Dispersed camping options near Polebridge, Montana provide access to the less-traveled northern section of Glacier National Park. The camping areas along this section of Flathead National Forest sit at elevations between 3,500-5,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. Most roads in the region remain closed until late May or early June due to snowpack, and nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing even in summer months.
What to do
Kayaking at Stillwater Lake: The lake offers excellent flat-water paddling with mountain views. "Gorgeous views, very non-tourist feeling and a great lake to kayak in," notes one visitor to Stillwater Lake.
Hiking nearby trails: Red Meadow Lake area provides access to the Pacific Northwest Trail and other hiking paths. According to a camper at Red Meadow Lake, "Red Meadow Lake is a small lake with only few camping spots, very remote and peaceful. Fishing on the lake is good, summer swimming and kayaking. Most of the camping spots have fire rings and food safe boxes. Perfect location for star gazing at night and the PNW Trail run close by."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including eagles, moose, mountain lions, and beavers. A camper at Stillwater Lake observed: "There is a lot of wildlife (eagles, moose mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk)."
What campers like
River access: Many camping areas feature direct access to the North Fork of the Flathead River. A camper at North Fork Flathead River dispersed camping shared, "Buddy and I stayed here for three days and enjoyed every bit of it. Site is about 3 miles past the end of the pavement. I made it in my Kia Soul, so anyone should be good haha!"
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution makes the area excellent for stargazing. A camper at Blankenship Bridge noted, "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."
Quiet surroundings: Most campsites offer peaceful settings away from crowds. One visitor wrote about Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed, "We kept on going past the main beach to the tree covered area and found our slice of heaven. Less crowded but still with river access."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require slow driving and high clearance. A visitor to McGinnis Creek shared, "First few miles of McGinnis Creek rd are open all year. After that, the gates are closed until July 1st. There are about 5 spots for bigger trailers. We managed to find a spot on a side road before the gates, that fit our 32' travel trailer."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. One camper reported: "No phone service (should be obvious though)," while another noted, "Verizon and tmobile service but only 1 to 2 bars."
Seasonal closures: Many roads and facilities close during winter months. A visitor explained: "The road is rough but next to the river. Nothing fancy at all but quiet and relaxing."
Tips for camping with families
Bring water supplies: No potable water exists at most sites. Pack extra or bring filtration. "Bring your own water and/or water filter. There can be a lot of mosquitos in the summer so be prepared!"
Pit toilets only: Most areas feature only basic bathroom facilities. "There is one vaulted toilet, no other amenities," notes a visitor at North Fork Flathead River dispersed camping.
Bear safety precautions: Bear activity is common, especially during berry season. A camper at Ryan Road Dispersed Camping observed: "Located close to the west entrance, this dispersed camping location is quiet and easily accessible to most vehicles. It did fill up, so get there early. Mosquitos were pretty bad."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most rustic camping near Polebridge has limited space for large rigs. "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. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV."
Arrival timing: Arrive early for limited big-rig compatible sites. "I'm in a camper van and had no issues accessing the site. Dirt road, but very passable leading here. Large 30+' motorhomes here, too."
Avoid boat launch congestion: Some river access points serve dual purposes. "We had originally parked in the spot by the water, assumed it was a spot as there is no signage and there was a fire pit next to it. We were informed that it's an unofficial boat launch so we moved to one of the other spots."
