boats. I can not speak to the toilets as we have an rv. There are bear warning signs everywhere, so be prepared & please do not leave any food out. The road getting to the lake is doable, but if you are pulling an rv be prepared & plan on a couple of white knuckle experiences. The ground was still pretty wet, in a few spots it could be possible to get stuck. There is ZERO cell service, even with a WeBoost. Overall, we would definitely go back as it was so relaxing.

Month of VisitJune

(4) View All

Denyel B.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2020

Bestill My Heart

When I need to disconnect from the world, be surrounded by the beauty of forests and crystal clear water, this is my sanctuary. It has become busier over the years but locals and new visitors alike will find newly expanded and leveled sites just off the lake and 13 coveted on water sites. There are vault facilities but I take those with a grain of salt, it’s camping, in the mountains, it’s the give and take. I drive a 24’ vintage RV so I know that I can literally pack in, pack out.

There are two main access roads if you are coming from the backside of Whitefish Lake or from Highway 93 at Olney, Red Meadow Road can also be accessed from Polebridge, Eureka or from across the Canadian Boarder. So many amazing trails and back roads to explore. The lookouts are always worth the effort! The road from Whitefish Lake is rough and only graded as needed. When coming from Olney the lower part of the road is washboarded but not horrible. Once you reach mile marker 9 at the Lower Whitefish Lake Road cut-across they are running active logging so the road is graded and oiled. Before the Lake is not oiled and areas can be spotty but for the most part is one of the nicer back country roads I have taken.

The Lake itself is enchanting. The water so clear you can see the bottom as the fish swim by. You will often encounter deer, moose and of course the occasional bear. My favorite thing to do is float in my kayak and watch the clouds pass along the mountainside. I’ve been coming here since I was a child and I enjoy sharing the beauty of this area with my family and friends.

(10) View All

Talia H.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 28, 2017

Hidden Spot

Overall a great location and while popular, it's mostly fellow Montanan's and not AS many tourists. Unbelievable fishing (could see schools of trout), plenty of huck pickin, and nice fire pits (when not on fire restriction). Not 5 stars because porta potty is ROUGH! Be warned!

Month of VisitJuly

(4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Upper Whitefish Lake Campground?

Upper Whitefish Lake Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The sites include fire rings and picnic tables. Porta potties are available, though they may not be well-maintained. The campground features both lakeside sites and spots just off the lake, with recent expansions providing more leveled camping areas. There are 13 coveted waterfront sites that tend to be popular. Campers should bring their own water or a water filter as there is no potable water available on site.

How does Upper Whitefish Lake Campground compare to other campgrounds near Whitefish, MT?

Upper Whitefish Lake Campground stands out from other Whitefish area campgrounds for its more authentic Montana experience. While popular, it attracts mostly locals rather than the high volume of tourists found at other Whitefish-area campgrounds. The sites are notably spacious, clean, and private, especially the lakeside spots surrounded by trees. The campground offers a more rustic and disconnected experience compared to more developed options closer to town. What truly distinguishes Upper Whitefish is the exceptional natural beauty, with crystal clear water and serene forest settings that provide a genuine sanctuary feel that's harder to find at busier, more tourist-oriented campgrounds in the region.

What recreational activities can you do at Upper Whitefish Lake?

Upper Whitefish Lake offers outstanding recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is exceptional, with schools of trout visible in the crystal-clear water. Swimming is popular in the pristine lake, and the surrounding forests provide excellent opportunities for huckleberry picking in season. Hiking is available on small trails that wind through the heavily wooded areas around the lake. The campground also serves as a nice stop along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route for cyclists. The natural beauty of the forests and lake create a perfect setting for photography and wildlife watching.

Where is Upper Whitefish Lake Campground located in Montana?

Upper Whitefish Lake Campground is located in northwest Montana, nestled in a forested area surrounding the crystal-clear waters of Upper Whitefish Lake. The campground sits alongside a creek that flows from the lake. It's accessible via a road that gets some traffic throughout the day. The location is relatively remote, making it a perfect sanctuary for those looking to disconnect from the world while still being within reach of Whitefish, MT.

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