About Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)
Overview Lakeside Campground is located at the south end of Lake Alva, in Montana's Lolo National Forest. The campground offers a chance to camp and enjoy recreational activities such as swimming, fishing and boating. The lake is home to a loon population and has protected nesting areas. The birds' mesmerizing calls can often be heard in the campground. All boats on Lake Alva must operate at a "no-wake" speed year-round. Recreation Lake Alva is in a great spot for boating and fishing. Anglers will find a variety of freshwater fish, including Kokanee salmon, whitefish, pike, trout and perch, among other species. A boat ramp is available at nearby Lake Alva Campground, one mile north on Highway 83. All motorized boating must operation at a "No-Wake" speed year-round. Many non-motorized boaters find solace during early evening/morning hours on the lake. Swimming is also a popular activity. Facilities 1 group camping site, 3 individual RV/tent sites, and 1 tent site are available for reservation the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, when the campground closes for the season. The accessible group campsite can accommodate up to 25 people and up to four RVs and six vehicles. All campsites are equipped with picnic tables and a campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided, there is no drinking water available at the campground. Trash collection is not available- Please Pack it Out. Campground hosts onsite 24 hours a day. There is no day-use area at Lakeside Campground. Day-use access to Lake Alva is located a mile North on Highway 83, at Lake Alva Campground. The area is equipped with a boat launch, boat trailer parking, and a swimming beach. Lake Alva is a No-Wake lake. Natural Features The campground is situated at the south end of Lake Alva, and offers shade and lake access. At an elevation of approximately 4,200 feet, temperatures are relatively cool on summer days. The lake is home to a loon population, and has protected nesting areas duri
How to Get There
From 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 the entrance is on the west side of the highway.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)
Heading to Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)?
No central reservation system listed for Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233204) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)?
From 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 the entrance is on the west side of the highway.
How do I contact Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-677-2233.
References & Official Resources
