Camping cabin options near Charlo, Montana provide access to Flathead Lake's 200-square miles of clear water and the surrounding Mission Mountains. The region sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F during peak season. Winter cabin rentals remain limited as most facilities close between mid-October and early May due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to Do
Fishing access points: Finley Point Unit offers excellent shore fishing opportunities with boat launch facilities. "Stumbled on this campground last August while looking for a place to park the RV for a night on the way up to GNP. Next year, we plan to rent a boat from Polson, then get a slip here for a couple of days to take advantage of that lake access," notes Blake W.
Beach swimming: Big Arm State Unit provides designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "This park is gorgeous, most of the sites are along the water, and there's a boat launch and hiking trails too. Staff is very friendly and the views of the lake and Wild Horse Island are incredible!" says Juliana H.
Hot springs soaking: Wild Horse Hot Springs offers natural mineral pools with varying temperatures. "Great place to soak up in the hot springs. They have a huge variety of separate pools to choose from. $35 for tent spot and $14 per person to soak in their hot spring pools. Beautiful views all around," reports Melita B.
What Campers Like
Lake views: Tent sites at Finley Point provide direct waterfront access. "This was an amazing tent site. A little windy at night, but I loved falling asleep to the sound of the wind and waves breaking as we were right next to the water. The sunset was beautiful and the campground stayed quiet until after 8 so we were able to sleep in," shares Danielle O.
Clean facilities: Jocko Hollow Campground maintains well-kept cabin and bathroom facilities. "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," notes Douglas M.
Pet-friendly options: Cabin rentals at Rollins RV Park welcome dogs with dedicated outdoor spaces. "Amazingly relaxing park! Friendly staff and well kept grounds," reports Cat O., who appreciated the pet-friendly accommodations.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Summer cabin bookings fill 3-6 months in advance, especially lakefront options. "The camping spots are close together but everyone has enough space. Lots of large trailers in the b loop — big, flat spots. A couple of walk-in sites still available at 3 pm on a Saturday in late June!" advises Nicki A. about Rollins RV Park.
Cabin furnishing variations: Most basic cabins include beds and electricity but lack cooking facilities. "Small camp, has shower, and laundry. I was by a lovely gurgling creek. Only drawback was highway traffic. But convenient from 93," notes Lisa about Jocko Hollow.
Water access considerations: Not all cabins have direct lake access points. "Our site was right on the lake. We enjoyed a very lazy day hanging out, reading and swimming," explains Stephanie S., highlighting Big Arm State Unit's waterfront placement.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground amenities: Granite Peak RV Resort provides multiple play areas near cabin rentals. "Nice amenities (mini golf, horse shoes, pool, dog park), close enough to town. Grass at our site," notes A.T.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer sightings at Finley Point. "I stayed to the north at Big Horn and on the west side. This was by far the best spot out of all three. Great views of the water. Great sunsets. Wildlife like it here too. Saw deer every night," shares Chris G.
Bathroom proximity: Select cabins near facilities when traveling with small children. "Bathroom is a vault toilet with too many bugs, but oh well, it's camping," mentions Danielle O. about Finley Point State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Missoula KOA Holiday provides more level sites than other nearby options. "The tent site was spacious and had outdoor lighting. Definitely had a lot more amenities than we are generally used to!" reports Vanessa M.
Seasonal closures: Most cabin rental facilities close by mid-October. "Located on the north side of town, about 15 min drive to downtown Missoula. A bit overpriced, but do accept Good Sam membership for discount until next year," notes Julia M. about Granite Peak RV Resort.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies dramatically around Flathead Lake. "We enjoyed our stay so much that we ended up asking if they could extend their service past October 1st and they said YES! The wifi is really really good, can even watch football on Sundays," explains Blake C. about his experience at Rollins RV Park.
