Best Campgrounds near Dayton, MT

Camping around Dayton, Montana centers on Flathead Lake, with state parks offering both developed and primitive sites. Finley Point and Big Arm state park units provide camping with lake access, while private RV parks like Rollins RV Park feature additional amenities. Most campgrounds accommodate tents and RVs, with several locations like Yellow Bay State Park designed specifically for tent camping. The Blair Flats dispersed camping area offers free primitive sites for those seeking a more rustic experience away from developed facilities.

Seasonal availability varies significantly across the region, with most state parks operating from spring through fall. Finley Point Unit operates from April through mid-November, while Big Arm is open from early May through late September. West Shore and Lake Mary Ronan state parks remain open year-round, providing options during winter months. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer when waterfront sites fill quickly. A visitor commented that "Most sites are on the small side, and most are not very flat," highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate sites for larger RVs or trailers.

Waterfront campsites receive particularly high ratings from visitors exploring the Flathead Lake area. Campers consistently mention the exceptional water clarity, mountain views, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Big Arm State Park, located on Flathead Lake, provides access to swimming and boating, with several walk-in tent sites offering enhanced privacy and solitude. One camper described their experience at Big Arm as "truly one of the best campsites I've ever had," noting the private lakeside access and opportunity to set up hammocks near the water's edge. Most campgrounds offer basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, though amenities vary considerably between state parks and private facilities, with RV parks typically offering full hookups and shower facilities not found at more primitive sites.

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Best Camping Sites Near Dayton, Montana (203)

    1. Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    24 Reviews
    Big Arm, MT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 837-3041

    $18 - $90 / night

    "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."

    "Flathead Lake is a very large wonder of nature and the town of Polson is perfectly situated.  You will not see a more gorgeous mountain range.  "

    2. West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    18 Reviews
    Lakeside, MT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 844-3044

    $18 - $24 / night

    "West Shore State Park was a beautiful way to spend an afternoon after kayaking to Wild Horse Horse Island State Park nearby. The water was clear and the dogs throughly enjoyed splashing around."

    "On Flathead Lake with views of the lake. Choose loop B if you want electric. Loop A doesn't have electric and is closer to the highway. Good trails to the lake."

    3. Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    17 Reviews
    Polson, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 837-3041

    $6 - $54 / night

    "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."

    4. Lake Mary Ronan State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Proctor, MT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 849-5082

    $18 - $144 / night

    "My wife and I headed to Montana on a whim. We knew it would be difficult to find a campsite just for one night. After, many calls, Dennis had a single night availability."

    "This was our first time visiting Lake Mary Ronan or the state park. The layout of the campground was very nice and spacious. It was extremely clean."

    5. Blue Bay Campground

    10 Reviews
    Polson, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 982-3123

    $10 - $90 / night

    "My site is right on the lake with lake access. It’s a short walk to water, trash, and bathrooms (not all in the same location)."

    "This is a private, tribal run campground about half way up the eastern shore of Flathead Lake."

    6. Rollins RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Dayton, MT
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 844-0572

    $26 - $55 / night

    "My family and I recently stayed at Rollings RV Park on Flathead Lake in Montana, and we loved it!"

    "Our first time to Flathead lake. Spots were booking up quick around the lake. Found this gem, got a spot reserved for Labor Day weekend. The park is very clean and well maintained."

    7. Wayfarers State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Bigfork, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 837-4196

    "I love living in Montana and being able to hike some of the best spots ever. Flathead is also an amazing spot, so really any campground in the area is good in my opinion."

    "Very close to the beautiful town of Bigfork and great amenities, yet it feels tucked away. Right on Flathead lake, can’t beat the views!"

    8. Yellow Bay State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Dayton, MT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 752-5501

    $9 - $28 / night

    "You are surrounded by beautiful mountains, crystal clear water and a place where you can do a lot of great outdoor activities!"

    "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"

    9. Blair Flats

    14 Reviews
    Flathead National Forest, MT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 758-5208

    "Be prepared for a colder night because of your proximity to the water. The only negative thing about this campsite were the masses of mosquitoes and other bugs."

    "Lovely little campsite next to the water. A little buggy but not too bad. Campsites we’re clean, had a fire pit and nice flat tent area, pit toilet on site too which was a nice surprise."

    10. Wild Horse RV Resort - LOT 1 - Big Arm, MT

    1 Review
    Big Arm, MT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 531-5582

    $60 / night

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Recent Reviews near Dayton, MT

979 Reviews of 203 Dayton Campgrounds


  • Jeff R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Camp off North Fork Road

    Beautiful spot

    Just a big field, room for about 20 figs of any size. About 20 minutes from West Glacier, Columbia Falls closer has everything you'd need.

  • Greg J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Blair Flats

    blair flats

    Stayed for two days in site #2 . Awesome experience.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed

    Busy beach, rough road

    I parked in a turnout across the street and walked down to this location. The road was filled with huge pot holes. The beach was crowded with several campers and other boaters that weren't camping there. It would be worth it, probably, with kids, but I'm alone with my dog and decided i want her to have more freedom, so I moved on. However, there are several other turnouts on the road, so it is worth exploring if you don't have a large vehicle.

  • Mason O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    Pretty basic campsites

    Used to dispersed camping so a bit different for us. Sites were good distance from each other to not feel crowded. Campground has 1 shower location on loop A so a bit inconvenient but hey at least it’s a shower. Check in was a bit confusing so we ended up just going to our site and there were no problems. Firewood only available for purchase, no scavenging for wood. Another good spot for a one night stop for us.

  • Matthew R.
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Beaver Creek

    Peaceful, Private, and Picturesque

    The sites are just spaced out enough to feel private. In our site, we could barely see any other fires at night. It was great having easy access to the abandoned "D Loop" walking trail.

    As others have said, these were some of the cleaner vault toilets we've seen.

  • Reagan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Stillwater Getaway

    Super friendly spot, with kayaks and canoes available

    Diverse campground with tent sites, car camping sites, and cabins and teepees. Ryan was super friendly and offered showers, an outdoor kitchen, kayaks to use, and potable water

  • Reagan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Glacier Rim River Access 10363

    Peaceful, sandy beach

    This was much more private than Middle Fork, only 3 spots and you can only stay for 3 days

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Beautiful little spot

    Stayed 2 nights while I visited Glacier National Park. Found an incredible spot. But if you are a car camper or tent camper there are even more amazing spots than this one, if you can believe it. Only downside is the road getting here is not great..rough and a lot of potholes. Bonus…it’s only 12 miles from the West Glacier entrance.


Guide to Dayton

Camping near Dayton, MT, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful lakes and scenic views. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Swan Lake Campground said, “Stunning park across the street from the lake.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Rocky Mountain Hi Campground remarked, “Clean showers and bathrooms are clean.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer at West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park mentioned, “The hosts on duty that evening—absolute angels on earth!”

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with water access. One family at Swan Lake Campground enjoyed, “Great campground for dog walks - short walk over to the swan lake boat dock.”
  • Safety First: Always supervise children near water. A camper at Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park reminded others to be cautious, especially with wildlife around.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Choose sites that offer some privacy. A visitor at Blair Flats appreciated the “nice fire pit” and “great view of the river,” making it a perfect spot for family bonding.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Rocky Mountain Hi Campground said, “Full hookup sites, big rig friendly, and great location.”
  • Space Considerations: Some RV spots can be tight. A camper at Columbia Falls RV Park noted, “Spots are way too close,” so be mindful of your vehicle size.
  • Local Attractions: Stay close to attractions. One visitor at Spruce Park On The River mentioned, “Great base camp for the numerous outdoor opportunities of the area.”

Camping near Dayton, MT, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dayton, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dayton, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 203 campgrounds and RV parks near Dayton, MT and 31 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Dayton, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dayton, MT is Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 24 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dayton, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 free dispersed camping spots near Dayton, MT.

What parks are near Dayton, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Dayton, MT that allow camping, notably Flathead National Forest and Lolo National Forest.