Ashley Lake North Campground

Hey there, fellow Montanans! If you're yearning for a truly authentic outdoor experience, one that captures the pristine beauty of our state's wilderness, then you absolutely need to discover Ashley Lake North Campground. Nestled just a short drive from Kalispell, this hidden gem offers a breathtaking escape into nature, providing the perfect setting for making lasting memories. It’s a place that locals have cherished for decades, and for good reason – it truly lives up to its name as an outdoor paradise.

Ashley Lake North Campground isn't just another spot on a map; it's a vibrant testament to Montana's natural grandeur. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of crystal-clear water against the shore, with pine-scented air filling your lungs and the majestic beauty of the Flathead National Forest surrounding you. This campground is ideal for anyone seeking tranquility, adventure, or simply a refreshing break from the everyday. Whether you're a seasoned camper, an avid angler, or a family looking for a memorable lakeside retreat, Ashley Lake North Campground offers an experience that is both invigorating and deeply peaceful.

Ashley Lake North Campground is conveniently located at N Ashley Lake Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA. Situated a short drive west of Kalispell, this campground offers a surprisingly accessible escape into a seemingly remote wilderness. For those of us living in the Flathead Valley, or even traveling from further afield within Montana, reaching this outdoor haven is a relatively straightforward journey.

To get there from Kalispell, you'll take Highway 2 West for about 4.5 miles, then turn at the Batavia School onto Ashley Lake Road. You'll then proceed about 8 miles to the lake. Take the North Shore Road, and signs will mark the entrance to the campground. While some sections of the access road might be gravel and occasionally rough, it is generally passable for most vehicles, though larger RVs might find the turns tight. It's a small price to pay for the incredible seclusion and beauty that awaits. The proximity to Kalispell means that despite feeling truly "out there," you're never too far from essential supplies or services should you need them. This blend of wild beauty and practical accessibility makes Ashley Lake North Campground an ideal destination for Montanans seeking a local adventure without venturing into truly remote backcountry.

• Campsites: The campground features a limited number of campsites, typically around 5 to 6, providing an intimate camping experience.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at each site, allowing campers to enjoy campfires (check for fire restrictions).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets (also referred to as SST vault toilets), offering a basic but functional restroom facility.
• Boat Launches: Readily available boat launches make it easy for campers to get their boats, kayaks, or canoes onto Ashley Lake.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly camp hosts are typically on-site, offering assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.
• Informational Bulletin Board: A bulletin board provides useful information about the campground and surrounding area.
• No Potable Water: It's important to note that drinking water is not provided at the campground, so campers must bring their own water supply.
• Primitive Camping Experience: While offering basic amenities, the campground maintains a more primitive feel, appealing to those who prefer a less developed camping experience.

• Breathtaking Lake Views: The most striking feature of Ashley Lake North Campground is its direct access to the stunning Ashley Lake, renowned for its "crystal clear and blue like island waters" that often remind visitors of tropical destinations.
• Excellent Water Activities: Ashley Lake is a paradise for water enthusiasts. Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing (known for kokanee, cutthroat, yellow perch, and rainbow-cutthroat hybrids), boating (motorized and non-motorized), kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
• Peaceful and Beautiful Setting: Reviewers consistently highlight the peaceful and beautiful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
• Friendly Camp Hosts: The presence of friendly and helpful camp hosts contributes significantly to a positive and welcoming camping experience.
• Proximity to Kalispell: Despite its secluded feel, the campground is just a "short drive west of Kalispell," offering the convenience of nearby town amenities if needed.
• Well-Maintained Campsites: Campsites are described as well-maintained, with adequate space and natural shading, enhancing the overall comfort of the stay.
• Opportunities for Wildlife Viewing: Being nestled within the Flathead National Forest, the area provides opportunities for observing local wildlife and enjoying the natural ecosystem.
• Ideal for Extended Stays: One loyal customer highlights yearly week to two-week long stays, underscoring the campground's suitability for longer, immersive outdoor adventures.
• Cleanliness Emphasis: The strong sentiment from loyal visitors about keeping the lake clean and beautiful reinforces the pristine nature of the area.

Address: N Ashley Lake Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA

Phone: (406) 758-5208

Mobile Phone: +1 406-758-5208

For us Montanans, Ashley Lake North Campground is more than just a destination; it's a cherished local treasure that embodies the very essence of our state's incredible outdoor heritage. Having lived in Kalispell for decades, many of us can attest to the sheer magic of Ashley Lake, with its water so clear and blue it rivals tropical paradises. This isn't some far-flung, tourist-only spot; it's a slice of Big Sky Country that truly belongs to us, offering an accessible and profoundly rewarding escape.

The fact that it's just a short drive from Kalispell makes it incredibly convenient for a weekend getaway or even a quick mid-week refresh. We don't have to battle endless traffic or plan elaborate trips to find pristine beauty; it's right here, tucked away waiting to be enjoyed. This campground allows us to truly unplug and immerse ourselves in the natural world, whether it’s through fishing for trout in the incredibly clear waters, gliding across the lake in a kayak, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening by the campfire under a blanket of stars.

While it offers a more primitive camping experience, the presence of friendly camp hosts and well-maintained basic facilities, like vault toilets and fire rings, ensures that the focus remains on the breathtaking natural surroundings rather than unnecessary distractions. It's a place where childhood memories are made, family traditions are upheld, and the simple joys of Montana's outdoors are celebrated. For those of us who call this magnificent state home, Ashley Lake North Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the very soul of Montana – its stunning landscapes, its peaceful solitude, and its boundless opportunities for authentic outdoor adventure. It's a place that truly belongs to us, and one we should all make time to visit and cherish.

Ashley Lake North Campground

N Ashley Lake Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA