Tent camping near Polson, Montana offers experiences around Flathead Lake with several additional camping areas in the Mission Valley and surrounding mountains. Campsites range from primitive shoreline spots to more developed areas at elevations between 2,800 and 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during July and August, with occasional thunderstorms requiring proper rain gear for tent campers.
What to do
Swimming and fishing: Ashley Lake South Campground features exceptionally clear waters for both activities. "Ashley Lake never disappoints. The camp sites are a bit rough to get too but as long as you're tent camping or have a very small and agile pull behind you'll be okay," notes one camper at this location 40 miles northwest of Polson.
Paddle sports: Holland Lake Boating Site caters to non-motorized watercraft. "We use this area a lot. The boat launch is definitely not for larger boats, so there's not a lot of the chaos associated with type places. Parking is good, and it's easy to get to the restrooms," according to one visitor.
Hiking: From Kreis Pond Campground, access nearby trails like Sleeping Woman. "Neat, fun area especially with the Sleeping Woman hike so close. Once you drive up the mountain, the trailhead is off to the left and it's a heavy incline to the top so be prepared with lots of water and an awesome view at the end," writes one camper.
What campers like
Small, secluded campgrounds: Kreis Pond offers just seven sites around a small mountain pond. A camper shares: "7 well spaced campsites all around the pond. Truly enjoyable stay. Clean toilet facilities. Be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road."
Lake access: Ashley Lake South Campground provides direct lake access for tent campers. "We camped there and had the best time, we were there Monday to Thursday and saw about 3 others camped there. The lake is crystal clear and the campground is very clean."
Unique accommodations: For those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping, Off The Beaten Path Glampground offers more comfortable options. "Nice large tent sites. They also have a geodesic dome you can rent," notes a visitor, providing options beyond standard tent camping near Polson.
What you should know
Limited availability: Ashley Lake South Campground has very few sites. "There are only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there," warns a camper, suggesting midweek visits increase chances of finding an open site.
Seasonal conditions: Most tent campgrounds around Polson operate from late spring through early fall. Kreis Pond Campground is available "May to December 1," though early and late season camping may face colder temperatures.
Permit requirements: Some camping areas near Polson require special permits. North Crow Creek has specific regulations: "This campground was difficult to find online so we drove out anyways. Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Tips for camping with families
Basic amenities: Many tent camping sites near Polson provide only minimal facilities. Mere's Magic Trout Pond offers some conveniences: "The porta potty was the cleanest one I've ever been to. You have to fill up your own water for the shower. There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond."
Water activities: Holland Lake Boating Site offers safe paddling conditions. "If you are going to paddle or swim you will love this lake. But if you want to boat or jet ski you will have a challenging time putting in or taking out," notes a camper, making this spot better for families with younger children.
Weekend crowds: Smaller campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Kreis Pond, a reviewer notes: "Great secret camping spot. There's only about 5 spots and summer will be crowded when it's hot and awesome weather! Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Polson don't accommodate large RVs. Mission Meadows RV Campground offers some hookup options but with limitations: "Campground is no frills, but beautiful mountain views and fairly quiet. 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."
Access challenges: Many roads to tent camping locations around Polson are unpaved and rough. Ashley Lake South's access is particularly difficult: "The camp sites are a bit rough to get too but as long as you're tent camping or have a very small and agile pull behind you'll be okay."
Seasonal facilities: Most RV dump stations close during winter months. Mission Meadows notes that while camping may be available, "the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan," requiring planning for self-contained camping near Polson.
