Lakeside Lolo Campground (Mt)
4.656 reviewsSeeley Lake Ranger District, 3583 MT-HWY 83 N., SEELEY LAKE, MT 59868, USA
Lakeside Lolo Campground (Mt)
$10.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Facility rates vary by season and site type, ranging between $10 for standard and tent-only sites to $50 for group campsites during peak season.
About this campground
Discover a tranquil mountain retreat at Lakeside Campground, where the pristine waters of Lake Alva meet the towering pines of Montana's Lolo National Forest. This southern shoreline gem invites you to wake up to the haunting calls of loons, spend sun-drenched days swimming in crystal-clear waters, and cast your line into waters teeming with fish. With direct beach access and thoughtfully shaded campsites, this peaceful sanctuary offers the perfect blend of water recreation and forest serenity, all while serving as a guardian to protected loon nesting areas that make this corner of Montana truly special.
The campground offers a mixture of group camping, individual RV/tent sites, and tent-only sites. These cater to different camping needs and provide lakefront access and privacy.
Historical SignificanceWhile Lakeside Campground may not bear ancient markings or historic monuments, its significance lies in its role as a modern conservation success story. This peaceful retreat represents Montana's commitment to preserving natural habitats while providing sustainable recreation opportunities for generations to come.
Weather and SeasonsAt 4,200 feet elevation, Lakeside Campground enjoys a delightful mountain climate that offers respite from summer's heat. Even on the warmest days, cool mountain breezes sweep across Lake Alva, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. With remarkably low precipitation rates averaging just 3.37% chance of rain and predominantly clear, azure skies stretching overhead, you can count on ideal weather for your camping experience. The dry conditions and brilliant sunshine make this an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination throughout the warm season.
ElevationPerched at 4,200 feet above sea level, Lakeside Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect, with temperatures typically running 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The altitude contributes to spectacular star-gazing opportunities and those crisp, invigorating mornings that make mountain camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryLake Alva sparkles like a sapphire jewel amid the emerald embrace of Lolo National Forest, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your camping adventure. Towering pines and firs provide natural shade canopies over campsites, while the lake's glassy surface reflects the surrounding mountain peaks in perfect mirror images. During the magical months of May and June, the wilderness soundtrack features the unforgettable wails and tremolos of nesting loons—a sound that will echo in your memories long after you've returned home. The protected habitat ensures these magnificent birds thrive undisturbed, while the surrounding forest landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas create an ever-changing tableau of natural beauty.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Montana's Lolo National Forest, Lakeside Campground occupies a unique ecological niche where montane forests meet alpine lake environments. At 4,200 feet elevation, this region showcases the geological diversity of western Montana, where ancient glacial activity carved out Lake Alva's basin and left behind a landscape of rolling forests, rocky outcroppings, and pristine waters. The area serves as a critical sanctuary for loons, whose protected nesting grounds make this one of Montana's most important avian conservation areas. This harmonious blend of geological features creates not just a camping destination, but a living classroom of mountain ecology.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking, accessible vault toilets, and an accessible group campsite are available for reservation.
Sites SizeThe group campsite accommodates up to 25 people, 4 RVs, and 6 vehicles. Individual sites are noted for being large and clean, with several offering lakefront access.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide significant privacy, as one reviewer stated, 'Great beach front campsites, large and private.'
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the beach for lake views and proximity to water activities.
Best CampsitesSome user reviews identify beach-front sites as the most desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The group site allows up to 25 people, while individual sites accommodate fewer guests.
Groups
The accessible group campsite can accommodate up to 25 people, including 4 RVs and 6 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features one group site, three individual RV/tent sites, and one tent-only site.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. Outside of these dates, access is closed as roads are not plowed and gates are closed.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability operates briefly during June 20-21, 2025. Reservations are required during the rest of the peak season.
Cancellation PolicyGuests can cancel reservations any time before arrival. Standard cancellations incur a $10 fee, while late cancellations (within 24 hours of check-in for individual sites, or within 14 days for group sites) also forfeit the first night’s fee. On-site personnel discretion applies to late cancellations or modifications.
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
Lakeside Lolo Campground offers a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, hiking, berry picking, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boating, non-motorized boating, photography, star gazing, and beachcombing. The lake's 'No-Wake' regulation ensures quieter waters for recreation.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the nearby Mission Mountain Wilderness Area, which is known for its scenic views, vertical cliffs, and jagged peaks.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Kokanee salmon, suckers, whitefish, pike, trout, and perch in Lake Alva. A boat ramp is available for anglers at the nearby Lake Alva Campground.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at Lake Alva, with a designated swimming beach available at Lake Alva Campground, a mile north on Highway 83.Biking
Biking trails are not explicitly detailed but are listed among the recreational activities available at the campground.Boating
Boating activities include motorized boating under 'No-Wake' regulations and non-motorized options suitable for early morning or evening hours.Wildlife viewing
The lake hosts a loon population with protected nesting areas during May and June. Their calls often resonate through the campground, enhancing the wildlife viewing experience.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming at Lake Alva, accessible from the nearby Lake Alva Campground.Winter Activities
No information regarding winter activities is provided for Lakeside Lolo Campground.Water Sports
Water sports available include kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, and non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be extinguished completely before being left unattended.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area; visitors are advised to store attractants securely in locked vehicles or bear-resistant containers.
Active alertsNo current alerts are mentioned.
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
Emergency services are likely accessed in Seeley Lake, which is approximately 10 miles south. Specific details about hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 01, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is not provided; campers are required to pack out their waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly located on Lake Alva, facilitating swimming, fishing, and boating activities.
Common complaintsSome visitors note road noise due to the campground’s proximity to Highway 83. Additionally, the lack of drinking water and trash collection services inconveniences some campers.
HostCampground hosts are available on-site 24 hours a day.
Campground Map
Seeley Lake Ranger District, 3583 MT-HWY 83 N., SEELEY LAKE, MT 59868, USA
Driving directionsFrom the junction of Montana Highways 200 and 83 (locally referred to as Clearwater Junction), travel north on Highway 83 for approximately 15 miles to the town of Seeley Lake. Continue north on Highway 83 for 9.9 miles. The campground entrance is on the west side of the highway.
The campground is accessible from Highway 83, which is paved and well-maintained. Access to the campground in early spring and late fall is closed, as roads are not plowed and the gate remains closed.Nearby places
Seeley Lake (10 miles south, approximately 15 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
The town of Seeley Lake offers various services including boat, canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals. Additional details about groceries, camping supplies, or fuel are not available.
Camper Reviews
4.7
6 reviews
Lakeside Lolo Campground (Mt) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Lakeside Lolo Campground are positive, with an average sentiment of 4.33 for camping-specific reviews. Highlights include the campground's scenic beauty, spacious sites, and wildlife presence.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the campground's lakefront sites, privacy, and clean facilities. One user noted, 'Great beach front campsites, large and private.' Another exclaimed, 'My new favorite spot!'
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some campers noted the proximity to the road and the resulting noise. 'If it wasn't so close to the road it would be one of the best campgrounds around,' remarked one reviewer.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking early due to high demand during peak seasons. Bringing your own potable water is necessary, as the campground does not provide drinking water.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during summer months when temperatures are cool and wildlife like loons are active. Early spring and late fall access are restricted due to unplowed roads and closed...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great beach front campsites, large and private.' - Roger Marshall
2. 'It’s still the prettiest around.' - Jean Fisher
3. 'We camped here on our honeymoon 27 years ago, it has changed but it's...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific mentions include campsite LSS2, described by one user as 'fun and relaxing,' with a 5-star rating.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include parking, vault toilets, and the group campsite. However, no user reviews specifically address accessibility concerns.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but dogs must be leashed. No specific reviews highlight pet-friendly features.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025