Holland Lake serves equestrians through two camping areas near Seeley Lake, Montana. Located at the edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness at approximately 4,000 feet elevation, this area maintains cool night temperatures even in summer. Multiple trail systems connect to the wilderness boundary, with seasonal access typically from May through September depending on snowpack conditions.
What to do
Hike to Holland Falls: The hike starts from Holland Lake Campground and offers mountain and lake views. "The hike to the Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," notes Talia H.
Wildlife watching: Remain alert for wildlife encounters throughout the area. "We saw a black bear across the road from the campground. The closest cell service is just outside of Seeley Lake," reports Sara D. from Holland Lake Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Paddle on Holland Lake's clear waters. "There's even one site on the island, if you brought a canoe or kayak, as we did! The water on the lake is crystal clear, and while motor boats are allowed, people appreciate the quiet a bit more," shares Anna B.
Access wilderness trails: Indian Meadows Trailhead serves as an entry point for backcountry expeditions. "Indian Meadows Trailhead is the trailhead for two trails in to the Helena National Forest Scapegoat Wilderness Area," explains Dexter I.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Holland Lake provides refreshing swimming opportunities during hot days. "Great place for families...clean, quiet, right by the lake. Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," writes Talia H.
Secluded sites: Some campsites offer more privacy than others. "There's even one site on the island, if you brought a canoe or kayak, as we did! The water on the lake is crystal clear," according to Anna B.
Trail access: South Fork provides strategic positioning for wilderness exploration. "South Fork Campground located at the end of Benchmark road is one of the campgrounds to use for accessing the Bob Marshall Wilderness," notes Dexter I., mentioning its "campsites with picnic tables and metal fire rings."
Uncrowded lakes: Some lesser-known lakes offer solitude. "Absolutely gorgeous undeveloped area! If you can stand the hordes of mosquitos and constant trail of hikers coming through the area hiking to Lake Dinah," reports BriAnne M. about Lake Elsina - Dispersed.
What you should know
Bear safety: Both black and grizzly bears frequent these areas. "Keep an eye out for bears. We saw a black bear across the road from the campground," warns Sara D.
Mosquito preparation: Bring adequate insect protection, especially in early summer. "The mosquitoes were pretty bad in early July," notes Carl H. from Holland Lake Campground.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "We had a really nice couple of mid week nights here. We couldn't get two consecutive nights in a row so had to move spots, but it wasn't a big deal," explains Sara D.
Limited services: Benchmark and other remote sites have minimal amenities. "Campground has two water pumps and vault toilets. The adjacent trail head is for Straight Creek Trail #212, which will have you in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in a matter of minutes," explains Dexter I.
Tips for camping with families
Suitable trails: Select appropriate hiking distances for children. "Our daughter braved a chilly swim and there were lots of dirt roads and little trails for the strider bikes," shares Sara D.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. "There's a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views," describes a reviewer at Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground.
Swimming opportunities: Many lakes have shallow entry points for children. "Great place for families...clean, quiet, right by the lake. The hike to the Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming," shares Talia H.
Wildlife education: Teach children about wildlife safety before arrival. "We saw a black bear across the road from the campground. The closest cell service is just outside of Seeley Lake," notes Sara D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on horse trailer needs at equestrian campgrounds near Seeley Lake. "This seven site campground and trail head gives the hiker and horseback rider a pleasant campground with plenty of room for horse trailer parking, corrals for the horses," explains Dexter I.
Dump station access: Plan your waste management. "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer," mentions Reames C. from Bearmouth RV Park.
Driving considerations: Access roads can be challenging. "The only downside to this location is the access road being full of potholes, and if pulling up to the site late at night be careful for the narrow, winding roads that have a large drop off," warns Matt K. about Indian Meadows Trailhead.
Leveling expectations: Be prepared for variable site conditions. "Sites are well spread apart. Your proximity to horse corrals varies by site and if horses are present," notes Dexter I. about South Fork Campground.
