Camping opportunities near Stryker, Montana range from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping areas sit within Flathead National Forest or near Glacier National Park boundaries, where mixed conifer forests provide natural windbreaks against the sometimes unpredictable mountain weather.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Kintla Lake Campground offers excellent paddle sports opportunities on a motorboat-restricted lake. "This part of the lake also does not allow motorized boats so kayaking and canoeing is very pleasant. We fished here and within 30 seconds of dropping my line I caught my first lake trout! Can't beat that!" reports Lisa A.
Hiking to remote lakes: Short backcountry hikes lead to secluded camping opportunities at Martin Lake, where visitors find pristine environments. "After a short hike to the lake from the trailhead, there is one site right on the waters edge with a primitive fire ring. Because it's not the easiest to access, it's one of our favorites to visit with the doggos," notes Emmett S.
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail networks for cyclists of all levels. "Nearby Whitefish, MT has a growing reputation for fantastic trails, hikes and mountain bike areas, and this full-service oasis takes advantage of all of it," writes Bjorn S. about Whitefish Bike Retreat, which features "bike trails/easy routes to every other major biking area around Whitefish - Spencer Mountain, Lyon Mountain, Reservoir Lake and Big Mountain Nordic."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent camping areas near Stryker provide spacing between sites. "Bowman Lake has to be one of my most favorite locations in Glacier Park," writes Brian N. about Bowman Lake Campground, which "will need advance reservations due to limited space" during peak summer months.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. "We saw multiple deer, various birds, a grizzly on way in," reports Max K. from Bowman Lake Campground. "I couldn't sleep any more so I got up at 4:30, made coffee, and walked down to the lake about 5 am. It was like a painting."
Access to fishing spots: Many campgrounds provide direct lake or river access. At Blankenship Bridge, you'll find "great spot and would camp there again for sure. Plenty of spots but can fill up in the summer very quickly," according to Price T. The dispersed camping area sits directly along a river with rocky shores perfect for fishing access.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest service roads to the best tent camping near Stryker, Montana require cautious driving. Moose Lake requires "a long drive from the main road," notes Todd J. Seasonal conditions can further complicate access, as "snow was over the road still but not too deep" even into late spring.
Site availability: Most non-reservation campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Ryan Road Dispersed Camping offers free sites but with limited capacity. "There are only about 10 sites so get there early. There is also a huge field that can accommodate many tents (no vehicles, you must park next to it on the road and walk down the short hill)," explains Kimberly L.
Bear safety requirements: All camping areas require proper food storage. At Martin Lake, Emmett S. advises it's "advisable to store food by hanging from high tree branch to discourage bear investigations." Some campgrounds provide bear boxes while others require visitors to secure food in vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Select appropriate sites: Choose campgrounds based on your family's experience level. Grave Creek Campground offers a balanced experience as "there is the old warden camp and down on the creek. No services, semi remote, very quiet, dusty, views of the mountains," according to John P., who notes "locals are very friendly."
Consider activity options: Family-friendly camping often benefits from diverse recreation opportunities. Stillwater Getaway offers "diverse campground with tent sites, car camping sites, and cabins and teepees," where Reagan M. notes they have "kayaks to use, and potable water" plus "an outdoor kitchen."
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature drops overnight, even in summer. Pack appropriate gear for families, especially warm sleeping bags, as campers at Bowman Lake note needing their "0-degree sleeping bag" for comfort during cooler nights.
Tips from RVers
Road width and clearance: RV access varies significantly between campgrounds. "The road in was narrow. Glad I didn't have any problems with on coming riggs," notes Edward about Ryan Road Dispersed Camping. While at Blankenship Bridge, campers report "deep rutted muddy holes filled with water to get to site. Sketchy low trees and narrow road," creating challenges for larger vehicles.
Campsite size limitations: Verify your vehicle fits specific sites before committing to remote areas. "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot," writes Kristen about Ryan Road. "There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV. We chose the very last site before the gate leading back to the Ryan air strip."
