Tent camping near Big Arm, Montana positions visitors within the forest-lined shores of Flathead Lake at an elevation of 2,927 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F in July and August, though evenings cool considerably to 45-55°F even during peak season. Most dispersed camping sites around Big Arm lack facilities and require visitors to practice proper waste management.
What to do
Swimming access: At Yellow Bay State Park Campground, the shoreline offers ideal swimming conditions. "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," notes a camper. The park includes a roped-off public swim area and a small boat dock.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Flathead Lake provides calm waters for paddling sports. "We also really love to kayak and stand up paddle board, and this is the perfect place to do it," shares a Yellow Bay visitor. Some campgrounds like Mere's Magic Trout Pond even provide equipment: "There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond."
Fishing opportunities: Many campers visit specifically for fishing Flathead Lake's clear waters. "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!" reports a Yellow Bay camper. Ashley Lake, about 45 minutes from Big Arm, also attracts anglers with its exceptionally clear water.
What campers like
Waterfront access: The best tent camping near Big Arm, Montana often includes direct water access. At Blankenship Bridge, campers appreciate the riverside location: "We stayed here to have quick access to Glacier National Park... many spots for car or van campers to park near the beautiful river. The location is breathtaking."
Natural features: Many sites offer unique natural elements that enhance the camping experience. A Yellow Bay visitor noted, "There is a small stream running along the side of the campground before dumping into Flathead Lake just 200 yards away." This stream provides both ambiance and practical benefits as "the nearby stream drowns out most of [the road noise]."
Cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities are consistently mentioned in reviews. At Ashley Lake South Campground, "The lake is crystal clear and the campground is very clean." Even at more rustic sites like Blankenship Bridge, campers note "Super clean porta potty" facilities.
What you should know
Limited site availability: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Ashley Lake South Campground has "only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there." Plan to arrive early, especially on summer weekends.
Road conditions: Access to the best camping spots often requires navigating challenging roads. "The road coming down to the camping area was sketchy with deep potholes and ruts but we had a large SUV so we managed," reports a Blankenship Bridge visitor. Another camper warns of "huge pot holes and water puddles" requiring "high clearance to get down there."
Tribal land restrictions: Some areas near Big Arm require special permits. At North Crow Creek, campers should know "it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use." During special circumstances, access may be further restricted to tribal members only.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety gear: Bring life jackets for children when camping near Flathead Lake. A Yellow Bay camper recommends, "My family always brings their boat, and we go tubing, fishing, water skiing, and swimming," suggesting multiple water activities require appropriate safety equipment.
Wheeled gear transport: Some sites require carrying equipment from parking areas to campsites. Yellow Bay State Park offers this solution: "There are 6 spots, all just 25 yards from a parking area. There is a wheelbarrow for moving your items if you need it."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about bear safety in this region. A visitor mentions, "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)."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs face significant challenges at most tent camping areas near Big Arm. At Hungry Horse Reservoir, a reviewer cautions, "This is a good spot for smaller RVs or tents but any spot I seen for RVs larger than 30' was taken or really not available."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. A Mission Meadows RV Campground visitor notes, "There are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven. The best spots are W&E, and the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan."
Road access information: Check road conditions before attempting access with any RV. At Hungry Horse Reservoir, an RVer advises, "37 miles from Hungry Horse to this location, almost 25 of the unpaved and some of the road is really rough and extremely narrow, much of it along steep Cliffs." Another cautions, "after dragging my 38' RV up the road I wished that they had signs at the bottom noting all the paid for sites were full."