Best Camping near Kalispell, MT

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Kalispell, MT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Kalispell is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Kalispell and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Kalispell, MT (238)

    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    1. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    55 Reviews
    186 Photos
    500 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Apgar Campground is situated on the southern tip of Lake McDonald in beautiful Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana. Pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes are found throughout the park. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for hikers seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in the natural beauty of the park.

    Recreation

    Lake McDonald provides great opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing and fishing in its cold mountain waters. A variety of fish are found in the lake, including cutthroat, rainbow, bull and lake trout, whitefish and Kokanee salmon.The campground is conveniently close to many trailheads for day hikes, including Apgar Lookout Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail leading up to a fire lookout with breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. The Apgar Bike Path, a paved 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail popular for walking and biking, leads to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center and Village. Horseback ride reservations, boat rentals, shuttle service and Red Bus Tour reservations are available here.One of the most amazing highlights of Glacier National Park is a drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which travels past the campground. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles (80 km) through the park's wild interior, winding around mountainsides and treating visitors to some of the best sights in northwest Montana.

    Natural Features

    Apgar is located in a dense forest on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1067 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 degrees, although it is frequently 10 to 15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer. Visitors should come prepared for anything.The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as Harlequin ducks, Dippers and Golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    2. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    210 Photos
    486 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Fish Creek Campground is the second largest campground in Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana, is comprised of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles (1,125 km) of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in its natural beauty. The campground is located on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1,066 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 F (32 C), although it is frequently 10 to 15 F cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer; visitors should come prepared for anything.

    Recreation

    This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

    Natural Features

    Fish Creek is heavily forested with plenty of shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton. Waterton Lakes National Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort

    3. West Glacier KOA Resort

    46 Reviews
    96 Photos
    216 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Pine-scented campsites here are a mere 2.5 miles from Glacier National Park's west entrance. A short drive of a few minutes brings you to the start of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road that twists and climbs across the million-acre alpine preserve. Whitefish, Kalispell, and Flathead lake are within driving distance to explore for part of a day with plenty of time left to relax at this KOA. This KOA also offers a heated adult (18+) pool 2 adult (18+) hot tubs and a heated family (all ages) pool. Enjoy our Lazy Bear Breakfast or Dinner restaurants, as well as our Bearstream Bar and Bear Garden. You can treat yourself to huckleberry ice cream at Scoops Ice Cream Shop or head to the state's largest water park in nearby Columbia Falls.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground

    4. Glacier Campground

    49 Reviews
    138 Photos
    426 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Glacier Campground is located just one mile from the west entrance of Glacier National Park and is the closest privately owned campground to the park, known for “the way camping used to be!” Our heavily wooded 40 acre campground is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest. West Glacier Village provides many activities including golf, mini golf, shopping, rafting, horseback rides and helicopter tours. There are also many options for great local dining. Outdoor lovers will love staying at with us

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Mountain Hi Campground

    6. Rocky Mountain Hi Campground

    16 Reviews
    17 Photos
    95 Saves
    Kalispell, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $56 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayfarers State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
Showing results 1-10 of 238 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Kalispell

Recent Reviews in Kalispell

1021 Reviews of 238 Kalispell Campgrounds


  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Diamond S RV Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Diamond S RV Park

    Great views of mountains to east

    Private campground. Level sites, stayed in #6 right by office. Sites fairly close together. Nice pet walk area. Showers clean. Full hookups. Solid, clean, well kept place to stay.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort

    Clean, convenient stop

    We picked this park for convenience while having travel trailer brake issues. Came at close of season, and thankful for a later evening check in. A little disconnect to obtain a bathroom Code. Fortunately we saw camp hosts walking dogs to gain access. Dog friendly, including nice gated area for off leash.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Valley Campground
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Pleasant Valley Campground

    Perfect stop for primitive

    Stayed early October and only 1 other camper. Glad it was open, as information is limited and most areas close Sept 15th or Oct 1 and close gates for access. Basic sites, vault toilet. Underused, but great for horses with fence, etc. Only one other car camper. Beautiful stars at night!

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Great stay close to West entrance Glacer NP

    I really enjoyed this boondocking site. They have great tent options right beside the river but not too close for flooding. Also they have a hard structured bathroom which was nice. Would stay here again. Also the road was bumpy but I managed it with my Honda Accord.

  • Sarah M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Huge pot holes and water puddles + crowded

    You can only park on the one side of the river and it’s very crowded. Additionally the road going down to the camping area has huge pot holes and and water so you need high clearance to get down there.

  • Ben H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Easy and convenient

    Only about 15 minutes away from Glacier National Park Westgate. I was able to stay here for multiple days. Each time was no trouble in finding a place to park. This area is popular for rafting and fishing. The surrounding area is also beautiful. There are outdoor restrooms located nearby. The camping limit for this area is 3 days. I was able to have good Verizon signal. Overall a great spot to camp.

  • Emmett S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Lake
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Bull Lake

    Quiet and secluded

    Less than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around. A large parking area, could accommodate a travel trailer or two in addition to a couple tent sites with fire rings. One picnic table with a fire pit and rock fire rings at the tent sites. There are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access to the lake.

  • Emmett S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stillwater River
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Stillwater River

    Beautiful Riverside Rustic

    Just about a mile from the highway, this site is right on the river with some nice deep pools. There are three separate fire rings with a vault toilet and picnic table. It's a short drive in but more suitable for truck camping, van, tent camping or very small trailer like 13' max due to narrow track and limited maneuvering area. High clearance required!

  • hannah W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Glacier Rim River Access 10363

    Stopped here but didn’t end up staying the night

    Could’ve been a really cool camping spot but after setting up camp a couple came yelling right by my van. They were part of the homeless camp and I just didn’t feel super comfortable because they were saying really aggressive things.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Mid week stay

    At first it looked crowded but we managed two vans side by side right in the river. Everyone was respectful of each other. Fire rings available. We heard that it can be very loud and crowded on the weekends with groups/parties

  • Kaitlin K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Sep. 5, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Good for the night

    This campsite was very accommodating for our rig (40ft long x 13.5ft tall) and the road in wasn’t too bad either. Plenty of space for lots of rigs and turning around.

    Pros:

    • the reservoir access and sun set views were really neat!

    Cons:

    • there were a few shady characters about with some weird tent set-ups (lawn mowers, abandoned bikes, and tarps) so we didn’t feel entirely safe leaving our stuff alone for a day trip.
  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 3 Bears Campground and RV Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    3 Bears Campground and RV Park

    Lots of Noise, Lots of Rowdy Kids

    Needed just a fast stop for the night, in a TT, after getting repairs.

    Lots of noise, loud music, loud motors, cars in and out that obviously didn’t stay there off of the back of camp, and just loud racket until late at night.

    Just a basic setup, but good shade. Connections were appropriate, pull in sites accommodated a standard pickup and 29 ft TT.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Aug. 24, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Dispersed site

    Drove in on a Wednesday and found a site right on the water. A number of spots were occupied with campers/tents with no one there. Really peaceful spot in my experience and an unbeatable view. Rented SUPs from in town to enjoy on the reservoir.

    Pit toilet, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    Tent site

    Reserved this deamy site right on the water. Tent 1 is closest to parking but has the most traffic going by to the other sites.

    Pit toilet nearby and a quick drive to flushable toilets. Showers available with tokens from the camphost ($3 for 6 minutes) but camphost weren't around when I was looking so no personal experience here.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    Walk in

    Got a walk in site when I showed up in the afternoon. All that was left was an RV site and they let me tent there. Even though I wasn't on the water, still got a water view! Pit toilet bathroom was close by, and sometimes the smell wafted over when the wind changed.

    SUP, kayak rentals on water, reasonably priced. The beach was rocky and perfect!

    In the morning, I spotted a black bear on a hill. Follow bear protocol well.

  • Josh S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Quiet solitude near West Glacier

    Got here on a Monday at about 1pm.

    There were about 3-4 sites available, 2 of which could fit a camper. We grabbed one. It could fit a 20-25' camper with vehicle at most.

    The place emptied out pretty well mid week (peak season).

    Pros:

    Many sites Some flat/level sites Some very big sites (2-3 could probably fit a larger 30'+ rig) Very quiet 15 min to west glacier entrance gate Clean Full 5 bar Tmobile

    Cons:

    Not much for turn around space, especially for a larger rig. If sites at end of road are packed you may be up a creek. Weekends it's packed. Still quiet, just nit much availability. No water. The spigot that used to be available outside the park gates are no longer available. Closest water is inside the park at the picnic areas.

    We stayed 6 nights and it was great. Very quiet, and an easy 25 minute drive to Columbia falls for grocery. 15-20 to hungry horse for gas.

  • Elizabeth F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Nice stay near West Glacier

    This was a nice site for the night. I came around 6pm and all 4 sites were full so we just car camped in one of the parking spots. The four spots look really nice, but they most likely fill up quick, as we came on a Monday night. It’s a very beautiful place to camp and the bathroom is a perk! I definitely recommend if wanting a free place to camp outside of the West Glacier entrance!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Super close to the West Entrance Glacier NP

    Many little sites, some with stone rings for fire, some without. Road is easily doable without 4WD. But has some potholes. You will sleep surrounded by forest in nature and close to the west entrance of the glacier National Park.

  • Laura D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Honey's Place RV Spot
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Honey's Place RV Spot

    Beautiful view

    The view was unbelievably beautiful, our dog had lots of room to run and other dogs to play with. The site was comfortable and the Hosts were so very KIND!

  • Bethany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful and Convenient

    This was the perfect spot for us to rest after Glacier before driving to the Tetons. We had beautiful views and a very peaceful night. No bears or signs of bears! Enjoyed hammocking with the sound of the stream throughout the night. There was no service for Verizon



Guide to Kalispell

Camping near Kalispell, Montana, offers a fantastic mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Glacier National Park is a hiker's paradise. Many campers rave about the breathtaking trails. One visitor at Fish Creek Campground said, "Glacier provides world-class hiking and scenery."
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers around Kalispell are perfect for fishing. A camper at Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed mentioned, "The river is very fast for fishing; could maybe get away with fly fishing."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bears and deer. A camper at Sprague Creek Campground warned, "Be bear prepared," highlighting the wildlife presence in the area.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Apgar Campground said, "This campsite was awesome. It was cute with a stellar view of a mountain right from our tent."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many prefer the peacefulness of smaller campgrounds. A visitor at Fish Creek Campground noted, "Relatively cramped but quiet enough."
  • Access to Water: Campgrounds near lakes are a hit. A camper at Big Arm State Unit shared, "We were right on the lake and separate from the other campers."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Required: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season. A camper at Apgar Campground mentioned, "Unlike other National Park campgrounds, staying here still requires reservations for main park attractions."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and other facilities. A visitor at Glacier Campground pointed out, "There are only 4 showers for a 200+ sized campground."
  • Bear Country: Always be cautious about wildlife. A camper at Sprague Creek Campground advised, "Follow park guidelines," to stay safe.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at West Glacier KOA Resort said, "The grandkids loved the pool and the Gaga ball pit."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Moose Creek RV Resort enjoyed the "delicious cinnamon rolls from the bakery at the General Store."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at Blankenship Bridge mentioned, "The water is super clear and perfect for a dip."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Glacier Campground noted, "Our site claimed to fit a 32ft rig, but there is no way."
  • Use Levelers: Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites. A visitor at Sprague Creek Campground said, "I had to use my levelers, but to be right on a Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park—so worth it!"
  • Plan for Limited Services: Be prepared for limited cell service and amenities. A camper at Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed mentioned, "The dirt road is dusty, but it is what it is."

Camping around Kalispell, Montana, offers a unique experience with its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Kalispell, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Kalispell, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 238 campgrounds and RV parks near Kalispell, MT and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Kalispell, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kalispell, MT is Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 55 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kalispell, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Kalispell, MT.

  • What parks are near Kalispell, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Kalispell, MT that allow camping, notably Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park.