Seeley Lake camping areas sit at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet, nestled between the Swan and Mission Mountain ranges in western Montana. The region experiences warm summer days with cool evenings, and campsites near Seeley Lake, Montana typically receive less precipitation during summer months than surrounding mountain areas. Forest roads throughout the area vary in quality depending on seasonal maintenance schedules and recent weather conditions.
What to do
Hike to Holland Falls: From Holland Lake Campground, take the 1.6-mile trail to the waterfall viewpoint. "This is one of my favorite spots in Montana. There's a short hike up to the waterfall and a longer hike to upper waterfalls. The water on the lake is crystal clear," notes Anna B.
Visit historic landmarks: Near Camp Paxson, explore the Girard Grove on Boy Scout Road. "It is also near Girard Grove, home of Gus, the largest larch tree in the US. There are many trails, some leading you to this grove on Boy Scout Road," shared Judy T. in her review of the Seeley Lake area.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Placid Lake State Park Campground for salmon fishing. "Beautiful place to access Placid lake. Nice clean facilities. Great for salmon fishing," explains Bonnie E. The lake is particularly productive during early morning and evening hours.
Non-motorized water activities: Explore Lake Alva Campground for peaceful paddling. "Lake Alva is a 'no wake' lake means it is a great place to kayak and paddle board, canoe, raft, whatever flotation device you can think of," shares Gina M. The lake remains calm throughout the day due to boat restrictions.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The Seeley Lake Lolo Campground offers well-designed sites with natural separation. "The campsites are big and spacious. Even though the sites are open, they still feel private thanks to the natural layout and surrounding trees," Jason S. reports from his camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: Bears are common in the area, requiring proper food storage. "Keep an eye out for bears. We saw a black bear across the road from the campground," warns Sara D. about her experience at Holland Lake Campground. Wildlife sightings are most common during early morning and evening hours.
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes offer different experiences based on personal preference. "This has to be my absolute favorite place to be. The water is the perfect temperature and everyone is always friendly," shares Gina M. about her experience at Lake Alva.
Fishing access: The Blackfoot River provides excellent river fishing opportunities. "Beautiful spot very close to the highway. Russell Gates follows the south shore of the River in one of its most picturesque spots," notes Leland about Russell Gates Memorial fishing access.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F overnight to 85°F during peak afternoon hours. "We had a really nice couple of mid week nights here. Bring bug spray, the mosquitos are out. They really go nuts when you first pull in but relax after a few minutes," advises Sara D. about Holland Lake in June.
Campsite variations: Sites near water are in higher demand and fill quickly. "Tent campsites are awkward, very uneven small sites to place a tent. Showers cost extra on top of the $28 per night cost," warns Delanie J. about Placid Lake State Park. Site selection impacts your overall experience.
Off-season considerations: Many facilities close or reduce services after Labor Day. "Looks like a great spot, however on Oct 9th, camping here is closed. Had a lovely picnic lunch at the day use site," shared David P. about River Point Lolo Campground.
Reservation systems: Peak season requires advance planning, particularly for weekends. "Great sites that are spaced out from your neighbor. The camp hosts were top notch and were very present in site," explains Jan M. about Placid Lake State Park. Reservations open 6 months in advance for most sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Salmon Lake offers clean, accessible beach areas. "Nice campground with swimming area and great lake views," notes K B. in their review of Salmon Lake State Park Campground. The gradual shoreline depth makes this location suitable for young swimmers.
Easy hiking options: Children can manage the trails at Lake Alva. "Nice campground with picnic tables, fire pits, clean toilets, and paved parking spots. Walk down to lake is about 100 yards away," shares Allen J. The short distances make this accessible for families with young children.
Structured camping experience: Consider Camp Paxson for organized group activities. "Amazing! Some of my favorite summer memories are at this campground. Primitive cabins with electricity and bunk beds but nothing else. Dock to jump off of. Trails all over Seely lake," recommends Megan B.
Wildlife education opportunities: Wildlife sightings provide learning experiences. "Warning: there are bears in the area. We didn't see any, but saw some evidence of them," notes Jason S. about Seeley Lake Lolo Campground. Rangers occasionally offer interpretive programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with appropriate size restrictions for your vehicle. "We have a family of 5 so hauling our 5th wheel around the camp ground was a little tight but we managed," shares Whitney G. about Seeley Lake Lolo Campground.
Hookup availability: Electricity options exist but are limited. "State park campground power in some spots sites by lake no power but I think the best. All paved and pay showers available," notes Joe H. about Placid Lake State Park.
Road access considerations: Access roads vary in quality throughout the season. "The 3-mile road from highway is a bit rough but worth it!" explains Joe H. about Placid Lake State Park. Higher clearance vehicles may be necessary for some campgrounds after periods of heavy rain.
Dump station locations: Plan waste disposal accordingly as not all campgrounds have facilities. "THERE ARE NO SEWER HOOKUPS. However at Seeley Lake, about four miles away there is a dump station," advises Dan M. about the facilities at Placid Lake State Park.
