How much does camping cost at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

Camping fees at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park range from $25-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park is open Open during camping season; specific dates are not provided.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park offers: Restrooms, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

Popular activities at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park include Hiking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

Q: Can I have a campfire at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

Fire policies at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park: Campfires are allowed only in designated areas. Fireworks are strictly prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.37

73 reviews

17768 MT Hwy 93, Lakeside, Montana, 59922, United States

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Montana Summer Camping Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

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Quick Facts

3,176 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open during camping ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Montana State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

3,176 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open during camping ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Montana State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

$25.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

ADA-designated campsites require proof of disability upon arrival. Reservation fees are non-transferable and cancellation penalties apply if...

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

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What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 73 reviews

411 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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Some mention

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"The West Shore Unit of Flathead Lake State Park receives mostly positive reviews for its tranquility, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Visitors particularly appreciate the friendly camp hosts, well-maintained facilities, and scenic views."

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Campground Map

17768 MT Hwy 93, Lakeside, Montana, 59922, United States

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

17768 MT Hwy 93, Lakeside, Montana, 59922, United States

Nearby places

Lakeside (5.5 miles), Kalispell (null), Polson (null)

Nearby supplies

Supplies for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be found in Lakeside, located 5.5 miles away. Specific store information is not provided.

Best Time to Camp at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

Summer brings daytime highs between 65 and 85°F, with cool nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s. The lake is warmest and most accessible for swimming, boating, and fishing during these months, and trailheads are generally snow-free. Services are fully staffed, but sites fill fast. Winter blankets the forest in snow and drops temperatures significantly. Hornets can be a nuisance in summer. Multiple reviewers recommend bringing traps.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 4% in MT

Summer gets most positive reviews for warm weather, boating and picnicking.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open during camping season; specific dates are not provided.

About West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

West Shore Unit sits on the western edge of Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. The campground offers mixed tent and RV sites with electric hookups, vault toilets, and a boat dock for lake access. Sites run $25-35 per night and book up quickly in summer, especially waterfront spots.

The West Shore Unit of Flathead Lake State Park accommodates various forms of camping, including RVs and tent camping. It is described as clean, quiet, and ideally suited for a peaceful camping experience.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs between 65 and 85°F, with cool nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s. The lake is warmest and most accessible for swimming, boating, and fishing during these months, and trailheads are generally snow-free. Services are fully staffed, but sites fill fast. Winter blankets the forest in snow and drops temperatures significantly. Hornets can be a nuisance in summer. Multiple reviewers recommend bringing traps.

ElevationElevation data is not specified.

Natural Features and SceneryGlacially carved rock outcrops slope down to a rocky beach along Flathead Lake's shore. The campground sits at 3,176 feet elevation beneath a canopy of fir, pine, and larch. Views stretch across the lake to distant mountain ranges. The shoreline is rocky rather than sandy. Better for exploration than lounging. One reviewer described the scenery as "absolutely gorgeous," though others noted the lack of traditional beach access as a downside.

Geological RegionWest Shore Unit showcases the raw power of glacial artistry, where massive ice sheets once carved today's stunning landscape. The campground's distinctive rock outcrops tell a story millions of years in the making, while the surrounding forest ecosystem thrives in the rich soils left behind by retreating glaciers. This unique geological setting, combined with panoramic views of Flathead Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—and the surrounding mountain ranges, creates an outdoor classroom where visitors can witness the ongoing dialogue between earth, water, and sky.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

The maximum stay is limited to eight (8) guests per single campsite and sixteen (16) guests for double sites.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum capacity per site is eight (8) guests.

Groups

Group sites are not mentioned in the source materials.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has two loops, A and B. Loop B offers larger, more spacious sites. Overall site size is adequate but on the smaller side. One reviewer noted sites are "a little small, but very nice." Privacy varies depending on your spot.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Montana State Parks’ website or by contacting the park staff directly.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served walk-up availability is not discussed.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable, and cancellations may result in penalties. Proof of disability is required for ADA sites.

AccessibilityThe campground has ADA-designated campsites that require proof of eligibility. A user review mentions, "Does have disability camp area. Trail to water edge.

Site SizeCampground sites were generally described as adequate, with one user noting, "Good-size sites, clean bathrooms. Awesome lake views.

PrivacyMixed privacy levels are reported. One user stated, "More privacy, better views, cleaner restrooms," while another highlighted, "Sites are a little small, but very nice.

Recommended SitesLoop B campsites are larger and offer electrical hookups. Sites close to the lake provide great views but may have hornet issues during summer.

Need help booking West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park?

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

West Shore Unit offers various recreational activities centered around its proximity to Flathead Lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. User reviews frequently praise the campground's hiking trails and lake access. One user stated, "Awesome views of the lake. During the camping season the staff is friendly and helpful."

Hiking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are frequently sighted. Visitors are reminded to carry appropriate safety equipment and properly store food. Hornets have been reported during summer months.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only in designated areas. Fireworks are strictly prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesIn case of emergencies, visitors are instructed to dial 911. The nearest ranger station can be contacted at 406-844-3044 for non-emergency assistance.

Trash & RecyclingBears are noted in the area, and all trash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters. Official sources emphasize this to avoid attracting wildlife.

Water FeaturesLocated beside Flathead Lake, which is accessible for swimming, boating, and fishing. A small dock is available for launching boats.

Camp HostThe campground hosts are frequently complimented for their friendly and helpful demeanor, as well as for maintaining clean facilities.

Weather at West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

73 reviews

Recommended

West Shore Unit - Flathead Lake State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The West Shore Unit of Flathead Lake State Park receives mostly positive reviews for its tranquility, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Visitors particularly appreciate the friendly camp hosts, well-maintained facilities, and scenic views.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors praise the clean facilities, helpful camp hosts, and beautiful lakeside views. Common themes include the quiet atmosphere and well-spaced campsites.

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Some visitors noted the lack of showers and flush toilets, limited cell phone service, and the rocky shoreline, which restricts beach activities.

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing hornet traps during the summer and being prepared for bears by disposing of trash in bear-proof dumpsters. One user suggested, "Drive to beach or walk. Bathrooms and water...

Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer receives the most positive reviews for its warm weather and suitability for boating and picnicking. Some users noted fewer visitors in winter, which contributes to a very quiet and peaceful...

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Very quiet and pleasant campground with easy access to the water." "Great campground! Clean, quiet, beautiful views of Flathead Lake." "Nice little state park campground right on Flathead Lake....

Based on 73 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews note differences in privacy and size. One user mentioned, "B13 set on the hill which was nice. Loved the grills over the fire." Another highlighted, "Loop A-13, good site. Trees...

Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are noted positively. One reviewer mentioned, "Does have disability camp area. Trail to water edge." Another highlighted the helpfulness of the staff for disabled visitors.

Based on 73 reviews