Dispersed camping options near Olney, Montana extend beyond the Flathead National Forest into surrounding public lands and National Forest areas. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F. Winter camping remains possible in lower elevations, though access becomes increasingly difficult after October when snowfall begins accumulating on forest service roads.
What to do
Lake activities: Paddle at Upper Whitefish Lake, where the water clarity allows you to see fish swimming below your boat. A visitor describes the experience: "The Lake itself is enchanting. The water so clear you can see the bottom as the fish swim by. You will often encounter deer, moose and of course the occasional bear" (Upper Whitefish Campground).
Cliff jumping: Try the popular spots at Tally Lake Campground, where numerous campers mention this activity. One camper notes: "Great place, volleyball court and pavillion. Can get extremely busy though. Great cliff jumping!" Another simply states it's their "favorite lake to cliff jump."
River rafting: Watch or join rafters on the Flathead River. At North Fork Flathead River Dispersed Camping, a camper reports: "We were able to park on the beach, right on the flathead river and watch the rafters go by." Boating access makes it a popular entry point for water activities throughout summer months.
Winter camping: Access Glacier National Park in colder months from Whitefish Lake State Park. A camper suggests: "if you are into winter camping this is probably one of the best places to camp to get out to Whitefish to ski." The park remains open year-round, providing a strategic base for winter recreation.
What campers like
Clear waterways: Swimming in crystal lakes that maintain good visibility. One visitor to North fork Flathead River notes: "The River was perfect for cooling off after being in the sun." Campers consistently mention water quality and temperature as highlights in summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Bear aware camping offers sighting opportunities. A camper at Stillwater Lake reports: "There is a lot of wildlife (eagles, moose mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk)." Wildlife sightings are more common during early morning and evening hours across most campgrounds in the region.
Star viewing: Night skies without light pollution create memorable experiences. At the North Fork Flathead River camping area, a visitor describes: "At night, it clears out and that's when the magic happens. The stars are so bright and the Milky Way seems so close you could touch it." Clear skies are most reliable between July and September.
Convenience: Quick access to Glacier National Park saves travel time. One camper staying at Blankenship Bridge mentioned: "We stayed here to have quick access to Glacier National Park" and found the location "breathtaking" despite road challenges.
What you should know
Road conditions: High clearance vehicles recommended for most dispersed sites. At Middle Fork Flathead River, a camper warns: "Road has huge and I mean huge puddles. Very tight fit for truck and trailer for sure in a lot of the spots." Road maintenance typically occurs in early summer but conditions deteriorate throughout the season.
Train noise: Railway proximity affects sleep at some campgrounds. At Whitefish Lake State Park, campers consistently mention train disturbances: "Despite being near houses and a load train route - and on the smaller side of things - this campground makes the most of it." Another camper notes trains pass "constantly."
Early arrival: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Fish Creek Campground advises: "Though recreation.gov indicates that the campground is full, there were sites that were open, either from cancellation or no shows." Weekday arrivals before 11am typically offer the best chance for securing desirable sites.
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely by location and carrier. A Middle Fork camper reports: "Good cell service with AT&T," while others mention spotty or no service in more remote locations. Most established campgrounds near towns maintain at least partial service.
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: Reserve sites with shared amenities at Tally Lake where group camping includes added features. One visitor shares: "Stayed at the group pavilion with family. Great set up near bathrooms, creek with bridge and trail to a small beach. Short drive and hike to some cliffs to jump off of."
Activity rentals: Gear available on-site at many locations. A camper at Fish Creek Campground mentions: "You can buy firewood in nearby Apgar Village, where there are also restaurants, coffee shops, kayak rentals and more." Rental prices for kayaks typically run $25-35 per hour.
Educational programs: Attend ranger-led events when available. A visitor notes: "Enjoyed the nightly ranger programs" at Fish Creek Campground. These programs typically run 30-45 minutes and cover wildlife, geology, and history topics suitable for all ages.
Campsite selection: Look for sites away from water if mosquitoes are a concern. One camper at Tally Lake Campground suggests choosing campsites that are "far enough away (not right on the water like 34) to lessen the mosquitos." Bug activity is highest from June through August, particularly around dusk.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most sites offer limited services with few full-hookup options. A camper at Glacier Campground explains: "There is water and electricity, but not full hookups. They do have a dump station though."
Site dimensions: Confirm capacity before arrival as many areas have size restrictions. At Fish Creek Campground, a visitor explains: "I was reluctant to reserve a site at Fish Creek Campground because they are mostly pull-in, and very few back-ins... RVs or vehicle combination longer then 21 feet or 8 feet wide with the mirrors are allowed in this campground."
Road access: Plan routes carefully for larger vehicles. A Blankenship Bridge camper warns: "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." Most forest service roads become increasingly challenging after heavy rain.
Extension cords: Pack longer power connections than standard equipment. One RVer at Glacier Campground advises: "Make sure you bring an extension cord to hook up your electric just in case you have a short standard cord on your camper." Power pedestals can be located up to 25 feet from parking areas.
