Best Campgrounds near Olney, MT
The Flathead National Forest surrounding Olney, Montana provides diverse camping experiences ranging from established campgrounds to remote dispersed sites. Tally Lake Campground, approximately 15 miles southwest of Olney, offers tent and RV camping with basic amenities including drinking water and vault toilets. Upper Whitefish Lake Campground provides a more secluded experience with lakefront sites, while Stillwater Lake features dispersed camping options with minimal facilities. The region's proximity to Glacier National Park (about 30 miles east) makes it a strategic basecamp for exploring both national forest and park lands, with options spanning from primitive tent sites to full-service RV resorts in nearby Whitefish and West Glacier.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many forest service roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain or during spring runoff. As one camper noted, "The road from Whitefish Lake is rough and only graded as needed. When coming from Olney the lower part of the road is washboarded but not horrible." Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through September or early October, with winter access limited by snow. Bear activity is common throughout the region, necessitating proper food storage in all camping areas. Cell service becomes increasingly limited as distance from towns increases, with many remote sites having no connectivity.
Wildlife viewing opportunities rank highly in camper reviews, with deer, moose, and occasional bear sightings reported at many locations. The crystal-clear lakes are consistently praised, with one visitor describing Upper Whitefish Lake as "enchanting. The water so clear you can see the bottom as the fish swim by." Fishing, boating, and swimming access are available at most lakeside campgrounds, though amenities vary widely. Campground hosts at established sites like Tally Lake receive positive mentions for their helpfulness and local knowledge. Campers frequently note the need to arrive early during peak summer months, as the most desirable waterfront sites fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
