Kalispell sits at 2,956 feet elevation in northwest Montana's Flathead Valley, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 45-85°F. The region's camping season generally runs from May through September, though some campgrounds remain accessible year-round. Winter camping opportunities exist but require proper cold-weather gear as temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
River recreation access: Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed Camping offers direct river access for swimming and watching rafters. "The river was great to swim in for a little cold plunge. This might have been our best campsite on our two week road trip," notes Joshua M., who appreciated the natural riverside setting.
Horse activities: Camp Whispering Pines provides accommodations for equestrians, with convenient access to nearby horse events. "5 minutes to Rebecca Farms, 20 minutes to Under The Big Sky Venue, 20 minutes to Flathead and Whitefish Lakes, 40 minutes to Glacier National Park... Corrals for horses 20 acres and an arena to stretch out," explains Charles Y.
Early morning wildlife viewing: Arrive early at Apgar Campground for better wildlife encounters. "If you don't like crowds get up as early as you can. You see lots more animals that way too!" advises Kirsten R., highlighting one of the advantages of staying inside Glacier National Park.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing. "And the night sky is marvelous. The shower was very well thought out: great water pressure, endless heat, and an open roof to stare up at the stars," shares Daniel C. about his experience at Camp Whispering Pines.
What campers like
Private sites: Glacier Campground offers more secluded sites than many other options. "Sites are shady. The cafe serves a good quality and imaginative menu. Hang out at the lodge for WiFi," explains Annie B., who appreciated the balance between amenities and natural setting.
Hot showers: Campers consistently praise shower facilities at several locations. "The shower is amazing! Instant hot water for as long as you'd like," reports Taylor C. about Camp Whispering Pines, while John T. notes that Columbia Falls RV Park offers "Clean site, bathrooms, laundry and a well needed HOT shower!"
Free riverside camping: Blankenship Bridge provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Beautiful beach side or individual sites. Super clean porta potty. Off road to access - need 4WD if real muddy. Not easy access for campers," explains Jessica A., highlighting both the appeal and limitations of this dispersed site.
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families. "Great place to camp with children because of the large, grassy playground and swimming area. Showers and a laundry are on site," observes Kimberly Y. about Rocky Mountain Hi Campground.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Deep rutted muddy holes filled with water to get to site. Sketchy low trees and narrow road," warns David R. about Blankenship Bridge, while another visitor noted, "Road has huge and I mean huge puddles."
Reservation timing: During peak summer months, secure reservations well in advance at established campgrounds. "Best bet is to get to the campground early in the morning to get a spot as it is first come first serve and fills up pretty quickly," advises Jodi P. about Apgar Campground.
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds near Kalispell remain open year-round. Columbia Falls RV Park offers "Nice gravel and grass area with picnic table" and "Very clean, nice tile and spacious" bathroom facilities that remain open through winter months.
Proximity to town: Several campgrounds provide good balance between nature and services. "Peaceful and convenient (town is about 4 miles)," mentions Marlo C. about Camp Whispering Pines, while another camper notes you're "minutes to Kalispell and a wide variety of food and drink options."
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin options: When temperatures fluctuate, cabins provide comfort for families. "Grinnell Cabin is set on the eastern edge of the campground and on the edge of a beautiful meadow. The full moon rose over the meadow and the sunrise was magical the next morning," describes Tucker B. at Rocky Mountain Hi Campground.
Look for activity areas: Campgrounds with dedicated play spaces offer entertainment for children. "The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek, volleyball net and paved roads to scooter and roller blade," shares Jennifer H. about Rocky Mountain Hi.
Check site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. "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," explains another camper who appreciated the family-friendly layout.
Consider wildlife safety: When camping with pets or children, be aware of wildlife. "If you love a night out away from everything, check it out! Sit by the fire, relax and enjoy the beautiful night sky above you!!!" recommends Jake H. about Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Look for sites with adequate size and shade. "Spacing is great with trees in-between you. Full Hookups, picnic bench, recessed firepit," notes Sandy G. about Rocky Mountain Hi Campground.
Water pressure considerations: RVers report good utilities at several campgrounds. "Full hookup sites, big rig friendly, and great location. Office staff is friendly and helpful. Good nightly rate for the area," shares Joseph H. about Rocky Mountain Hi.
Accessibility for large rigs: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "Big rigs not recommended. Pulled out Alliance Valor 32A10 down the horrible access road. Had to do a walk around after to verify no damage," warns Timothy M. about Blankenship Bridge, contrasting with campgrounds like West Glacier KOA Resort that offer "Good size spaces, walking path around the whole campground."
Seasonal considerations: Note that some pet-friendly camping near Kalispell, Montana follows seasonal patterns. "Clean, shaded, and spots not terribly close like other RV parks. River views but not good spot for fishing. Very close to Glacier and amenities," explains Nina C. about Spruce Park On The River, which operates seasonally.
