Bigfork sits on the northeastern shore of Flathead Lake in Montana, at approximately 2,900 feet elevation. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s and cold winters with average lows in the teens. Campgrounds in the region often operate seasonally from May through October due to heavy winter snowfall, though some RV sites near Bigfork, Montana remain open year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Flathead Lake access from Rollins RV Park is convenient, with pontoon boat rentals available. "We rented a pontoon boat from the RV park and explored the lake. The boat rental for a whole day is equivalent to a 4 hour rental near Spokane. Great prices," notes Brett T.
Hiking nearby: Swan River Nature Trail is accessible from Bigfork. As Julia M. from Outback Montana RV Park & Campground mentions, "We did find a great running trail (Swan River Nature Trail) nearby that was 2 miles one way- flat and smooth gravel so no worries about rolling an ankle. Highly recommended!"
Mountain activities: Glacier National Park day trips are possible from campgrounds in the area. "West Glacier is about 45 minutes away and a very easy drive from Lid Creek Campground," according to Bob R. from Lid Creek Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Wooded campsites provide separation at some parks. "The sites were all surrounded by trees. Many of the sites had their own little secluded area," reports Bea from Mountain Meadow RV Park and Cabins.
Beach quality: Lake access points vary across campgrounds. "The lake is very nice, decent temp for us," notes Darrin R. about the swimming conditions at Lid Creek Campground.
Affordable accommodations: Comparative value matters to campers. Julia M. found Outback Montana offered good value: "It was the cheapest option around the Flathead we could find and we were not disappointed! It was perfect for our needs that week. Quiet, remote, but only a mile walk to Lake Flathead where you can hop in and go for a swim."
Camp host service: Firewood availability is consistently mentioned in reviews. "Camp host was terrific and has firewood at the host site right as you enter the campground," explains Bob R., highlighting the service at Lid Creek Campground.
What you should know
Cell service coverage: Varies significantly throughout the region. "AT&T service was 2 out of 4 bars, but calls came through just fine throughout the entire park," reports Julia M. about Outback Montana.
Road conditions: Access challenges for larger vehicles at some locations. One camper at Clyde's Camp appreciated the accessibility: "Parking my truck was easy and getting into town was quick. Perfect for what my trip needed!" according to Sean L.
Campsite sizing: Measurements matter when booking. Bob R. advises about Lid Creek Campground: "Double-check the campsite length when you reserve - some sites are very short and a smallish car would have trouble fitting."
Water availability: Bring your own at undeveloped campgrounds. "There is NO WATER available at the campground so bring your own or you'll be frustrated," warns Bob R. about Lid Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Kid-friendly parks make stays easier with children. Brian C. highlighted this feature at Rollins RV Park: "One of the best things about the park is the great playground for kids. Our kids loved it!"
Beach swimming safety: Lake access points vary in quality and supervision. "There is a great rock beach with plenty of room for kids to play and splash," notes Elizabeth N. regarding lake access at Lid Creek.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings add to family experiences. "There is an area for dry camping that is very secluded where we saw deer and enjoyed walking our dogs," shares Melanie A. about Outback Montana RV Park & Campground.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage is critical. Bob R. cautions about Lid Creek: "There are vault toilets throughout the campground and bear-proof food boxes - there are definitely bears in the area. Keep pets close by and please store food in the storage boxes."
Tips from RVers
RV site challenges: Maneuvering difficulties exist at some parks. Kathy H. observed at Outback Montana: "They really stack you on top of each other in this place. I could hear every conversation my neighbors were having in detail."
Seasonal operation limits: Booking windows vary across campgrounds. Blake C. from Rollins RV Park shares: "We enjoyed our stay so much that we ended up asking if they could extend their service past October 1st and they said YES!"
Hookup configurations: Location considerations when parking. Ray & Terri F. note about Mountain Meadow RV Park and Cabins: "At least on sites 11-16, pull-throughs, the hookups are fairly close to the front of the site."
Site leveling requirements: Terrain variations need preparation. "Our site was not very level front to back and side to side, and though we got close, we couldn't get fully level," Ray & Terri F. advise about Mountain Meadow RV Park.
Big rig accommodations: Spacious options exist at certain parks. Mike from Pine Meadows RV Resort shares, "If your looking for a big quiet spot in the woods, this is the place. We have a 45' 5th wheel, and our pull through spot, as are most spots, is tremendous."
