Big Larch Campground

For Montanans dreaming of a quintessential lakeside camping experience, Big Larch Campground on the shores of Seeley Lake is an irresistible destination. Nestled within the expansive Lolo National Forest, this popular campground offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable amenities, making it a favorite among locals. It's a place where the majestic Western Larch trees provide ample shade, the lake beckons for a refreshing dip, and the call of the wild is always within earshot.

Big Larch Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen swimmer, a enthusiastic boater, or simply someone who revels in the tranquility of a shaded campsite, this campground caters to a diverse range of interests. Its reputation for cleanliness, abundant shade, and direct lake access makes it a top choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to create lasting memories in Montana's stunning Seeley-Swan Valley.

Big Larch Campground is ideally situated at 3335 MT-83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868, USA. This prime location places it directly on the east shoreline of Seeley Lake, a beautiful glacial-formed lake that is a central feature of the "Chain of Lakes" in the Seeley-Swan Valley. The campground is conveniently located just a short distance, approximately 0.7 to 1 mile, north of the charming town of Seeley Lake on Montana Highway 83.

Accessibility to Big Larch Campground is excellent, making it a popular choice for all types of campers. The internal roads within the campground are paved, ensuring smooth navigation for vehicles and RVs. While some sites might have a slight slant, which requires careful parking, the campground can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length in many sites, with some sites being 40-50 feet long on their "long side." This makes it suitable for a wide range of camping setups, from tents to larger coaches.

The proximity to the town of Seeley Lake is a significant advantage. Within a mile, campers can access groceries, gas, and sport rentals, providing the convenience of nearby services without sacrificing the natural immersion of a forest campground. This blend of accessibility and natural beauty makes Big Larch Campground a highly sought-after destination for Montanans looking for a straightforward and rewarding outdoor experience. The campground is generally open year-round, though services are limited outside of the peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day).

Big Larch Campground offers a robust set of services and amenities that enhance the camping experience, blending comfort with the natural environment.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts 48 individual campsites, including 29 individual RV/tent sites, 3 bicycle campsites, and 2 large group camping areas (Group A and Group B). Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings with grills.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.

• Vault Toilets: Accessible and well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the campground. Reviews frequently praise their cleanliness.

• Boat Launch and Aluminum Pier: A concrete boat launch with an aluminum pier provides easy access for motorized and non-motorized boats onto Seeley Lake.

• Swimming Beach: A beautiful, roped-off swimming beach is available for campers to cool off and enjoy the lake, making it a family-friendly highlight.

• On-site Campground Host: A campground host is typically on site 24 hours a day during the operational season, providing assistance and ensuring a smooth experience.

• Garbage Dumpsters and Recycling Bins: Convenient garbage dumpsters and recycling bins are provided, encouraging responsible waste management and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

• Accessible Facilities: Several campsites, vault toilets, and other facilities are designed to be accessible, including a dedicated accessible site held open until 6 p.m. for handicapped use.

• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: Individual sites in Loops 2 and 3, as well as the group sites, are available for reservation through Recreation.gov from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Individual sites in Loops 1 and 4, and all sites outside of the peak season, are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with payment often available via a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app.

• No Electrical or Sewer Hookups: It's important to note that while the campground is well-equipped, individual campsites do not offer electrical or sewer hookups. Campers should be prepared for a self-contained experience in terms of power and waste disposal.

Big Larch Campground is celebrated for a variety of features and highlights that make it a standout destination in the Seeley Lake area.

• Stunning Seeley Lake Frontage: The campground's location directly on the east shoreline of Seeley Lake provides breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. This also means direct access for a wide array of water activities.

• Ample Shade: True to its name, the campground is heavily shaded by towering Western Larch trees. This provides a welcome respite from the sun, keeping campsites cool and comfortable, even on hot summer days.

• Excellent Water Recreation: Seeley Lake is a hub for water-based fun. Campers can enjoy swimming at the designated beach, fishing for Kokanee salmon, bass, whitefish, pike, trout, and perch, or engaging in motorized and non-motorized boating, including waterskiing, kayaking, and canoeing.

• Extensive Trail Network: "Lots of short bike and hike trails" are accessible directly from the campground. These trails provide opportunities for exploring the surrounding forest and enjoying nature on foot or by bike, catering to various fitness levels. There is also a nature trail and an interpretive area for educational "campfire talks" during the summer.

• Beautiful Beach: The campground boasts a "so pretty" sandy beach area, ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the water's edge.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Lolo National Forest is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, black and grizzly bears (requiring proper food storage), bald and golden eagles, and various waterfowl. This offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With its beach, trails, and proximity to town, Big Larch is a highly suitable campground for families, offering a safe and engaging environment for children and adults alike.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Big Larch Campground and the Seeley Lake area, you can contact the managing authority, the Seeley Lake Ranger District of the Lolo National Forest.

Address: 3335 MT-83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868, USA (This is the campground address, but for official inquiries, the Ranger District is the primary contact point).

Phone: (406) 677-2233 (This is the contact number for the Seeley Lake Ranger District).

Mobile Phone: +1 406-677-2233

For reservations, especially for individual sites in Loops 2 & 3 or for group sites, it is highly recommended to use Recreation.gov, where reservations are available from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day. For first-come, first-served sites, plan to arrive early, particularly during peak season.

For Montanans, Big Larch Campground on Seeley Lake represents an ideal and highly suitable destination for an authentic yet comfortable outdoor adventure. Its appeal to residents stems from its perfect balance of natural beauty, abundant recreational opportunities, and accessible amenities.

Firstly, its prime location directly on the shores of Seeley Lake is a major draw. For locals who cherish Montana's stunning lakes and forests, Big Larch offers direct access to swimming, boating, and fishing in crystal-clear waters. The "so pretty" beach and the convenience of a boat ramp mean that a perfect day on the lake is just steps away from your campsite. This provides an immediate and immersive connection to the natural playground that Montanans value so highly.

Secondly, the campground's well-maintained facilities and numerous amenities cater to a comfortable experience without sacrificing the wilderness feel. The presence of potable water, clean vault toilets, and ample shaded sites ensures a pleasant stay. While it may not have electrical hookups, this encourages a more traditional camping experience, which many Montanans embrace. The "tons of shade" provided by the big larch trees is a significant benefit, offering relief during warm summer days and enhancing the overall comfort of the campsite.

Finally, Big Larch Campground offers a rich array of activities that resonate with the active Montana lifestyle. The network of short bike and hike trails provides opportunities for exploration right from your tent or RV. Its status as a "local favorite" underscores its reputation within the community, signifying that it meets the high standards Montanans have for their outdoor spaces. For those seeking a vibrant, family-friendly campground with endless opportunities for lakeside fun and forest exploration, Big Larch Campground is an excellent choice for a memorable and authentic Montana experience.

Big Larch Campground

3335 MT-83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868, USA