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Yellow Bay State Park

Yellow Bay State Park Campground, near Bigfork, Montana, is a cozy spot perfect for tent camping right by the stunning Flathead Lake. With just a handful of sites, it offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.

The campground features fire rings at each site, making it easy to gather around the fire after a day of swimming or fishing in the clear waters. There's a small creek that runs through the area, adding a nice touch of tranquility as it flows into the lake just a short walk away. Visitors have mentioned that the campground is well-kept, and the nearby restrooms are a bonus for those who prefer a bit more convenience.

If you're up for some adventure, the area is great for hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Campers have raved about the gorgeous mountain views and the crystal-clear water, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor activities. Plus, with a boat ramp nearby, you can easily launch your boat for a day on the lake. Just keep in mind that the highway is close by, so you might hear some road noise during the day, but it quiets down at night.

Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the beautiful trails, Yellow Bay State Park Campground is a solid choice for a memorable camping experience.

Description

State Park

Yellow Bay-Flathead Lake State Park has 5 tent campsites that are first-come, first-serve.

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Location

Yellow Bay State Park is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located 15 miles north of Polson on Montana 35. Milepost 17.

Address

23861 Mt Hwy 35
Bigfork, MT 59911

Coordinates

47.87828361 N
114.029174 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 8, 2020

Yellow Bay campground

This small tent only campground is located on Yellow Bay at Flathead Lake. There are 6 spots, all just 25 yards from a parking area. There is a wheelbarrow for moving your items if you need it. The spots are in an open area without much privacy between them (although there are trees providing privacy from the main road in). There is a small stream running along the side of the campground before dumping into Flathead Lake just 200 yards away.

There are fire rings at the campsites, and a pit toilet at the parking area. Yellow Bay is also a state park, and there are regular restrooms at the parking area just a short walk away from the camping area.

The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim. There is a roped off public swim area, along with a small boat dock nearby.

The highway is just above the campsite so there is road noise from time to time but it quiets down at night and the nearby stream drowns out most of it. Good cell service. The closest market is Papa’s Woods Bay Market, about 10 minutes north. They have a basic selection but it works.

  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Todd M., October 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Todd M., October 8, 2020
Reviewed Jul. 6, 2018

Very pretty

Yellow Bay is a very small park on the east side of Flathead Lake. There is a boat ramp and some shoreline, along with a few campsites for tents only. Yellow Bay is the deepest part of Flathead Lake and it’s a very cool spot to swim or fish.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Juliana H., July 6, 2018
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  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Juliana H., July 6, 2018
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Mar. 11, 2018

Great Area

This is a great little campground! All the sites are very nice and it’s all very well kept! A small creek runs right through the camp and into the lake, which is crystal clear! The rocks are gorgeous and it was a wonderful place to fish!

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Megan W., March 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Megan W., March 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Megan W., March 11, 2018
Reviewed Sep. 26, 2016

Gorgeous hikes, great campground!!

I love a camping spot that has great hikes and beautiful scenery and views. This campground has all of those! You are surrounded by beautiful mountains, crystal clear water and a place where you can do a lot of great outdoor activities! This campsite is located on Flathead Lake, one of my favorite lakes in Montana! While staying here, I was able to get some good hikes in, kayaked on the lake, and spent some quality time with friends and family. The campground was well kept and clean, and I really loved how spaced out each campsite were. I didn't feel like I was right next to someone. They also have restrooms on site, tables, and fire pits. It's also nice because there are a few other state parks close by, like Finley Poiny State Park. This park has great places to swim. I hiked in the Jewel Basin area, which was beautiful. I saw some wildlife and even came into close contact with a little chipmunk! Great place to stay, with lots of fun outdoor activities!!

  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Allyson T., September 26, 2016
  • Cute little chipmunk!!
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  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Allyson T., September 26, 2016
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2016

Definitely worth coming! Great atmosphere!

Yellow Bay State Park in Montana is one of my all time favorites. Growing up in Montana, this campground was a place my family and I always visited. Flathead Lake is such a gorgeous spot- so any camping a long the lake is perfect. Yellow Bay State Park is located on the east shore of Flathead Lake. Obviously, because this campground is located on Flathead Lake there are a lot of water activities. My family always brings their boat, and we go tubing, fishing, water skiing, and swimming. We also really love to kayak and stand up paddle board, and this is the perfect place to do it. This campground isn't very big-I believe there are 5 tent sites. There are fire pits, a boat launch and a public bathroom. The campground is pretty well kept and clean. They are pretty strict about where you dump your trash- do not burn your garbage in your fire pit. Make sure to dump your trash in the assigned garbage bins (they are bear-resistant bins). There is also a 14 day camping limit and it is open May 1st- September 30th.

  • Review photo of Yellow Bay State Park by Ashley W., August 29, 2016
Reviewed Jul. 10, 2016

Love love love

I absolutely love Montana the yellow Bay Area keeps me coming back I live in beautiful Idaho however Montana just has something different to offer and I I'm always looking for excuses to go back to Montana

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Yellow Bay State Park?

    Camping at Yellow Bay State Park can cost between $9.00 and $28.00 depending on the site.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Yellow Bay State Park?

    Yellow Bay State Park allows vehicles up to 30 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Yellow Bay State Park?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Yellow Bay State Park, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Yellow Bay State Park?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is unknown.