Park Lake Campground
4.6414 reviews.
Park Lake Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
$15 per night for a single site. Additional vehicle costs $5 per night (2 vehicle limit/site). Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites occupied by the pass holder only.
About this campground
Nestled beside a pristine mountain lake, Park Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking refuge from the everyday hustle. Here, mornings begin with the gentle splash of cutthroat and grayling trout breaking the mirror-like surface, while evenings fade into star-studded serenity. Whether you're paddling a kayak across glassy waters, casting a line from the shoreline, or simply settling into a lakeside picnic, this tranquil retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors consistently rave about the campground's peaceful atmosphere and easy lake access, making it a cherished destination for those who appreciate nature's quieter moments.
Park Lake Campground supports diverse camping styles, including tent camping, trailer camping, and potentially group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific stories of Park Lake's past remain untold in official records, the land itself whispers of countless generations who have found solace along these shores.
Weather and SeasonsPark Lake transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own magic to this mountain sanctuary. Summer reigns supreme for camping, with comfortable temperatures reaching a pleasant 77°F under predominantly clear skies—perfect for long days by the water and cozy evenings around the campfire. As autumn arrives, the landscape shifts to a tapestry of changing colors, though visitors should prepare for unpredictable weather mixing rain with early snow. Winter blankets the area in pristine white, with frequent snowfall creating a wonderland for those hardy enough to brave the cold. Spring emerges gradually, bringing a mix of rain and lingering snow as nature awakens from its winter slumber.
ElevationThough exact elevation details remain unspecified, Park Lake's mountain setting provides that crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures characteristic of higher altitudes.
Natural Features and SceneryPark Lake serves as the crown jewel of this campground, its crystalline waters reflecting the surrounding forest like nature's own mirror. Towering trees frame the shoreline, creating intimate coves and shaded retreats throughout the day. When darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a breathtaking celestial display—what visitors poetically describe as 'diamond-like stars' scattered across the vast mountain sky. This harmonious blend of water, forest, and sky creates an atmosphere of profound beauty and tranquility that lingers long after you've returned home.
Geological RegionSet within a mountainous landscape, Park Lake Campground occupies a special corner of the wilderness where ancient geological forces carved out a perfect basin for this serene alpine lake. The surrounding peaks and valleys create a natural amphitheater that shelters the lake and campground, making it an ideal habitat for native trout species and a paradise for those seeking non-motorized water adventures. This unique mountain ecosystem supports both the recreational opportunities and the peaceful ambiance that define the Park Lake experience.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSome campsites accommodate trailers, while others are more suited to tents and hammocks, as highlighted in user reviews.
Sites Privacy'Campgrounds have good spacing between sites,' states one user review, while another mentions 'medium traffic' and 'medium privacy'. However, some reviews note that the campground can feel crowded at times.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake may offer better views and easier lake access. Sites with trees are recommended for setting up hammocks and tents.
Best Campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
The campground has a stay limit of 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 2 vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampgrounds have good spacing between sites, with some having room for trailers or hammocks. Picnic tables are available lakeside.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-May to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Forest Service platforms. Reservation fees apply.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be reservable; walk-up availability not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservation fees apply; rules about cancellation not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation opportunities at Park Lake Campground include fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. Fishing is a highlight, with the lake stocked with rainbow trout, cutthroat, and grayling trout. Non-motorized boating is possible with hand-launched boats. Several user reviews also mention the scenic beauty of the area, the starry night sky, and the serenity of the lake.
Hiking
While not detailed in the official documentation, user reviews frequently mention hiking as a popular activity. One user noted 'great area for ATV riding with miles of trails.'Fishing
Fishing is a significant draw, with the lake stocked with rainbow trout. A user review states, 'The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout. Great fishing.'Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed and encouraged. Official sources state that campers can 'hand launch non-motorized boats.'Water Sports
Mentioned as non-motorized boating, kayaking, or canoeing options are implied.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed.
- Quiet hours are .
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country, with both black and grizzly bears present. Users are advised to follow food storage regulations to avoid bear encounters.
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Helena likely houses the nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations (20 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season dates.
Trash and recyclingThere are 'no trash cans or dumpsters' on-site, according to user reviews. Campers are advised to 'pack it in, pack it out.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Park Lake, which is ideal for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention overcrowding, especially during peak times, and the close proximity of campsites. One review noted the difficulty in finding space for larger tents.
Host.
Campground Map
.
Driving directionsFrom Helena travel south on Interstate 15 for 8 miles, Exit interstate at the Clancy exit. Travel west 8 miles on the County Road and 6 miles west on Forest Road 4009 to the Park lake Campground.
Seasonal closures are not mentioned. It's recommended to drive cautiously on the Forest Road (6 miles west), which users have described as 'washboarded.'Nearby places
Helena (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Helena (20 miles away) is likely the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
Park Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The user reviews reflect a mixed experience at Park Lake Campground. Many campers praise the campground for its serene environment, scenic lake views, and activities like fishing and picnicking. However, some users have pointed out flaws such as limited trash facilities, crowded campsites during peak times, and accessibility challenges for larger tents.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
- Beautiful mountain lake with opportunities for fishing and boating.
- Serene and peaceful environment.
- Clear night skies and great star visibility.
- Spacious campsites with room for trailers or...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- No potable water on-site.
- Crowded during weekends or peak season.
- Lack of trash facilities requiring campers to pack out their waste.
- Some sites lack privacy or are difficult to pitch large...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own potable water.
- Be prepared with trash bags as there are no trash cans or dumpsters.
- Follow bear safety protocols, as black bears and grizzlies are present in the area.
- Consider...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews praise the serene and recreational opportunities, but some note overcrowding during peak season. Winter or off-season camping is not detailed in user reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Campgrounds have good spacing between camp sites.'
- 'Nice and quiet, good place to visit. Fires are allowed and it’s only eight dollars a night.'
- 'Beautiful. The stars were like diamonds in the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not provided, but some reviews suggest that certain sites are more spacious or suited for trailers.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned in the reviews or official sources.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not detailed in the official documentation or user reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025