Van Lake Campground And Day Use
05 reviews/ Turn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882
Van Lake Campground And Day Use
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground is free of charge.
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About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of Flathead National Forest, this secluded campground offers visitors a pristine escape into Montana's untamed wilderness. Spanning nearly 64 acres of protected forest land, the site provides an intimate connection with nature where towering pines whisper ancient stories and crystal-clear mountain air rejuvenates the soul.
Van Lake Campground primarily supports dispersed camping, with six minimally developed campsites.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds centuries of stories, from the indigenous peoples who first traversed these mountain passes to the early settlers and loggers who helped shape Montana's frontier heritage. The surrounding Flathead National Forest has long served as a vital corridor for wildlife and a testament to America's conservation legacy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Montana's changing seasons, from wildflower-dotted summers perfect for hiking and wildlife watching to crisp autumn days painted in gold and amber. Spring brings rushing snowmelt and vibrant new growth, while winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures.
ElevationPerched at an elevation that offers cooler summer temperatures and stunning panoramic views, the campground provides a refreshing retreat from valley heat. The altitude creates perfect conditions for diverse plant life and offers visitors spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas across the forested ridgelines.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient forests meet meadow clearings, creating a tapestry of ecosystems teeming with life. Majestic conifers provide natural cathedral-like canopies, while nearby streams babble with glacial runoff. Keep your eyes peeled for resident wildlife including deer, black bears, and countless bird species that call this forest home.
Geological RegionFlathead National Forest, Montana - a spectacular 2.4 million-acre wilderness showcasing the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies. This geological wonderland features dramatic mountain peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems carved by ancient glaciers, offering visitors an authentic Montana wilderness experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground's accessibility features are not specifically mentioned in the data.
Sites SizeThe campground includes six designated campsites with tent pads.
Sites PrivacyReviews mention a peaceful and quiet setting, implying some level of privacy at the sites.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 day
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed Season16
Walk-in AvailabilityStyle free of Trail
Cancellation PolicyNot relevant given entire free camping
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Van Lake Campground offers activities such as fishing, non-motorized boating, and opportunities for hunting. The tranquil setting of the lake allows visitors to engage in water-related recreation and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Fishing
Fishing is available at Van Lake. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Boating
Only non-motorized boating is allowed. Visitors can make use of the gravel boat ramp to access Van Lake.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round but is inaccessible during heavy snow, suggesting potential for snowshoeing or winter scenery.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are possible given the allowance for non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.7 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
Swan Lake Ranger Station, 200 Ranger Station Road, Bigfork, MT 59911. Phone: (406) 837-7500.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the data.
Campground Map
/ Turn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882
Driving directionsTurn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882. Follow road to the end.
Accessible via Van Lake Rd #9882 from HWY 83 at mile marker 54.6. It is not accessible during heavy snow.Nearby places
Bigfork, MT is the nearest city.
Nearby supplies
Swan Lake Ranger Station offers limited visitor information during weekdays. For grocery and camping supplies, users would need to inquire further.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Van Lake Campground And Day Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews consistently praise the campground for its peace, quiet, and scenic surroundings. Many visitors appreciated the lack of crowds and the tranquil ambiance.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlighted the tranquility, scenic views, and the absence of crowds. One reviewer noted, 'Enjoyed an amazing sunset and sunrise, we had the place to ourselves.' Another stated, 'The joy was...
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Common Concerns
No significant complaints were noted in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot and bring all necessary supplies, as there are no fees and amenities are limited. Carry drinking water since potable water is not available.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is most popular in the warmer months, with visitors noting the beauty of sunsets and the serene environment. Snow may render the campground inaccessible in winter.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Enjoyed an amazing sunset and sunrise, we had the place to ourselves.' - Lindsey Daniels. 2. 'Beautiful camp ground. So peaceful and quiet.' - John Wayne Priest. 3. 'The joy was that it was...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews beyond the general praise for the six campsites were provided.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features and experiences were not mentioned in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related policies and experiences were not mentioned in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025