The Flathead Lake region sits at approximately 2,900 feet elevation with a moderate mountain climate characterized by warm summer days averaging 80°F and cool nights dropping to the 50s. RV camping near Lakeside, Montana provides access to the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, covering 197 square miles with 185 miles of shoreline. Summer water temperatures reach the mid-70s, creating ideal conditions for water recreation from June through September.
What to do
Fishing the reservoir: Access Hungry Horse Reservoir from Lid Creek Campground where mountain views and water access combine for excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake, Salish Mountains and Montana's big sky are all front and center here. Lid Creek is 15 miles off U.S. 2 on a very winding but paved road," notes camper Bob R.
Boat rentals: RV parks in Lakeside provide equipment for water activities. At Rollins RV Park, one camper mentioned, "We rented a pontoon boat from the rv park and explored the lake. The boat rental for a whole day is equivalent to a 4 hour rental near Spokane. Great prices." Rentals typically cost $200-300 per day depending on boat size.
Local food exploration: The Lakeside area features local food options within short drives of most campgrounds. "We got some ice cream" in historic downtown Bigfork, reports Julia M. from Outback Montana RV Park. "There is a brewery and restaurant close by. The Gunsight restaurant in downtown Columbia Falls is a must, especially on Taco Tues," recommends another camper.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots despite being near popular attractions. Kelsey B. from Mountain Meadow RV Park describes, "We lucked out with site #50 though, it was very secluded and the picnic firepit area was like our own little cubby in the woods."
Clean facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the maintenance standards at Lakeside area RV parks. "Bathrooms were amazing! 2 large stalls and 3 large showers, 1 was handicap. Very clean, nice tile and spacious," reports Kimberly W. about Columbia Falls RV Park. Another camper notes, "Bathrooms/showers are some of the best I've ever seen."
Mountain views: Camping in the Lakeside region provides scenic vistas from many sites. "There are lots of opportunities to make new friends. You are close to your neighbors... Beautiful mountain views are a big plus for us," says Nancy C. The elevated position of some campgrounds provides panoramic views of surrounding mountains.
What you should know
Variable campsite sizes: Many RV parks have limitations on site dimensions and levelness. At Clyde's Camp, a smaller campground, Sean L. states it was "Simple, clean, quite. I stayed in this brand new wooded park for two nights in July. Parking my truck was easy and getting into town was quick."
Water access considerations: While many campgrounds advertise lake access, actual waterfront may require short walks. "Lake access is a just short walk down a trail. There is a great rock beach with plenty of room for kids to play and splash," explains Elizabeth N. about Lid Creek.
Reservation timing: Peak season (June-August) fills quickly at most RV parks in the Lakeside area. "We were thrilled to meet the owner Nate and be the first campers at this new campground!" notes Matthew W., highlighting the importance of early bookings, especially for newer facilities with limited capacity.
Utilities reliability: Water and power availability varies by location. "There is NO WATER available at the campground so bring your own or you'll be frustrated," warns a Lid Creek visitor. Check specific amenities when booking as some locations require self-sufficiency.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some Lakeside area RV parks offer dedicated play areas. As Brian C. shares about Rollins RV Park, "One of the best things about the park is the great playground for kids. Our kids loved it!" Facilities with playgrounds provide entertainment options during downtime between excursions.
Swimming areas: Wild Horse RV Resort and similar facilities offer access to swimming areas suitable for children. While specific reviews for swimming are limited, most lakefront campgrounds feature designated swimming zones with gradual entry points.
Activity planning: Allow extra travel time when staying outside immediate Lakeside area. "West Glacier is about 45 minutes away and a very easy drive from Lid Creek Campground," notes a visitor, highlighting the need to plan driving time for day trips to popular attractions.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require substantial leveling equipment. "Our site was not very level front to back and side to side, and though we got close, we couldn't get fully level," reports Ray & Terri F. about Mountain Meadow RV Park. Bring extra leveling blocks for campsites throughout the region.
Road navigation: Access roads to many RV parks involve multiple turns and potential challenges. "The road down to the campground is gravel, lots of tight turns but generally in good shape; we did just fine towing our 30 ft travel trailer," reports a Lid Creek visitor. Another camper at Columbia Falls RV Park notes, "Easy in/out, clean, spotless bathrooms/showers. Close quarters, especially if you and your neighbor have slide outs."
Site selection tips: Request sites away from entrance roads for less traffic noise. "The sites across the back(11-16) seem roomier and more offset than the rest," suggests an RVer who stayed at Mountain Meadow, providing specific site recommendations for larger rigs.
