Upper Stillwater Campground

For Montana locals with a deep appreciation for untouched wilderness and a desire to truly unplug, Upper Stillwater Campground near Olney offers a classic and serene forest service camping experience. This is not a bustling resort, but rather a peaceful haven designed for those who provide their own power and water, embracing the simplicity and beauty of the Flathead National Forest. If you're an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet escape to the "Last Best Place," Upper Stillwater Campground provides the perfect backdrop for your next Montana adventure.

Montana’s vast landscapes offer a myriad of outdoor opportunities, and the northwestern part of our state, with its dense forests, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains, is a particular paradise for campers. Upper Stillwater Campground perfectly embodies this spirit, offering a comfortable yet rustic base for exploring. It's a testament to the idea that true relaxation can be found in the absence of modern distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a quiet weekend with family, or a solo venture to reconnect with the wild, this campground welcomes you to experience the tranquility and outdoor potential that define our state’s incredible outdoor heritage.

Upper Stillwater Campground is nestled within the beautiful Flathead National Forest, located near Olney, MT 59927, USA. This placement sets it within the vast and stunning wildlands of northwestern Montana, known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. The campground is situated on Upper Stillwater Lake, offering direct access to the water.

Accessibility to Upper Stillwater Campground is generally good, especially for a forest service site. It's located 14 miles north of Whitefish. Visitors can reach it by taking Highway 93 northwest toward Eureka, Montana, for about 22 miles, then turning left at the Stillwater Lake Campground site sign. Following the signs for approximately 1 mile will lead you to the campground. The roads leading to and within the campground are typically gravel. While the campground was renovated in 2008 and accommodates trailers, it's advised that the maximum recommended trailer length for this area is 12 feet, suggesting some tighter spots or turns. This accessible yet slightly remote location allows for a genuine wilderness feel without requiring a full backcountry excursion. Its direct lake access is a significant convenience for those looking to fish or put in small, non-motorized watercraft.

Upper Stillwater Campground is a primitive campsite, designed for those who appreciate a less developed camping experience while still offering essential amenities for comfort and safety. It caters to campers who are prepared to be largely self-sufficient, aligning with the "off-grid" camping style. Based on public data and visitor reviews, the services typically available include:

• Campsites: The campground features 5 designated campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. These sites are suitable for tent camping and smaller trailers or RVs (up to 12 feet recommended length).
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available on-site, providing basic restroom facilities.
• No Potable Water: It is important to note that the campground generally does "No potable water." Campers must bring all their own drinking and cooking water.
• Gravel Boat Launch: There is a "gravel boat launch" available, providing access to Upper Stillwater Lake for small watercraft. This is a significant amenity for anglers and paddlers.
• Day Use Parking: Separate day-use parking is typically available for those visiting the lake or trailhead without camping.
• Bear-Proof Food Storage: Given its location in prime bear country, it is highly probable that bear-resistant food storage containers or bear boxes are provided at sites, or campers are advised to use bear-safe food storage practices in their vehicles. This is a critical safety measure.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: The campground operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" principle, meaning campers are responsible for removing all their trash, ensuring the preservation of the pristine environment.
• Camp Host: During the summer months, a host "may be on site," which can provide added assistance and information.

Upper Stillwater Campground truly shines through its natural features and the array of recreational activities it enables, making it a beloved spot for those who seek genuine outdoor immersion in Montana.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: This is a major highlight. Visitors have reported "Caught a pike here," and the lake is known to contain brook trout, perch, and occasional cutthroat trout. The presence of a "gravel boat launch" makes it easy to get out on the water.
• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite being a popular spot, especially in summer, the campground offers a "Great relaxing bench to hang out" and a generally peaceful ambiance. It's ideal for those who appreciate "quiet" time in nature, allowing for a true escape from everyday noise.
• Proximity to Upper Stillwater Lake: The campground's direct location on the lake provides immediate access for boating (non-motorized boats are often recommended or restricted to specific types), fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquil waterside setting.
• Stunning Scenery: Situated within the Flathead National Forest, the campground is surrounded by natural beauty. The forested setting and lake views contribute to a picturesque environment.
• Hiking Opportunities: The area around the campground features "several hiking trails nearby," allowing campers to explore the surrounding forest and potentially discover more secluded spots or scenic overlooks.
• Wildlife Viewing: Being in a national forest, the area is home to diverse wildlife. Campers might spot deer, various bird species, and other forest creatures, adding to the wilderness experience.
• Off-Grid Experience: For those who prefer to be self-sufficient and disconnect from modern amenities, the lack of full hookups and limited services is a distinct feature, promoting a more authentic camping adventure where you "provide your own power and water."
• Seasonal Access: The campground and fishing access site can be accessed during "non-snow months May-November," offering a good window for spring, summer, and fall camping. In winter, it becomes accessible via snowmobile or snowshoe.

For the most current information, operating status, fire restrictions, or any specific inquiries regarding Upper Stillwater Campground, it is best to contact the Flathead National Forest office that manages this area.

Address: Olney, MT 59927, USA (This is the general location of the campground)

While a direct phone number for the campground itself or a specific host might not always be readily available, you can reach the Flathead National Forest Supervisor's Office for general information. For more localized information specific to campgrounds in the Olney area, contacting the local Ranger District might be more effective.

• Flathead National Forest Supervisor's Office: (406) 758-5208

It is always highly recommended to call ahead, especially for a forest service campground that may operate seasonally, be subject to weather closures, or have specific regulations regarding campfires or bear activity.

For Montana locals, Upper Stillwater Campground offers an authentic and accessible slice of our state's unparalleled natural beauty. It's a prime example of the kind of quiet, primitive camping experience many Montanans cherish, where the focus is truly on the outdoors rather than elaborate amenities. The fact that you "Caught a pike here" highlights its strong appeal for our local angling community, providing fantastic opportunities for fishing right from your campsite or with a small boat.

This campground is ideal for those who appreciate the "off-grid sense where you provide your own power and water," aligning perfectly with our independent spirit and love for self-sufficiency in the wilderness. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the presence of a "Great relaxing bench to hang out," underscores its suitability for anyone looking to truly unwind and escape the daily grind. While it might have been a "Gloomy day" for one visitor, the inherent beauty of Upper Stillwater Lake and the surrounding Flathead National Forest always shines through. For a tranquil, fishing-rich, and genuinely Montana camping experience, Upper Stillwater Campground remains a top choice for locals seeking their next adventure in the "Last Best Place."

Upper Stillwater Campground

Olney, MT 59927, USA