North Dickey Lake
4.5232 reviewsEureka Ranger Station, 949 US Hwy 93 N, Eureka, MT, 59917, USA
North Dickey Lake
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
$16 per night for standard non-electric sites during both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional fees include a $10 change fee and $10 cancellation fee for reservations. Late cancellation could also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
About this campground
Escape to North Dickey Lake Campground, where 800 acres of pristine mountain water mirror the surrounding larch and fir forests. This peaceful retreat welcomes both tent campers and RV travelers seeking adventure in northwestern Montana's wilderness. Spend your days paddling across crystal-clear waters, exploring forest trails, or joining ranger-led programs that bring the natural world to life during the warm summer months.
Camping options include tent and RV sites. Five sites are reservable, with the rest available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificancePerched near the invisible line that divides the United States and Canada, this campground serves as a gateway to both international adventure and the legendary Glacier National Park. History buffs and curious travelers will discover the unexpected Stonehenge Airplane Museum nearby—a hidden gem that one visitor aptly called a 'diamond in the rough,' adding an intriguing cultural dimension to your outdoor escape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with brilliantly clear skies and refreshingly moderate temperatures that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. As autumn fades, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, bringing heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures that create a dramatically different character. The sweet spot for camping stretches from late spring through early autumn, when wildflowers bloom and the lake beckons swimmers and paddlers alike.
ElevationAt 3,100 feet above sea level, the campground occupies that perfect elevation where summer heat gives way to mountain coolness. This natural air conditioning creates comfortable conditions for hiking and ensures restful nights under star-filled skies, even during the warmest months.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering larch and fir trees create a natural cathedral around the campground, their branches framing spectacular views of Dickey Lake's 800-acre expanse. During spring and early summer mornings, the haunting calls of loons echo across the water, creating an unforgettable wilderness soundtrack that stays with visitors long after they've returned home.
Geological RegionTucked into the forested mountains of northwestern Montana, this 3,100-foot elevation sanctuary showcases the region's signature landscape of evergreen forests and alpine lakes. The surrounding terrain of larch and fir-covered slopes creates a natural amphitheater around the 800-acre lake, offering a quintessential Rocky Mountain experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible vault toilets and an accessible trail (Dickey Lake Overlook Trail) leading to a viewing platform.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious by some users, such as "large campsites." However, others note tight spacing at certain sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies, with some reviews stating they are not very private, while others appreciate the spacing between sites.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 25 is noted for backing up directly to the lake, while Site 23 has a spacious layout but is near the road. Site 20 is described as a favorite for its beauty and location.
Best CampsitesUser reviews favor sites 25, 20, and 23 for spaciousness, lake views, and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 16 consecutive nights per visit and 48 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are not explicitly specified, but sites are spacious enough for families.
Groups
Group camping sites are not mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 24 sites spread across gravel surfaces, with 5 reservable sites and 19 first-come, first-served sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 23 through September 1 for reservations; first-come, first-served sites available September 12-30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFive sites are reservable, and the remaining 19 are first-come, first-served. Walk-up sites are prohibited from being saved and are released at 2 PM each day if unoccupied.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival, incurring a $10 cancellation fee plus potential forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, water sports, swimming, boating, and educational programs during the summer. "The lake is absolutely beautiful," noted multiple reviewers, offering activities like fishing for kokanee salmon, kamloop, and rainbow trout.
Hiking
Hiking trails include the accessible Dickey Lake Overlook Trail (0.5 miles), leading to a viewing platform with lake views. Another trail heads from the campground to Mt. Marston.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catches of kokanee salmon, kamloop, and rainbow trout. User reviews describe the lake as "beautiful" and ideal for fishing.Swimming
Swimming areas include a grassy beach at South Dickey Day Use area. User reviews highlight the "clear and blue" water, likening it to the Caribbean.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on nearby trails, including the accessible Dickey Lake Overlook Trail.Boating
Boating is possible on Dickey Lake, with opportunities for water skiing. Some users were disappointed about a boat ramp closure during their stay.Beach activities
Beach activities are available at South Dickey Day Use area, which includes a grassy beach popular for swimming.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered during the summer months.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Water skiing and other sports are available at Dickey Lake. Several reviews mention the lake's suitability for jet skiing and boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced after midnight.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad traffic noise from Highway 93 can disrupt the serenity. Late summer weekends may see increased noise from boaters and jet skiers.
Active alertsBoat ramp closure reported during mid-June for repair; unresolved through July.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.4 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
Eureka Ranger Station (13 miles north); Eureka Fire and Rescue; nearest hospital in Eureka.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 1
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Dickey Lake, offering easy access to water activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Highway 93 and train sounds are common issues mentioned by reviewers. Late-night noise from groups occasionally disturbs the peace.
HostThe current camp host, 'Boots,' is described as warm, friendly, and knowledgeable, providing recommendations for local activities.
Campground Map
Eureka Ranger Station, 949 US Hwy 93 N, Eureka, MT, 59917, USA
Driving directionsFrom Eureka, travel south on Highway 93 for approximately 13 miles to Fortine. Continue south on Highway 93 for over a mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible from Highway 93, which is heavily traveled and may experience traffic noise. Access roads are gravel and suitable for both tents and RVs but do not offer utility hookups.Nearby places
Eureka (13 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Fortine (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Glacier National Park Entrance (65 miles, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes)
Canadian Border (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
General store with fuel and groceries located 3 miles north
small restaurant and coffee shop located 2 miles west of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
32 reviews
North Dickey Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campground for its beauty, cleanliness, and accessibility. Positive themes include the lake's stunning vistas, clean facilities, and welcoming hosts. Some complaints center around noise from nearby roads, boat ramp closures, and occupied reserved sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include "clean and well-kept" facilities, "beautiful" lake views, and attentive hosts. The campground environment is described as "serene" and "relaxing," with...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from Highway 93 and train tracks, boat ramp closures, and a high number of reserved sites sitting unused. Issues with occupied reserved sites were also reported.
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from users include booking early for reserved sites, visiting the nearby Stonehenge Airplane Museum, and taking advantage of the outlook trail. They also suggest bringing earplugs to...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are highlighted for hearing loons and enjoying quieter environments. Summer offers warm lake conditions for swimming but can be noisy due to boaters and jet skiers.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolutely the most beautiful lake in God's creation." "The camp host, Boots, is an absolute treasure." "I was disappointed to see a Wi-Fi router at the host site, blasting into the whole...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 20: Described as tight. Site 25: Beautiful with lake access, but noise issues reported. Site 9: Campsite noted for its proximity to water facilities and gorgeous lake views.
Based on 32 reviewsAccessibility Features
The accessible Dickey Lake Overlook Trail and vault toilets are appreciated by users. However, no additional accessibility features were mentioned.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not explicitly discussed in the provided materials or reviews.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025