Seeley Lake Campground
4.5232 reviewsSeeley Lake Campground, Boy Scout Road, Seeley Lake, Montana
Seeley Lake Campground
$5.00 - $20.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight camping costs $20 per night for single sites. Additional vehicles cost $5 per night. Visitors holding Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes get a 50% discount on single sites occupied by the pass holder (cash or check payments only).
About this campground
Where crystal-clear waters meet towering larch forests, Seeley Lake Campground beckons from the western shore of its namesake glacial lake. Cradled in a pristine valley between the dramatic Swan and Mission mountain ranges, this 29-site sanctuary offers front-row seats to some of Montana's most breathtaking scenery. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes complete with its own picnic table and fire ring, creating the perfect basecamp for days filled with swimming in refreshing mountain waters, casting lines for native trout, or simply soaking in the magnificent views of the Swan Range reflected in the lake's mirror-like surface.
Seeley Lake Campground accommodates tent camping and has 29 combined sites, including single and group settings. RV camping is not explicitly supported due to lack of pull-through sites.
Historical SignificanceSeeley Lake stands as a stunning testament to the ancient forces that shaped this landscape, one jewel in the spectacular 'Chain of Lakes' carved by massive glaciers millennia ago. Each spring, this pristine wilderness becomes even more special as common loons return to nest along its shores. Their haunting calls have echoed across these waters for countless generations, making May and June a time of both ecological importance and natural wonder that connects visitors to the timeless rhythms of the wild.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain paradise into a sun-drenched playground, where warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights perfect for campfire stories. The low humidity and typically clear skies of July and August create ideal conditions for every outdoor adventure imaginable. As winter approaches, the landscape dons a spectacular white coat, with snow blanketing the surrounding peaks. Early season visitors in late May and early June should note that certain areas may have restrictions to protect nesting loons during this critical time.
ElevationPerched at nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Swan Range valley where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even on summer's warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Western larch trees stand like ancient sentinels throughout the campground, their distinctive silhouettes framing postcard-perfect views of the Swan Range. Beneath this towering canopy, a vibrant understory bursts with native grasses, seasonal wildflowers, and flourishing shrubs that paint the landscape in ever-changing colors. As twilight falls, the ethereal calls of nesting loons drift across the water, creating an unforgettable wilderness symphony that lulls campers to sleep under star-studded skies.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground sits at the heart of a geological masterpiece, where the Swan and Mission mountain ranges stand guard over a valley sculpted by ice age glaciers. The Clearwater River threads through this 'Chain of Lakes' like a liquid lifeline, connecting these pristine waters in a continuous flow that has sustained both wildlife and wonder seekers for thousands of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility features is not specifically mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, but some reviews note limitations in parking space for larger campers combined with vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of privacy levels, with sites either overlooking the marsh or near the beach. User feedback suggests that some sites may feel clustered: "The spaces are not long enough to park any size camper with a vehicle, so that's the only negative I could see."
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the marsh provide scenic views but may attract more mosquitoes. Sites near the swim/play area are ideal for families with children.
Best CampsitesUser reviews indicate sites near the beach and swim area are popular, offering proximity to water activities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Campground is open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Campground is open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single site allows occupancy for up to 8 guests.
Groups
No specific details about group sites were provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures 29 campsites, arranged near a lake beach and marsh area. Sites are spacious and nestled among Western larch trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, closing on September 3.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including via its mobile app (Scan & Pay).
Walk-in AvailabilitySites that are unoccupied and do not have incoming reservations may be claimed using the Recreation.gov mobile app at the site itself.
Cancellation PolicyReservation fees apply on recreation.gov. Cancellation options depend on the platform's policies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Seeley Lake Campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. The Seth Diamond Interpretive Trail is available for hiking, though still under construction during the latest report. Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, with loons reported in the area. User reviews reinforce the appeal of outdoor activities: "Great camping, boating, and great beach!" and "Fantastic camping. Fire rings need to be replaced. Lots of huckleberry bushes for a good pancake breakfast. Beach is sandy. Large swimming area for the kids."
Hiking
The Seth Diamond Interpretive Trail offers a 0.6-mile loop trail for hikers. The trail was under construction at the time of the last report.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and northern pike. Several reviews highlighted fishing as a positive experience, although one user experienced theft of fishing equipment during their stay: "My fishing equipment got stolen out of our boat."Swimming
Swimming is available in designated beach areas. User reviews describe the beach as sandy and appealing for families with children.Boating
Boating is popular at Seeley Lake, with options for motorized and non-motorized boats. User reviews describe the beach and boat launch facilities positively: "Campground, boat launch and big beach with roped-off swimming area couldn't ask for much more in a public campground."Wildlife viewing
Loons are frequently observed at the campground and provide a unique wildlife viewing experience.Beach activities
Beach activities are well-regarded, with sandy areas and roped-off swimming. A review mentioned: "Great beaches for kiddos to play, awesome, spacious campsites near and far from the lake!"Winter Activities
Winter activities like snowshoeing are mentioned in user reviews. "Winter time is a great time to hike around the campground, although keep in mind, having snowshoes may make it easier to get around."Water Sports
Waterskiing and sailing are supported at Seeley Lake, along with kayaking and non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are provided at all campsites. Use is regulated by daily law enforcement patrols.
- Quiet hours are Generators should not be operated after dark. User reviews mention loud music disrupting quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, making adherence to food storage orders critical. Some user reviews mention loud music and theft incidents, as well as mosquitoes during certain times of year.
Active alertsBridge closure on Boy Scout Road restricts access from the south. Repairs to the campground's water system were completed in July 2024.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.7 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
Daily law enforcement patrols within the campground. The nearest sheriff's office and emergency services are in the town of Seeley Lake, approximately 4 miles southeast.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May to early September, specifically Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities were not explicitly described in available sources.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Seeley Lake with direct access to swimming, boating, and fishing. Some sites are near the marsh or swim/play area.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include theft, noise issues, congested parking, and mosquitoes during the summer. Lack of potable water is also a concern.
HostVolunteer campground hosts are available on-site and praised for their maintenance and assistance.
Campground Map
Seeley Lake Campground, Boy Scout Road, Seeley Lake, Montana
Driving directionsFrom the town of Seeley Lake, travel north on Highway 83 for 5 miles and then turn west on Boy Scout Road for approximately 4 miles. The campground entrance is on the left. Note: Currently, there is a bridge closure on Boy Scout Road impacting access from the south.
The campground can only be accessed from the north entrance of Boy Scout Road due to a bridge closure. The parking aprons are paved, but road closures may make navigation challenging.Nearby places
Seeley Lake: 4 miles southeast (approximately 8 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gas, sport rentals, and other supplies are available in Seeley Lake, 4 miles southeast.
Camper Reviews
4.5
32 reviews
Seeley Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Seeley Lake Campground present a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many reviews praise the scenic location and cleanliness, while some express dissatisfaction with noise levels, trash management, and generator use.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the campground's beauty, spacious sites, and clean facilities. Users appreciated the large Western larch trees and wildlife, describing it as "Amazing campground! Very...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise disturbances, generator use, trash in sites, and theft. One user noted: "Our fishing equipment got stolen... loud music till 2am! Nope never coming back!"
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from users include bringing snowshoes in winter, planning ahead due to high occupancy, and preparing for mosquitoes during certain seasons.
Based on 32 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal reviews highlight winter hiking and snowshoeing as favorable activities. Noise issues and mosquito presence were frequently noted during peak summer months.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Big beautiful trees. Good size camping sites." "Great beaches for kiddos to play, awesome spacious campsites near and far from the lake!" "Was our first time camping at this campground and our first...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users discuss differences between sites, such as proximity to the marsh, lake, or beach area. Sites near the water are preferred: "RV campsite was right on the water just crush on the beach. Family...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No detailed reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit reviews about pet policies or features were available.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025