Lake Alva Campground
4.3811 reviewsLake Alva Campground, North Shore of Lake Alva, Montana
Lake Alva Campground
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees are $20 per night for single sites (including up to two vehicles) and $50 per night for group sites (#42, #43). Additional vehicles cost $5 per night. A 50% discount is available for Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders for single campsites only.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine north shore of Lake Alva, this enchanting campground invites you to experience Montana's wilderness at its finest. Here, beneath a canopy of towering trees both ancient and young, you'll discover the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the lake's glassy surface, or simply watching eagles soar overhead, Lake Alva promises unforgettable moments. With two distinct camping loops—one that welcomes reservations and another for spontaneous adventurers seeking first-come, first-served sites—there's a spot waiting for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Lake Alva Campground provides RV and tent campsites, with group sites also available for larger gatherings. Primitive camping, cabins, and glamping are not offered.
Historical SignificanceLake Alva holds a special place in Montana's natural heritage as a vital link in the legendary 'Chain of Lakes.' This interconnected water system has long served as a sanctuary for some of North America's most majestic birds. The haunting calls of loons echo across the water, while magnificent trumpeter swans glide gracefully along the surface, continuing ancient patterns of life that have unfolded here for countless generations. This ecological treasure represents nature's delicate balance and the importance of preserving wild spaces.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 4,200 feet, Lake Alva offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat, with crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures that make for perfect camping conditions. From late spring through early fall, the campground comes alive as wildflowers bloom and wildlife emerges. As autumn arrives, golden larches paint the landscape before winter's snow blankets the region, transforming it into a peaceful wonderland that often limits access but rewards the hardy souls who venture here during the shoulder seasons.
ElevationAt 4,100 feet above sea level, Lake Alva Campground offers a mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean, and summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even on the warmest days. This elevation creates an ideal microclimate where morning mists dance across the lake and evening breezes carry the scent of pine and fir, providing natural air conditioning that makes for comfortable camping and restful nights under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of western larch, Douglas fir, and alder trees, where shafts of sunlight filter through the dense canopy to create an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow. The protected waters of Lake Alva serve as a nursery for nesting loons, their distinctive calls becoming the soundtrack to your stay. This rich ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife—from majestic elk grazing in meadows to black bears foraging for berries, while bald eagles patrol the skies above. Every trail promises potential encounters with nature's residents in their undisturbed habitat.
Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers over millennia, Lake Alva rests in a spectacular valley cradled between two of Montana's most dramatic mountain ranges—the rugged Swan Mountains to the east and the towering Mission Mountains to the west. This glacial masterpiece forms part of the remarkable 'Chain of Lakes,' a series of pristine waters connected by the meandering Clearwater River. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story written in stone and water, where massive ice sheets once sculpted the valleys and peaks that now frame your camping adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and a paved path leading to the swimming area, which transitions to a gravel trail. However, there is no designated disabled parking.
Sites SizeCampsites feature paved parking stalls and are generally spacious enough to provide some privacy, as noted in reviews.
Sites PrivacyThe combination of mature and young trees provides privacy between sites. Reviews highlight well-spaced sites that do not feel crowded.
Total Campsites59 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offer privacy due to dense tree cover. Sites closer to the lake provide easier access to water activities.
Best CampsitesGroup sites (#42, #43) are highlighted for larger parties.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles included per site.
Groups
Group sites (#42 and #43) can accommodate larger groups at $50 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains two loops: Loop 1 has 19 reservable sites, and Loop 2 has 20 first-come-first-serve sites. All sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and paved parking stalls.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May through October, depending on snow conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for Loop 1 can be made via Recreation.gov starting April 24, 2024.
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop 2 campsites are first-come, first-serve and can be paid for onsite by scanning a QR Code using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellation policies are not clearly defined in the materials provided.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The lake’s ‘no-wake’ rule ensures a peaceful environment, making it ideal for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Fishing
The lake supports fishing with species like cutthroat trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, northern pike, and kokanee salmon.Swimming
Swimming is available at a designated area noted to be gravel and grass. User reviews mention the lack of a true beach and limited size of the grassy area.Boating
Boating is allowed with both motorized and non-motorized options. The lake has a 'no-wake' speed restriction, and there is a concrete boat ramp for easy access.Wildlife viewing
The campground is a prime location for wildlife viewing, with species like white-tailed deer, elk, mountain goats, and various bird species, including loons and eagles. User reviews highlight the tranquil environment and bird-watching opportunities.Beach activities
Activities are limited due to the lack of a true sandy beach; the area is gravel and grass. However, the quiet environment allows for small-scale beach-related activities.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities, though the campground is open seasonally depending on snow.Water Sports
The 'no-wake' lake is ideal for non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings with grills are available at each site. Visitors are advised to follow fire safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include interactions with wildlife such as black and grizzly bears. Visitors are advised to follow bear safety protocols.
Active alertsHalf of the campground may be closed for renovations based on user reviews.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
The nearest emergency services (hospital, police station) are located in Seeley Lake, 11 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesFriday before Memorial Day through Tuesday after Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, but no specific mention of recycling facilities was found.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Alva, a 'no-wake' lake with a concrete boat ramp and swimming area.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include a lack of beach area, mosquito presence, and occasional generator noise.
HostCampground hosts are present 24 hours a day and provide services such as maintaining clean vault toilets and educating visitors about bear safety and fire awareness.
Campground Map
Lake Alva Campground, North Shore of Lake Alva, Montana
Driving directionsFrom Seeley Lake, MT, take State Rt. 83 north 11.2 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.4 miles to campground.
The campground is accessible via Montana Highway 83 with paved roads leading directly to the site. Road access is generally straightforward but may be impacted by snow during winter months.Nearby places
Seeley Lake: 11 miles, approximately 20 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and equipment rentals can be found in the town of Seeley Lake, 11 miles from the campground. Outfitters and rental information is available from the Seeley Lake Chamber of Commerce (phone: 1-406-677-2880).
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Lake Alva Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s peaceful environment, clean facilities, and well-spaced campsites. The ‘no-wake’ lake is frequently praised for its tranquility, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife observation.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, the tranquil ‘no-wake’ lake, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and availability of campfire wood. Privacy between campsites due to the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users mention the lack of a true beach, limited swimming area size, and issues with mosquitoes. One reviewer noted difficulty finding disabled parking and expressed a desire for bear lockers.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Future visitors are advised to bring bug spray due to mosquitoes, prepare for limited swimming space, and consider bringing cash or checks for payments as on-site facilities may not accept cards.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer sees the highest user activity, with reviews focusing on the lake’s calmness and camping experience. Off-peak seasons may offer fewer crowds but limited services.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Lake Alva's best feature is that it's a no-wake lake, which means it will be more peaceful than other lakes nearby.' 2. 'The birds here are amazing. We rolled in on motorcycles so I wished there...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites in Loop 1 are reservable during peak season, while Loop 2 remains first-come/first-serve. Group sites #42 and #43 are available for larger gatherings. No specific 'best' or 'worst' sites were...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One review notes the lack of designated disabled parking and a partially accessible path to the swimming area. Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025