Tent camping around Lakeside, Montana offers diverse environments from shoreline sites to forested mountain retreats. The area sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August. Morning fog often rolls off Flathead Lake during spring and fall camping, creating cooler morning temperatures that require layered clothing.
What to do
Swimming in crystal waters: Yellow Bay State Park Campground features exceptionally clear water perfect for swimming. A camper noted, "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. There is a roped off public swim area, along with a small boat dock nearby."
Mountain biking nearby: Whitefish Bike Retreat offers access to extensive trail networks. A reviewer mentioned, "Nearby Whitefish, MT has a growing reputation for fantastic trails, hikes and mountain bike areas, and this full-service oasis takes advantage of all of it. There's a bike skills area, trails for all levels…all intertwined with the Beaver Lake series of trails and small lakes."
Fishing from shore: Many dispersed camping areas provide direct lake access for fishing. At Yellow Bay, one camper commented, "The rocks are gorgeous and it was a wonderful place to fish!" The clear waters around Flathead Lake support several trout species and northern pike.
What campers like
Lakeside proximity: Ryan Road Dispersed Camping offers free sites with close access to Glacier National Park. A visitor shared, "This is a good spot for smaller rv's or tents... This spot is only about 5 minutes down the road from the West entrance to Glacier National Park."
Stream sounds: Camping areas with water features provide natural noise barriers. One camper at Yellow Bay noticed, "There is a small stream running along the side of the campground before dumping into Flathead Lake just 200 yards away." These water sounds help minimize traffic noise.
Dark night skies: Remote dispersed camping areas away from towns provide excellent stargazing. According to one visitor at Blankenship Bridge, "The location is breathtaking. A beautiful location, lakeside access, incredible night skies, easy access via 30min driving to the west side of Glacier NP."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating rough roads. A camper at Blankenship Bridge warned, "Deep rutted muddy holes filled with water to get to site. Sketchy low trees and narrow road." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many remote sites.
Campsite availability strategy: Most tent camping spots fill quickly during peak season. One camper at Ashley Lake South Campground advised, "There are only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there."
Bear safety measures: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. A visitor at Hungry Horse Reservoir warned, "No food in the camping areas due to wildlife." Bear spray and proper food storage are essential for tent camping throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water features: Shallow swimming areas provide safe recreation. A camper noted about Yellow Bay: "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."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Whitefish Bike Retreat offers facilities designed for cyclists of all ages. A reviewer mentioned, "Bike trails for all abilities and ages. The owners are so rad. A family business and they make you feel part of the tribe."
Wheelbarrows for gear transport: Some sites provide equipment to help with setup. At Yellow Bay, a camper shared, "There are 6 spots, all just 25 yards from a parking area. There is a wheelbarrow for moving your items if you need it."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. A camper at Hungry Horse Reservoir advised, "This is a good spot for smaller rv's or tents but any spot I seen for rv larger than 30' was taken or really not available."
Private spacing: Some areas offer more separation between sites. At Ryan Road Dispersed Camping, one RVer noted, "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV. We chose the very last site before the gate leading back to the Ryan air strip."
Uneven terrain challenges: Level parking can be difficult to find. One camper at Mission Meadows RV Campground observed, "There are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven. The best spots are W&E, and the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan."
