Camping options around Stryker, Montana cluster along the remote northern edge of Flathead National Forest where the elevation ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 feet. This area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching the 80s and cold winters with heavy snowfall. Access roads to many campgrounds become impassable from late October through May, and visitors should prepare for unpredictable weather even during summer months.
What to do
Hike to mountain views: Access trails directly from Big Therriault Lake Campground for day hikes with panoramic vistas. "The road in is a little tough. When you get to the campground, you realize it was worth it. Absolutely gorgeous lake nestled in the surrounding mountains," notes camper Melissa P.
Fish local lakes: Many smaller lakes in the Stryker area contain cutthroat trout, with minimal fishing pressure. "Moose lake nearby is good for 6 to 8 inch cutthroat," shares Todd J., who camped at Big Creek Campground.
Mountain biking: The area surrounding Whitefish Bike Retreat offers trails for all skill levels. A visitor mentioned, "There's a bike skills area, trails for all levels…all intertwined with the Beaver Lake series of trails and small lakes." Bike rentals are available on-site for those without equipment.
What campers like
Bear-aware facilities: Campgrounds in the region provide proper food storage. "Bear proof cans are provided at each site and there is a hand pump water spigot for potable water," writes Emmett S. about his stay at Big Therriault Lake Campground.
Riverfront sites: Sites along the Flathead River provide water access and ambient sounds. Jenny H. notes about Big Creek Campground, "Camps 5-15 are on the Flathead R" and "Swift current and slippery rocks" are considerations for water activities.
Remote camping experience: Tuchuck Campground offers seclusion for those seeking quieter alternatives to popular Glacier National Park campgrounds. "Rough road going west from Polebridge not suitable for RVs. Much better road eastbound from Eureka side. Nice camp for a tent camp or camper," advises Sonja R.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Whitefish experience railroad noise. "There are train tracks about 40 feet away from some of the campsites and trains come through almost all night long. If you are a light sleeper I wouldn't plan on getting much sleep," warns Evan H. about Whitefish Lake State Park.
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites require careful driving. Brian N. reports on Tuchuck Campground, "The road is well marked but does pass thru several locations that have been covered with rock slides due to recent forest fires. Road is single track in spots."
Seasonal operations: Many glamping sites in Stryker area operate from May through September only. When considering the West Glacier KOA Resort, note that they're "Open 5/1/2020 - 10/1/2020" according to their seasonal information.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several resorts offer dedicated activities for children. About Rocky Mountain Hi Campground, Jennifer H. says, "The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek, volleyball net and paved roads to scooter and roller blade."
Wildlife encounters: Teach children about proper behavior in bear country. At Big Creek, a visitor noted, "Recent bear campground activity when I was there," highlighting the importance of wilderness awareness even at established campgrounds.
Site selection: Choose sites away from busy areas for better family experiences. At Glacier Campground, one camper observed, "This campground was nice and clean but VERY busy. Not an issue as it was 4th of July weekend but if you want a more quiet and spread out situation, I wouldn't recommend staying here."
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Many glamping options in Stryker area cannot accommodate longer RVs. About Whitefish Bike Retreat, Katie O. warns, "We took our 24' trailer in with our Tundra. It was gravel, bumpy and steep in spots I would not advise anything longer."
Hookup availability: Plan accordingly for limited services at some campgrounds. At Moose Creek RV Resort, a visitor noted, "Beginning off season, pull through site with water and electric. Uncrowded, convenient, but close to highway so a bit noisy."
Seasonal maintenance: Facilities vary depending on time of year. David P. shares about visiting Big Creek in October: "Only the Group Camping section was open at this time of year. No water. No trash. So pack it in, pack it out."
