Tally Lake Campground
4.40135 reviewsTALLY LAKE ROAD, WHITEFISH, MT 59937, USA
Tally Lake Campground
$22.00 - $325.00 / 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$325.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites are $22 per night. Group site fees vary: Pavilion Group Site (G1) costs $175-$325 depending on the group size (1-100 people). Group Site 39 costs $150 per night for 1-25 people.
About this campground
Escape to Tally Lake Campground, where 39 thoughtfully placed sites await beneath towering evergreens on the shores of Montana's deepest natural lake. This beloved Flathead National Forest gem seamlessly blends adventure with tranquility, offering both reservable havens and spontaneous walk-up spots for those who follow their wanderlust. Whether you're launching a kayak at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear depths, or gathering your group around the fire as stars emerge overhead, Tally Lake delivers the authentic Montana experience that keeps families returning year after year.
Tally Lake Campground accommodates various camping preferences, from tent and RV camping to group camping at designated sites. The natural forest setting and spacious campsites make it suitable for diverse camping experiences.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unveils Tally Lake at its finest, with crisp mountain mornings starting at 37°F that warm to comfortable 59°F afternoons perfect for water adventures. While the season brings its share of mosquitoes eager to join your evening gatherings and dust clouds that dance along the camp roads, these minor inconveniences fade against the backdrop of long daylight hours and endless outdoor possibilities.
ElevationElevation information not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of Western Larch and Douglas Fir, where ancient giants create a natural canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. At the heart of it all lies Tally Lake itself—a sapphire jewel whose pristine waters plunge to mysterious depths, offering mirror-like reflections at sunrise and rippling adventures by day. Keep your camera ready for the majestic sight of bald eagles soaring overhead or the delicate choreography of migratory birds skimming the water's surface.
Geological RegionTucked into the rugged highlands of northwestern Montana, this remarkable campground sits at the edge of geological wonder—Tally Lake, the state's deepest natural lake, carved by ancient forces into the mountain landscape. The surrounding forest of Western Larch and Douglas Fir stands as a testament to the region's rich ecological heritage, creating a perfect harmony between water, stone, and towering timber that defines the essence of Montana's untamed beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and drinking water facilities. Some reviewers noted that the campground is well-suited for individuals who require ADA accommodations, with comments like 'Great access for ADA folks!' and 'large sites and level ground.'
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and well-separated, providing ample room for tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy, with some reviewers describing them as 'semi-private' or 'secluded' due to the tall trees and natural barriers.
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the lake for better views and easier access to water activities.
Best CampsitesSite 13 is frequently mentioned as excellent. Larger sites are available for group camping.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
- 16 consecutive nights during a single visit
- 32 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two motorized vehicles per site allowed
- additional guests unspecified.
Groups
Group Site 39 and a Pavilion group site are available for reservations. Group Site 39 accommodates 1-25 people for $150 per night. The Pavilion group site has tiered rates: 1-50 people for $175 per night, 51-100 people for $325 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with spacious sites surrounded by dense trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to September 28 annually. Reservable from June 25 to September 28.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in Availability17 sites are designated for walk-up visitors. These are marked at the campground and cannot be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made in advance. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. No-shows are not eligible for a refund.
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
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tally Lake Campground provides a robust array of recreational activities. Visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake, spanning 1,326 acres, offers opportunities for water skiing and other aquatic recreation. The campground also features kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals.
Hiking
Hiking trails wind around the campground and lake, with some leading to elevated views of the area. Reviews highlight the scenic hikes, such as a 3-mile trail climbing 475 feet for panoramic views of Tally Lake.Fishing
The lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for kokanee salmon, various trout species, and northern pike. A dock facilitates access for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is popular in the lake, with a designated beach area offering easy water access. The water is described as clean and refreshing.Biking
Biking trails are available in and around the campground, offering an alternative way to explore the natural surroundings.Boating
Tally Lake supports boating activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Rentals for these are available on-site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, waterfowl, and bald eagles are frequently spotted around the campground, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.Beach activities
The beach area is well-maintained and offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and paddle sports. Some sections are described as busy, while others are more secluded.Winter Activities
The campground is inaccessible during winter months (October to April) due to undrivable road conditions.Water Sports
Water skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular water sports facilitated by the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from evening until morning.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes can be prevalent during summer. Wildlife such as squirrels may damage vehicle wiring.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 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
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Kalispell Regional Medical Center (~28 miles, 40 minutes); Whitefish Police Department (~10 miles, 20 minutes); Flathead Valley emergency services available within Whitefish.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 25 to September 28.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and camp hosts actively maintain cleanliness across the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Tally Lake, with access to a beach and boat ramp. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.
Common complaintsMosquitoes, dusty roads, and noisy generators are recurring concerns.
HostHosts are on-site and available to assist campers. Several reviews praise their helpfulness and friendliness.
Campground Map
TALLY LAKE ROAD, WHITEFISH, MT 59937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Whitefish, Montana, take US Rt. 93 north for 4 miles until you reach Twin Bridges Rd. Turn left onto Twin Bridges Rd. and travel 1.4 miles to the Tally Lake campground sign. Turn right after the sign, staying on Twin Bridges Rd., and proceed 1 mile to another campground sign at Farm to Market. Turn left onto Farm to Market and go 2 miles to Tally Lake Rd. Turn right onto Tally Lake Rd. (dirt) and go 9 miles to campground sign. Turn right at the sign into the campground.
The campground is accessible via a combination of paved and dirt roads. The final 9 miles on Tally Lake Rd are on a dirt road. Some reviews describe this road as long and dusty; others indicate it is well-maintained and manageable.Nearby places
Whitefish: 10 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Kalispell: 28 miles (~40 minutes)
Columbia Falls: 20 miles (~30 minutes)
Glacier National Park Entrance: ~40 miles (~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Whitefish (~10 miles, 20 minutes), including groceries, gas stations, and camping equipment stores. Firewood is sold at the campground but is subject to availability.
Camper Reviews
4.4
135 reviews
Tally Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Tally Lake Campground receives high praise for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and helpful camp hosts. The lake and recreational opportunities are standout features, though some reviews mention issues like dust, mosquitoes, and occasional noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 135 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users commend the clean and spacious campsites, friendly hosts, and the beautiful lake. Quotes like 'Wonderful and peaceful campsite' and 'Hosts were helpful and generous' highlight the positive...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road dust, mosquitoes, and maintenance issues such as full vault toilets during peak times. Some users also noted a lack of privacy between sites.
Based on 135 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and prepare for dusty conditions on the gravel roads. Consider renting kayaks or paddleboards for a unique lake experience.
Based on 135 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with visitors praising the lake's recreational activities and the shaded campsites. However, mosquitoes are particularly bothersome in early summer. Fall offers...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The lake itself is beautiful, and the camp sites were huge and well kept. We're hoping to come back again next summer!' - Amy Whitenack. 2. 'Great campground, been coming here my whole life....
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some visitors recommend specific sites for their proximity to the lake or privacy. For example, Site #13 is noted as 'awesome' and well-maintained. Site #25 is highlighted for its tranquility and...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews highlight the campground's consideration for ADA accessibility, with features like level ground and large sites accommodating medically equipped RVs.
Based on 135 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some users appreciated this, though there were complaints about off-leash dogs causing disturbances.
Based on 135 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025