West Shore Campground

For Montana locals, there’s nothing quite like the allure of Flathead Lake. As the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, it offers an incredible playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Tucked along its western edge, near the charming town of Lakeside, lies West Shore Campground – a true gem within the Flathead Lake State Park system. This campground is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and convenient access to all the wonders of the lake.

West Shore Campground is nestled within 129 forested acres, featuring a mature mix of fir, pine, and larch trees. Many campsites are beautifully shaded and offer glimpses or direct views of the crystal-clear waters of Flathead Lake. This tranquil setting provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing escape, whether you’re looking to unwind by a campfire, enjoy a quiet morning coffee, or embark on a day of aquatic adventures. It’s a place where the fresh Montana air and the sounds of nature truly soothe the soul.

Visitors consistently rave about their experiences at West Shore. As one happy camper noted, they "loved this campground. Beautiful spots located in the trees and a quick walk down to the lake. I would definitely recommend." Another highlighted the "Great views" and convenience for "Boaters needs." These firsthand accounts speak to the campground's appeal: its picturesque setting, well-maintained sites, and direct connection to Flathead Lake make it a top choice for a memorable Montana camping trip.

Whether you’re a seasoned RVer, a tent camping enthusiast, or a family looking for a convenient lakeside retreat, West Shore Campground provides a welcoming environment. Its blend of forested privacy and immediate access to the lake's recreational opportunities creates a versatile destination for any Montana resident seeking quality time in the great outdoors. It’s a testament to the natural splendor that makes our state so unique.

West Shore Campground boasts an enviable location at 17768 U.S. 93 S, Lakeside, MT 59922, USA. This address places it approximately 5.5 to 6 miles south of the charming community of Lakeside, directly along U.S. Highway 93. This prime position on the west side of Flathead Lake provides campers with direct access to the lake's shores and offers spectacular, glacially-carved rock outcrops that afford breathtaking views of Flathead Lake and the majestic Swan and Mission Mountain Ranges.

Accessibility to West Shore Campground is straightforward for Montana locals, making it an easy drive for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. U.S. Highway 93 is a major north-south artery, connecting the Flathead Valley region with other parts of the state. Whether you’re coming from Kalispell to the north or Missoula to the south, the campground is conveniently situated right off the highway, ensuring a smooth journey for all vehicle types, including RVs and trailers.

The park's well-maintained entrance leads directly to the campground loops, which are designed to accommodate various camping units. While the terrain can be somewhat hilly in areas, the internal roads are navigable. Ample parking is available within each campsite’s designated spur, with a maximum length limit of 40 feet for RV/trailer units, ensuring that most recreational vehicles can be accommodated comfortably.

For those arriving by boat, West Shore Campground features a deep-water boat launch and a dock. The boat launch is particularly notable as it often remains ice-free throughout the winter months, extending boating access. This excellent water access further enhances the convenience for boaters looking to explore Flathead Lake. The accessibility, combined with the stunning setting, makes West Shore a highly desirable and practical choice for Montana residents eager to experience lakeside camping.

West Shore Campground, as a unit of Flathead Lake State Park, offers a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors:

• Campsites: The campground features 33 campsites, including 7 dedicated tent-only sites. There is also one wheelchair-accessible site. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring/grill.
• RV Hookups: Many sites are equipped with electrical hookups (including 30-amp and 50-amp options), catering to RV campers. While water and sewer hookups may not be available at every site, potable water spigots are located throughout the campground.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from May through September, ensuring campers have access to fresh water during the peak season.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are provided within the campground loops, offering basic but clean facilities for campers.
• Boat Launch & Dock: A significant service is the deep-water boat launch, which provides excellent access to Flathead Lake. A long dock is also available, typically from mid-March through November, weather permitting, catering to both boaters and those looking to enjoy the lake's edge.
• Bear-Resistant Storage Lockers: To promote safety and protect wildlife, bear-resistant storage lockers are available, particularly beneficial for tent campers without vehicles for secure food storage.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is often available for purchase, making it convenient for campers to enjoy traditional campfires in designated fire rings.
• Trash Cans/Removal: Designated trash cans and regular trash removal services are provided, encouraging a clean and responsible camping environment.
• ADA Accessible Facilities: The park includes ADA accessible features, including at least one campsite, ensuring broader accessibility for visitors.
• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on-site during the operating season, providing assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests.
• Concessionaire Services: During peak season (June 15 through Labor Day), Sea Me Paddle Kayaking Tours operates as a concessionaire, offering rental equipment such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats directly at the park.

West Shore Campground on Flathead Lake boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for Montanans and visitors alike:

• Stunning Flathead Lake Views: Perched on glacially-carved dolomite outcroppings, the campground offers spectacular, often unobstructed views of Flathead Lake and the towering Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges. Many campsites provide direct lake vistas.
• Forested Campsites: The campground is beautifully situated within a mature forest of fir, pine, and larch trees, providing ample shade and a natural, serene ambiance for most sites.
• Direct Lake Access: With a quick walk from many campsites, campers can reach the rocky shoreline of Flathead Lake, ideal for swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the clear waters.
• Excellent Boating Facilities: A deep-water boat launch, often ice-free even in winter, and a long dock cater exceptionally well to boating enthusiasts, allowing for easy exploration of the vast lake.
• Hiking Trails: The 129-acre park features approximately 2.5 miles of easy to moderate hiking trails that traverse the shoreline and climb to scenic overlooks, offering fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Water Activities: Beyond boating and swimming, the park's concessionaire offers kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals, providing more ways to enjoy the pristine lake waters.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem surrounding Flathead Lake and the park offers opportunities for birdwatching, including ospreys and bald eagles, and potentially spotting various mammal species.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Often considered one of the quieter units of Flathead Lake State Park, West Shore provides a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed within the campground (on a leash), making it a great option for those who wish to bring their furry companions along on their outdoor adventures.
• Proximity to Lakeside: The campground’s close proximity to Lakeside, MT, means easy access to a grocery store, fuel, and other town amenities, blending wilderness experience with convenient services.

For more information, reservations, or to inquire about current conditions at West Shore Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 17768 U.S. 93 S, Lakeside, MT 59922, USA

Reservation Phone Number: 1-855-922-6768 (for Montana State Parks reservations via ReserveAmerica)

Park Information Phone Number: (406) 844-3044 (May - September)

Year-round Park Information Phone Number: (406) 837-3041 (Flathead Lake State Park Ranger Station)

Email: FWPwestshore@mt.gov

For the most current alerts and updates, especially regarding dock status or fire restrictions, it is recommended to check the Montana FWP West Shore State Park website or their social media channels.

For those of us living in Montana, West Shore Campground on Flathead Lake is more than just a place to stay; it's a quintessential Montana experience right in our backyard. Its accessibility, combined with the breathtaking natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, makes it an ideal choice for a local getaway. You don't need to embark on a long journey to find a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure – it's all here, just a short drive from many Flathead Valley communities and beyond.

The campground’s appeal for Montanans lies in its balance: shaded, private sites within a beautiful forest, yet only a quick stroll to the pristine waters of Flathead Lake. Whether you’re casting a line, launching your boat, enjoying a swim, or simply unwinding by the campfire with stunning mountain views, West Shore provides an authentic and deeply satisfying outdoor experience. The convenient amenities, including electrical hookups for RVs and readily available potable water, ensure a comfortable stay without detracting from the natural surroundings.

Reviews from fellow Montanans consistently praise the beautiful spots, the easy lake access, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. This feedback reinforces that West Shore Campground truly delivers on the promise of a memorable camping trip. It's suitable for families seeking a fun lakeside vacation, anglers looking for world-class fishing, or anyone simply yearning for a serene escape into the heart of Montana's magnificent Flathead Lake region. Make West Shore Campground your next local adventure – you'll be glad you did.

West Shore Campground

17768 U.S. 93 S, Lakeside, MT 59922, USA