Upper Whitefish Campground

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.

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.

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.

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!