Flathead Lake glamping opportunities extend beyond the traditional yurts at Big Arm State Park. The area around Dayton, Montana sits at approximately 2,900 feet elevation along the western shore of Flathead Lake. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically reach the 80s with cool evenings that make campfires essential at most sites.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Wild Horse Hot Springs offers several hiking options with scenic mountain views. "Great hot springs! Hosts were very accommodating when we let them know we were coming in very late. Clean, quiet, comfortable, relaxing, and beautiful views," notes Sarah, who adds, "Almost no light pollution at night, I've never seen the Milky Way like this before!"
Water activities beyond the main lake: Rocky Mountain Hi Campground features creek access perfect for families. "We used today as a catch up day. We're on the road for over a month and this was an unscheduled day. We happened upon Rocky Mtn Hi and the kids and I love it. The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek," shares Jennifer H.
Train viewing for enthusiasts: Whitefish Lake State Park Campground offers a unique experience for train enthusiasts. "Fun for the kids to see from the lake at 3pm," mentions Henry H. The park provides lake access while being situated near active train tracks that run throughout the day and night.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: North American RV Park & Yurt Village offers thoughtfully designed sites with vegetation barriers. "We got a prized corner spot with privacy of trees. So nice to have a grassy site, too," writes Melody C., who appreciated the "quiet and peaceful" setting despite some minimal highway noise.
Winter yurt camping options: Several glamping locations around Dayton, Montana remain open during winter months. "I would be cautious about bringing any large campers to this area but the tent sites are nice," writes Angela G. about Whitefish Lake State Park, noting it's "probably one of the best places to camp to get out to Whitefish to ski."
Reasonable tent camping rates: Smaller, less expensive glamping options exist throughout the region. "Tent sites were very reasonable at $20, just two more dollars than the Forest Service campground down the road which does not have flush toilets or showers," reports Dexter I. about Swan Lake Trading Post & Campground.
What you should know
Cell service varies widely: Coverage depends on your carrier and location. At Rollins RV Park, "The wifi is really really good, can even watch football on Sundays," according to Blake C., who notes it's "absolutely perfect and in a very central location."
Train noise affects sleep quality: Sites near railroad tracks experience significant noise disturbances. "If you are a light sleeper there is a train track near by and you will hear a couple trains," Maddy D. warns, while Emily F. adds, "Trains pass through regularly, all night long. It was so close that our tent shook!"
Limited dining options with restricted hours: Many glamping locations have on-site food options but with specific schedules. "There's a restaurant on-site, but it has limited days and hours. The food was excellent, but it's like being in the UK, where you order everything yourself," notes Brian C. about Rollins RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Glacier Campground provides facilities specifically designed for families. "This popular campground is only one mile from the entrance to Glacier NP which makes it a good base camp when exploring and day hiking in the park," explains Heidi C., who appreciated the convenience to the national park.
Water activities for children: Swan Lake Trading Post & Campground offers unique pond-side camping. "This small campground packs a tremendous punch! RVs, rustic cabins, two yurts, and pondside tent sites - there are no defined tent sites; anywhere along the pond perimeter is fair game," explains Taryn S.
Arcade and playground access: Multiple resorts offer entertainment options beyond outdoor activities. North American RV Park features "a dog park and a little playground for kids. Laundry room and bath houses were very clean. Also has an arcade and loved how they use honesty policy during closed hours," according to Danielle F.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup considerations: Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast provides various site types with different amenities. "Be sure and ask if your site will be paved, some are, ours wasn't. If it is raining, pine straw sticks to shoes and gets everywhere in unpaved sites," advises Ann F.
Road noise concerns: Many RV parks in the area sit near highways. "This is a nice convenient place to stay close to glacier but we were disappointed by how much high way noise there is even through the night," notes Dan S. about Moose Creek RV Resort.
Full hookup availability: Rocky Mountain Hi Campground offers comprehensive RV services. "Full hookup sites, big rig friendly, and great location. Office staff is friendly and helpful. Good nightly rate for the area," states Joseph H., highlighting the value compared to other locations in the region.
