Salmon Lake State Park
00 reviewP.O. Box 136; 2329 Highway 83 N., Seeley Lake, Montana, 59868, United States
Salmon Lake State Park
$1.00 - $1.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Showers are coin-operated, costing $1 for 3 minutes.
About this campground
Nestled in Montana's pristine woodland, Salmon Lake State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its crystal-clear waters and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for an afternoon adventure, or simply floating in the refreshing mountain lake, this well-loved destination delivers the quintessential Montana experience. Attentive camp hosts ensure immaculate facilities throughout your stay, from the spotless restrooms and hot showers to the convenient day-use area where boaters gather to share stories of the day's catch. Wildlife watchers will find themselves reaching for binoculars as eagles soar overhead and deer emerge from the forest shadows at dusk.
The campground accommodates various types of camping, including tent camping and RV camping. Electric hookups are available at some sites, and reservations can be made in advance.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Seeley Lake Center and Museum, where the rich tapestry of Montana's logging heritage comes alive through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Discover the stories of hardy Forest Service pioneers who shaped this wilderness, and learn how generations of loggers harvested these towering forests while leaving behind the natural legacy visitors enjoy today. The museum serves as a window into the rugged history that built these mountain communities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Montana's dramatic seasonal transformation at Salmon Lake, where each season paints the landscape in distinctive hues. Winter transforms the park into a snow-dusted wonderland, with crisp, dry air and moderate snowfall creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along the frozen shoreline. As summer arrives, the park awakens under endless blue skies and warm sunshine, inviting swimmers to dive into cool mountain waters and anglers to try their luck during long, golden evenings that seem to stretch forever.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable mountain elevation, the park offers that perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere, where the air feels refreshingly crisp without leaving you breathless.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering western larch trees paint the autumn landscape in brilliant gold, while stately ponderosa pines and Douglas-firs create a year-round emerald canopy overhead. From nearly every vantage point, the majestic Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges frame the horizon, their peaks catching the first light of dawn and holding the last glow of sunset. This natural amphitheater creates an ever-changing backdrop that transforms throughout the day, from misty morning silhouettes to sharp afternoon clarity.
Geological RegionSalmon Lake State Park sits like a jewel in the crown of the Clearwater River Chain-of-Lakes, a spectacular geological wonderland carved between the ancient Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges. This unique positioning places visitors at the heart of one of Montana's most scenic corridors, where glacial forces sculpted a string of pristine lakes connected by the meandering Clearwater River. The surrounding peaks tell a story millions of years in the making, their exposed rock faces revealing the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is handicap friendly according to a user review, but detailed descriptions of specific accessibility features are not available.
Sites SizeSites are described as level, with some reviews noting proximity between sites: 'A lot of the campsites are very close to one another.'
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy: some users appreciated the layout, while others noted that sites were 'very close to one another.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake may offer quieter and more scenic views.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites are not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
The maximum capacity at each campsite is eight (8) people.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity per campsite is eight (8) people.
Groups
No information on group sites is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNo specific information about loop or sectional layouts is provided.
Open and Closed SeasonSpecific information on open and closed seasons is unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsNo specific reservation platforms are mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome reviewers mention successfully obtaining a campsite via walk-up, but specifics are not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable and cannot be sold, bartered, or traded. Cancellation fees may apply under certain conditions.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Salmon Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Some reviews highlight activities like kayaking and paddleboarding as particularly enjoyable. One user mentioned, 'Salmon Lake is a great lake to swim in,' while another praised its 'great fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking opportunities.'
Hiking
The park features trails that are suitable for walking and biking. A review mentions, 'Great walking trail to swimming area,' and another notes 'lots of fun trails and swimming areas.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the lake. One user review describes, 'Great fishing.' Specific fish species or fishing regulations are not mentioned.Swimming
Swimming is available at the lake, and it is highlighted by users as a great activity: 'Salmon Lake is a great lake to swim in.' However, one review notes that 'the beach for swimming is down the road,' requiring either a short drive or a walk of about 0.25 to 0.5 miles.Biking
The paved roads within the campground make it suitable for biking, as one review states, 'Paved roads throughout so it is a good place to bring the kids’ bikes.'Boating
Boating is supported, and the lake is described as ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking, with relatively little boat traffic. A separate boat launch/day-use area is available.Wildlife viewing
The park offers opportunities to view local wildlife, although specific species are not detailed in the available data.Beach activities
There is a beach area for swimming and sunbathing, although it is not directly adjacent to the campsites. Visitors may need to travel a short distance to access it.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park features interpretive signs and events such as live music during the summer. Historical and natural resource displays are available at the nearby Seeley Lake Center and Museum.Winter Activities
Winter activities near the park include sled dog races, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular activities on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated areas. Food storage rules apply due to bear activity.
- Quiet hours are Enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; food storage rules are strictly enforced. Bear-resistant garbage dumpsters and lockers are available.
Active alertsNo current advisories or alerts are noted.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.5 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
In case of an emergency, visitors are advised to dial 911, and park staff can provide additional assistance if necessary.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season dates are specified.
Trash and recyclingBear-resistant garbage dumpsters are located throughout the campground, and food storage rules apply, as the area is bear country.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Salmon Lake, offering easy access to swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsProximity to the highway is mentioned as noisy due to logging trucks. Some reviewers note campsites are too close to one another, compromising privacy.
HostPositive reviews indicate hosts are friendly and helpful, maintaining cleanliness and providing assistance with campsite assignments.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 136; 2329 Highway 83 N., Seeley Lake, Montana, 59868, United States
Driving directionsSalmon Lake State Park is located 5 miles south of Seeley Lake on Montana 83.
The campground is immediately adjacent to Montana 83, offering convenient access. However, some reviewers mention noise from nearby logging truck traffic.Nearby supplies
Closest working dump station is 6 miles away in Seeley Lake. Supplies for food, camping, and additional fuel may also be available in Seeley Lake.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Salmon Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Salmon Lake State Park is consistently praised for its clean facilities, friendly hosts, and range of activities. The proximity to the highway and lack of a dump station were noted as downsides.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly and helpful campground hosts, great swimming and fishing opportunities, paved roads ideal for biking, and beautiful scenery were frequently noted.
Common Concerns
Proximity to a highway causing noise, lack of a dump station, and campsites being too close together were common concerns.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring coins for the showers ($1 for 3 minutes). If tent camping, be prepared for some sites being close to others. The beach is accessible by walking or driving a short distance.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular in summer for water activities but can get noisy on weekends. Some users recommend visiting during quieter weekdays.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camp hosts are very helpful and friendly.' 2. 'This is a beautiful clean campground with a nice beach and trail.' 3. 'Salmon Lake is a great lake to swim in.' 4. 'One of the rare state...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are not available. Some users did mention that 'some campsites are very close together.'
Accessibility Features
Handicap-friendly features were noted by one reviewer, but no detailed descriptions of accessibility options were provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets must be kept on a leash, as per the park rules. No additional reviews specifically addressed pet-related experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025