Swan Lake Campground
4.45107 reviews21770 Hwy 83, Swan Lake, MT 59911
Swan Lake Campground
$22.00 - $350.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$350.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual site reservations cost $22 per camper unit per night, with an additional vehicle charge of $5 per vehicle per day. Group site fees range from $150 to $350 per night based on the number of attendees (1-100 people). Starting in 2025, group reservations require a $100 non-refundable down payment. Day-use fees for the beach and boat launch areas are $5 per car.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of northwest Montana's pristine wilderness, Swan Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and lakeside adventure. This hidden gem features 38 thoughtfully designed campsites across two distinct loops: the sun-drenched Ponderosa Loop, where spacious sites offer plenty of elbow room for larger rigs and families, and the intimate Birch Loop, where dappled sunlight filters through a canopy of trees, creating cozy havens for those seeking a more secluded experience. For larger gatherings, an impressive group site welcomes up to 100 people, making it ideal for family reunions or outdoor celebrations. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – launch your boat into the crystal-clear waters, cast a line for the day's catch, explore winding forest trails, or simply float in the refreshing mountain lake as eagles soar overhead.
Swan Lake Campground offers options for individual camping, group camping, and tent camping.
Historical SignificanceSwan Lake Campground sits within the storied Flathead National Forest, a landscape that has shaped Montana's identity for generations. This corner of Big Sky Country tells the tale of America's conservation legacy, where pristine wilderness has been preserved for future generations to explore and cherish. The campground serves as your gateway to some of the West's most iconic destinations – the awe-inspiring Glacier National Park lies within reach to the north, while the nearby Swan River National Wildlife Refuge protects critical habitat for countless species. Here, you're camping in the footsteps of early explorers, Native American tribes, and generations of outdoor enthusiasts who have found solace in these ancient forests.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Swan Lake delivers the Montana mountain experience at its finest, with brilliantly clear skies stretching endlessly above and comfortable daytime temperatures that invite exploration. As evening approaches, the air takes on a refreshing crispness that makes gathering around the campfire all the more memorable. The region's characteristically low humidity and minimal summer precipitation create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, while star-filled nights offer spectacular celestial displays. Come winter, the landscape transforms into a snow-laden wonderland – beautiful to behold but challenging for camping, making late spring through early fall the sweet spot for your Swan Lake adventure.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable mountain elevation, Swan Lake Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and that authentic high-country feel that makes Montana camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of morning mist rising from Swan Lake, while the jagged peaks of the Swan Mountain Range pierce the dawn sky, their snow-covered summits glowing pink in the early light. This is the daily spectacle at Swan Lake Campground, where towering conifers create a living cathedral around your campsite. The landscape here is quintessential Rocky Mountain majesty – dense forests of pine, fir, and larch shelter an incredible array of wildlife. Lucky visitors might glimpse the elusive lynx padding silently through the underbrush, while the presence of grizzly bears reminds us we're guests in a truly wild place. Below the surface of Swan Lake, native bull trout patrol the cool depths, part of an ecosystem that remains remarkably intact and thriving.
Geological RegionSwan Lake Campground rests in one of North America's most dramatic geological theaters – the Rocky Mountains of northwest Montana. Here, within the embrace of the Flathead National Forest, ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking contrasts. Towering conifers blanket the lower slopes while the craggy, snow-capped peaks of the Swan Mountain Range create a spectacular backdrop that seems almost painted against the Montana sky. This is where the continent's spine reveals itself in full glory, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of geological artistry. The interplay of forest, mountain, and water creates a diverse ecosystem that supports everything from tiny wildflowers to magnificent grizzly bears, making every moment here a lesson in the raw power and delicate balance of the natural world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include boat ramps, dock, campsites, parking areas, picnic tables, and vault toilets. The campground is designed to be ADA-compliant.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and can accommodate large RVs and trailers. Several reviewers mention the paved and level sites, with one stating, "The RV sites were large and level."
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer good privacy, particularly on Birch Loop. "The sites are large enough that you have neighbors but you can’t really hear or see them," according to one user.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBirch Loop sites are ideal for privacy and shade. Ponderosa Loop sites offer space and easy maneuverability for RVs.
Best CampsitesSite 15 in Birch Loop is noted for privacy and proximity to the lake. Group site G1 is highly rated for its spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Stay Limit
16 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 8 people per site for individual sites
- group site accommodates up to 100 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 100 people. Rates vary depending on group size: $150 per night for 1-25 people, up to $350 per night for 76-100 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two loops: Birch Loop (clustered and shaded sites) and Ponderosa Loop (spacious and open sites). Group site G1 is located at the back of the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 15 - October 6. Reservations can be made starting from June 22 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in Availability14 out of 38 sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Walk-up sites are identified with a 'W' on campsite markers.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least 4 days prior to arrival for a full refund minus a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night’s recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Swan Lake Campground provides a variety of recreational activities. "Campers and day-use visitors have access to a boat ramp and a beach. Both power and non-motorized boating is permitted." Kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals are available, although one reviewer mentioned kiosks being unstaffed at times. Fishing opportunities are plentiful, including trout, Kokanee salmon, and Northern Pike. "Anglers can fish for several kinds of trout as well as Kokanee salmon and Northern Pike." There are bike lanes and hiking trails within proximity.
Hiking
Hiking trails and bike lanes wind throughout the campground. "Close to tons of hiking trails and outdoor activities," as noted by a reviewer.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include trout, Kokanee salmon, and Northern Pike. Reviewers generally found the fishing good, although no specifics on fishing amenities are mentioned.Swimming
Swimming areas are available across the highway at the lake. "There is an area across the highway where you can swim," according to one reviewer.Biking
Bike lanes run through the campground, providing opportunities for recreational biking.Boating
Both power and non-motorized boating is permitted. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are offered, though one reviewer mentioned the kiosk was unstaffed at times.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located near Swan River National Wildlife Refuge, offering a wildlife and bird observation area.Beach activities
The beach is accessible across the highway from the campground, with sandy areas for sunbathing and lake access.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed in the sources.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Rentals are available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood is sold on-site for $6 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated; reviews suggest noise from generators is a concern.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife like bears and fast-moving vehicles on the road near the lake access.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The closest emergency services are located in Kalispell, MT (approximately 40 miles away), which include hospitals and police stations. The campground host can provide immediate assistance and contact information for emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 6.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present but not elaborated on in detail in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is across the road from Swan Lake, offering beach access, a boat ramp, and water activities like kayak rentals.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of showers, vault toilet odor, and generator noise during late hours. Some users also noted crossing the highway to access the lake as inconvenient.
HostHosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, although some reviews mention occasional rudeness or unavailability.
Campground Map
21770 Hwy 83, Swan Lake, MT 59911
Driving directionsFrom Bigfork, Montana, take State Route 209 east for 4.9 miles to Swan Lake/State Route 83. Turn right and go 10.9 miles to the campground sign. Turn left at the sign into the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads, with no reported seasonal closures. The roads are suitable for most vehicles, but there is no dump station on site.Nearby places
Bigfork, MT (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Kalispell, MT (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes)
Glacier National Park (approximately 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
A local gas station near Swan Lake offers basic supplies. For more extensive needs, Bigfork, MT (15 miles away) has grocery stores and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
107 reviews
Swan Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Swan Lake Campground range from glowing praise for cleanliness and spacious sites to complaints about management and lack of amenities for tent campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 107 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean bathrooms, large and private campsites, friendly hosts, and convenient access to the lake. "The campground was well-kept, clean, and beautiful," according to one...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include lack of showers, odor in vault toilets, unhelpful camp hosts, and the need to cross a highway to access the lake. "The vault toilets STINK," and "Crossing the road to get...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many reviewers suggest bringing an RV or trailer as the campground lacks tent-friendly amenities. "This is not a campground I would recommend for tents," stated one user.
Based on 107 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to lake activities. However, some complaints about high traffic, generator noise, and black flies are noted during peak season.
Based on 107 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great, well maintained campground. Right across the street from the Swan Lake day use area." "No cell service, which was absolutely needed and warranted." "Cleanest bathrooms ever seen in a...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight sites like 024 and 038 as large and clean. "Sleeping to the sounds of the rushing river was so wonderful." Conversely, sites near vault toilets are marked as...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible amenities are praised, including paved roads and accessible campsites. "Accessible boat ramps and docks are available."
Based on 107 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, though one reviewer expressed concern about camp hosts keeping aggressive dogs locked in cars.
Based on 107 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025