Several RV parks near Kalispell, Montana provide convenient access to Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley region. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F during peak season. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few facilities remaining open year-round when temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Explore Hungry Horse Reservoir: Located near Mountain Meadow RV Park and Cabins, this recreational area offers boating and fishing opportunities. "We were there to visit Glacier National Park but unfortunately it was very bad timing due to forest fires and much of the park was closed. We were there near end of August 2018," notes one visitor who found alternative activities when park access was limited.
Visit Whitefish: This charming mountain town is accessible from most area campgrounds. "Whitefish (really cute walkable town) Hungry Horse Reservoir, and lots of other tourist activities" are within easy reach according to a camper at Mountain View RV Park, who also recommends "Montana Distillery is close by in Coram and a good brewery/restaurant in Columbia Falls."
Family entertainment: The area offers numerous activities beyond national park visits. "Lots to do and see," reports a visitor at North American RV Park. Another camper details, "Close by is a zip line attraction with a blow up slide in water for the little ones and bounce house obstacle with a slide. Also an adventure park that has go karts, bumper cars, lazy river etc."
What campers like
Convenient basecamp locations: Most RV parks serve as strategic bases for exploring the region. "Great location with Mountain View's all around. Beautifully manicured sites with trees that are starting to gain size for shade," writes a guest at Columbia Falls RV Park. Another mentions it's "walking distance to a fun coffee shop. There is often a farmers market in Columbia Falls."
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds receive praise for their washrooms. "Bathrooms were amazing! 2 large stalls and 3 large showers, 1 was handicap. Very clean, nice tile and spacious," notes a Columbia Falls RV Park visitor. Similarly, a guest at LaSalle RV Park states, "The private showers are wonderful! There are four, each with a toilet, sink, vanity and huge shower. They're kept clean."
Outdoor amenities: Parks offer various recreational options on-site. "Super nice owner and her son. Place is clean and well kept. Right off the center of town. Great pull through sites," says a camper at Whitefish RV Park. At 3 Bears Campground and RV Park, visitors appreciate that "the stream next to the tent sites is nice" and mention the presence of "swings but nothing spectacular."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. "We stayed here while visiting glacier NP. The sites are very close together but still very nice. It's tough turns for bigger rigs though," notes a visitor to Mountain Meadow RV Park and Cabins, which operates from May 1 to October 1.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run through the area, affecting multiple campgrounds. At Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort, a camper mentions, "We didn't like the trains, but every park has the same issue. Ear plugs and or white noise machine and you are all good."
Site spacing: Many reviewers note proximity between campsites. "The sites were very, very small and someone was always having to move their vehicle to allow someone else to have the room to back into their spot," writes a Beargrass Lodging visitor. Another camper observes that RV parks in this area tend to "pack people in" with sites that "feel a little close together."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer kid-friendly facilities. "Great dog park, kids area ok, walking distance to store," notes a visitor to North American RV Park & Yurt Village. Another family enjoyed that "it has a playground for kids."
Swimming options: Some campgrounds provide water recreation. "Kids loved swimming in the heated pool. Clean bathroom and showers," reports a Beargrass Lodging guest, with another noting the pool was "very nicely maintained but overchlorinated to the point of burning your eyes."
Alternative accommodations: Beyond standard RV sites, families can find unique lodging. "Stayed in a yurt for a week. Loved the vibe of the campground. Free coffee was a life saver for early rising to get into the park at 6am," shares a North American RV Park visitor who appreciated the flexible options for larger groups.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between parks. At Mountain View RV Park, full hookups include 50-amp service but note that fires aren't allowed. One camper mentions, "Site was level and just enough space for trailer and truck (a bit crowded but worked), full sun, no shade and a picnic table. Splitter on the water spiket provided."
Accessibility concerns: Some parks have challenging access for larger rigs. "Easy in/out, clean, spotless bathrooms/showers. Close quarters, especially if you and your neighbor have slide outs," reports a visitor to Columbia Falls RV Park, who recommends getting "a spot in the back" for more quiet.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and WiFi quality vary. At Mountain View RV Park, "The wifi was a tad slow, but for the most part worked pretty good. Hotspot on cell for video calls and Netflix though," with T-Mobile reported as "ok" for coverage. Another camper mentions, "AT&T service was just ok" at the same location.
