Tent camping near Kalispell, Montana places campers within 30 miles of Glacier National Park, where temperatures can vary dramatically with elevation changes from 3,000 to over 10,000 feet. Many dispersed sites in the area sit on rocky terrain with limited or no facilities, requiring campers to plan for proper waste disposal and water needs. Access roads to most campsites aren't maintained regularly, creating seasonal challenges after rain or during early spring melt.
What to do
Kayaking on crystal waters: Ashley Lake South Campground provides direct lake access with remarkably clear water. "We camped there and had the best time... The lake is crystal clear and the campground is very clean," notes Brigitt M. about her Ashley Lake South Campground experience.
Bike trail exploration: The Whitefish Bike Retreat connects to multiple trail networks with equipment rentals available. "This is an amazing camp ground! With bikes for rent. Along with paddle boards. Bike trails for all abilities and ages," reports The N. about their stay at Whitefish Bike Retreat.
Riverside camping: Sites along the North Fork of the Flathead River provide water access with mountain views. "We stayed here to have quick access to Glacier National Park... There are plentiful sites, some with fire rings, many spots for car or van campers to park near the beautiful river," shares Tracy W. about Blankenship Bridge camping.
Backcountry hiking: Trails from Bowman Lake Campground range from shoreline walks to more challenging mountain routes. "There are trailheads right next to the lake shore, with varying distances and difficulties to choose from," explains Lora C. about camping at Bowman Lake.
What campers like
Lakeside solitude: Yellow Bay State Park Campground offers tent-only sites near water. "The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim," reports Todd M. about Yellow Bay State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide chances to see native animals. "Saw multiple deer, various birds, a grizzly on way in... The ranger was super nice, too," shares Max K. about camping at Bowman Lake Campground.
Easy national park access: Several camping areas function as base camps for day trips into Glacier. "This spot is perfect for me and my Kia Soul on a forest service road outside west glacier... Quite busy, but spacious enough to feel private," notes Tristan S. about Ryan Road Dispersed Camping.
Pet-friendly options: Some locations specifically welcome four-legged campers. "This spot is it! Right on a clear river... Dog friendly and safe, I'm a female traveling on my own with my dog," explains Faye N. about her Blankenship Bridge experience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many campsites require navigating rough terrain. "The road in was narrow. Glad I didn't have any problems with on coming riggs," explains Edward about his 21-foot trailer at Ryan Road Dispersed Camping.
Site availability fluctuates seasonally: Forest Service roads may close without notice. "Closed for Logging, the signs say closed for logging so I assume that's also for walking up to the site," reported Sophia P. about temporary closures.
Water access varies by location: Not all sites with water views have easy shoreline access. "It can get a bit windy later in the day but it's still beautiful," shares Denyel B. about Ashley Lake conditions.
Campground sizes differ greatly: Some locations have very limited capacity. "There are only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there," notes Emily T. about Ashley Lake South Campground's limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Safety with children: Bring proper storage containers for food and waste. "No food in the camping areas due to wildlife. Communal area for cooking, eating and campfire," advises Lindy D. about SpiritWorks Herb Farm Campground.
Water activities for kids: Look for campsites with shallow water access. "The lake is crystal clear and the campground is very clean," mentions Brigitt M. about Ashley Lake South Campground's water quality.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs or wildlife viewing. "We didn't see any bears, but deer frequent the campsites, sniffing around the fire pits, searching for food, and they're not scared of people," reports Lora C. about Bowman Lake Campground.
Bug protection essentials: Certain sites have significant insect activity. "This campground is so quiet and beautiful, but the mosquitos will about drive you nuts... Bring bug spray (but not citronella; that attracts bears)," warns Lora C. about camping at Bowman Lake.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many roads need higher clearance vehicles. "Deep rutted muddy holes filled with water to get to site. Sketchy low trees and narrow road. Decided not to risk it in my van," cautions David R. about Blankenship Bridge.
Generator restrictions: Understand rules before arriving. "We were asked to turn our generator off by our neighbors but were told it can be ran during daylight hours from staff," shares Katie O. about Whitefish Bike Retreat policies.
RV length limitations: Consider overall vehicle length for narrow roads. "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There's a slightly rough dirt road to get to the camp spots," explains Kristen about successfully navigating Ryan Road with a large trailer.
Distance calculations: Allow extra travel time on unpaved roads. "37 miles from Hungry Horse to this location, almost 25 of the unpaved and some of the road is really rough and extremely narrow," warns Steve M. about accessing Hungry Horse Reservoir dispersed camping.
