150 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options in the Charlo, Montana region center around Flathead Lake and nearby mountain areas. Diamond S RV Park in Ronan and Finley Point State Park on Flathead Lake provide developed camping with amenities for both tent and RV campers. The Flathead Lake area features several established campgrounds with cabins, yurts, and glamping options, while dispersed camping can be found in more remote locations like Lucifer Lake Wilderness Backcountry. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from April through October or November.
Road conditions and seasonal closures affect camping access throughout the region. Several campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer months when visitor numbers peak. "The campground was difficult to find online so we drove out anyways. Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use," noted one visitor regarding North Crow Creek. Many areas in the region fall within Tribal lands, requiring special permits for non-residents. Weather conditions vary significantly by elevation, with higher elevation sites experiencing cooler temperatures and possible snow even into early summer. Cell service can be limited outside of town areas, and campers should prepare for varying levels of amenities.
Waterfront camping dominates the region's highly-rated experiences, with several campers highlighting the views and access to Flathead Lake as major highlights. The KOA in Polson receives consistently positive reviews for its amenities and lake views. "Beautiful spot with great views of Flathead Lake. The RV sites were nice and spacious and level with their own patio and chairs," reported one camper. For those seeking a more primitive experience, backcountry sites like Lucifer Lake offer solitude and wildlife viewing opportunities, though visitors should be prepared for rugged terrain and possible bear encounters. Campers frequently mention the scenic mountain views from many campgrounds, with the Mission Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop to sites throughout the region. Most campgrounds with hookups offer both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service, making them suitable for a variety of RV types.
"This RV park in Roman, MT is about an hour or so away from the Western entrance of glacier National Park. Easy to find on Highway 93 on way to the park."
from $63 - $68 / night
Check Availability"It’s about 3 miles of the main road around Flathead lake , nestled in a beautiful lakeside neighborhood."
"There are a select few sites yards away from the water, each with a bit of beach. The biting bugs were minimal, but the swarms of other bugs were impressive, and the fish obviously loved them."
from $6 - $54 / night
Check Availability"Montana State Parks are run well."
"Most of the sites are along the water, but seem a little close to one another. Fortunately, the woman at the gate told me about sites T1 and T3."
from $18 - $90 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful spot with great views of Flathead Lake. The RV sites were nice and spacious and level with their own patio and chairs. They also offer cabins and tent sites."
"The pics say it all so close to glacier national Park without the glacier prices don't miss this one. Also the lake looks like Caribbean"
from $10 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Tent spot is around $30. This place was great. The porta potty was the cleanest one I’ve ever been to. You have to fill up your own water for the shower."
from $33 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Stayed here on a photography trip through northwest Montana and it more than earned the stop. Big timber over the sites, real spacing between neighbors, and quiet after dark."
"The hike to the waterfall is beautiful, and swimming and snorkeling in this lake are wonderful due to the clarity and purity."
from $22 - $250 / night
Check Availability"This campground is nice and small and tucked away so that you can explore the woods and wilderness around it. It is very well kept and a great value for the price."
"Not something I feel they should be judged for, they were concerned about my kids and asked them to keep away from the left side because of that."
"Nonresident reservation conservation permit required, available at fwp.mt.gov Accessed by mission falls trailhead, trail is steep and unmaintained after you reach the waterfall."
LegendWe chose this KOA for its proximity to downtown Missoula. There is an REI right around the corner. It is a very large campground but empty in early September. Our space is an “extra parking” space so nobody would be next to us if it were busy. Feels older but has the tent camping, cabins, pools, hot tubs one expects from a KOA Holiday. Bathrooms dated but clean. A bit smelly due to poor ventilation.
ScoutNice to be in the Forest, this spot has some reasonable privacy and a nice view out the back of the van of forest
TravelerNew Management is excellent. Fire rings, clean bathroom, laundry, frisbee golf, river access.
TravelerI'm a camp host at Finley Point Unit,Flathead Lake State Park. I can honestly say this is the most beautiful setting I've camped in. The campground is kept clean, the employees and the camp hosts ( including me) are friendly. I haven't seen one unhappy camper in 2 months. I highly recommend a stay at this park. One little tip. reserve in advance, the campground fills up fast.
GuideSites are dusty towards the end but the access to the river makes up for it.
LegendFairly peaceful here. I think it would be difficult to bring a trailer bigger than about 35 feet in here as the campground Road loop has some pretty tight corners around trees. Our spot was fairly easy to get into. Nice big area behind the trailer for setting up chairs and it had a picnic table with a camping. Wonderful 2 mile nature walk around the park down by the lake. We went down the road a few miles to the lodge and rented canoes for a couple hours. There are water spickets available for freshwater and several pit toilets. We paid $34 a night for nonMontana residents.
GuideThis free campsite has absolutely gorgeous views and sits right along a beautiful river—definitely bring a kayak if you want to get out on the water! Keep in mind that there is a little ambient noise, as it is located close to the highway on one side and a railway track on the other. Overall, it is a stunning and convenient free location that is well worth a stop!
GuideTent campers traveling as a family of 6. Friendly camp hosts Lisa and Judy were attentive and enjoyable to chat with. Facilities are all new or newly restored. Clean vault toilet, clean flush toilet restroom with sink. Docks were new and well maintained. Perfect for launching boats and swimming and fishing. Rocky shore was fun for the little to play. Older kids fish and swam off dock. Wish our stay was longer. 2 days was not enough. Close to grab fresh cherries from nearby produce stands. Papa’s gas and general store has everything you may have forgotten or may need. Highlight of our road trip so far! Will be back.
GuideTent camped here with the family for a couple nights. Clean vault toilets. Fresh water available from camp pump. Kids loved this! No electrical or water at the sites. Lots of paddle boarders and fly fishermen here. Kids floated down the rapids in their intestines and fly fished off the bank. We felt secluded and couldn’t see our neighbors. Flat tent site with picnic table and fire ring. Clear path to the river with private frontage. Will def come again.
Dispersed camping opportunities near Charlo, Montana extend beyond the immediate town area to several wilderness locations. The region sits at an elevation range of 3,000-4,500 feet with significant temperature variations between seasons. Winter snow typically lingers at higher elevations until late May, making June through September the primary camping season for most backcountry areas.
Hiking to waterfalls: Holland Lake Campground provides access to hiking trails with waterfall views. "The hike to the Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," notes a camper who found it "excellent for families."
Fishing alpine lakes: At Lucifer Lake Wilderness Backcountry, accessed via the mission falls trailhead, campers can find seclusion and excellent fishing. "Amazing fishing, great views. Short hikes to other high mountain lakes," reports one visitor, though they warn to "be wary of Grizzlies in late July/August during moth hatch."
Rock collecting: The Jocko River area offers unique geological features for rock enthusiasts. "The rocks are the most beautiful and rock collectors' dream!" states a camper at Jocko Hollow Campground, adding that visitors should "be careful camping next to the rivers as in early spring, waters rise in the evenings and will flood out the lower Plains."
Lakefront access: Camping directly on the water ranks high for visitors to Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park. One camper who found a walk-up spot noted, "Got lucky with spot 17, lower loop is right by the lake, with the best views ever! This year our walk up spot was 3, on the upper loop."
Wildlife viewing: Many of the best places to camp near Charlo, Montana offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. At Holland Lake Campground, a visitor mentioned, "There are both black and grizzly bears that frequent this area daily, so be very careful with your food, and bear aware when hiking. My last stay was only 2 nights, and I ran into two bears, one that strolled right by my trailer."
Clean facilities: Diamond S RV Park maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Very clean facilities, friendly owners, and a nice fire pit," reports one camper, while another noted it has "level sites" and is a "solid, clean, well kept place to stay."
Tribal land requirements: Some camping areas near Charlo require special permits for non-tribal members. Regarding North Crow Creek, a visitor advised, "Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cellular connectivity. At Holland Lake, a camper pointed out there's "no cell service, showers...just flush toilets," while another mentioned "the closest cell service is just outside of Seeley Lake."
Bear safety measures: The area has active bear populations requiring proper precautions. A Lucifer Lake visitor emphasized, "Be wary of Grizzlies in late July/August during moth hatch," while Holland Lake campers frequently mention encountering bears during their stays.
Look for beach access: Select waterfront sites that offer gentle entry points to the water. At Finley Point State Park, a camper mentioned, "There are a select few sites yards away from the water, each with a bit of beach. The biting bugs were minimal, but the swarms of other bugs were impressive."
Consider yurts as alternatives: Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park offers alternative accommodations perfect for families with young children. "The most amazing way to stay here is in a yurt! These circular traditional structures are an experience not soon forgotten buy kids or adults alike," shared one enthusiastic visitor.
Find family-friendly hiking options: Several campgrounds offer trails suitable for children. At Holland Lake, a camper noted the trail to Holland Falls is "suitable for beginners and children, but be aware that it's rocky when you reach the falls, and dogs and children should be supervised in that area."
Site levelness varies widely: Even at RV parks, prepare for uneven ground. At Mission Meadows RV Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "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."
Consider electrical needs: When planning your stay at RV sites near Charlo, check for appropriate electrical service. The Polson-Flathead Lake KOA received praise for its facilities, with one camper noting, "Nice size RV campground overlooking Flathead Lake. Amenities: Mini golf, Hot Tub, Pool, Basketball court, Volleyball Court, Dog run, Laundry room, Small market/Gift shop."
Watch for seasonal sap issues: At certain times of year, tree sap can cause problems for RVs. At Diamond S RV Park, a camper warned, "Stay clear of trees in center/ maple sap! Covered rv quickly. Easy clean up and owners offered to move us."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping sites in Charlo, Montana?
Charlo is situated in Montana's beautiful Mission Valley with several camping options nearby. Mission Meadows RV Campground near Ronan offers convenient access for RVs. For lakeside camping, Yellow Bay State Park Campground on Flathead Lake provides stunning mountain views and crystal clear water access. Other options in the region include North Crow Creek near Ronan and Jocko Hollow Campground near Arlee. The area is surrounded by the Mission Mountains, offering both developed campgrounds with facilities and more remote wilderness camping opportunities within a short drive from Charlo.
What amenities are available at campgrounds near Charlo?
Campgrounds near Charlo offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Rollins RV Park on Flathead Lake provides back-in RV sites, tent spaces, and cabins with a quiet, beautiful setting and friendly staff. Jim & Mary's RV Park features clean facilities, plenty of shade, and helpful staff. Many public campgrounds like Harpers Lake include basic amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables. Some campgrounds offer water access, restrooms (typically seasonal), and designated camping areas. RV parks typically provide more extensive facilities while public and dispersed sites generally offer more basic amenities with natural surroundings as the main attraction.
When is the best season for camping in Charlo?
The prime camping season near Charlo runs from late spring through early fall (May through September), when weather conditions are most favorable. Summer offers warm days perfect for enjoying Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park and other water recreation areas. Late spring brings beautiful wildflowers, while early fall showcases spectacular foliage with fewer crowds. For those seeking backcountry experiences, Upper Holland Lake Campsites are accessible during summer months after the snowmelt. Many campgrounds in the area have seasonal operations, with facilities like restrooms available only during warmer months. Winter camping is possible but requires proper cold-weather gear and experience with potentially limited accessibility.
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