Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)
8
Total Campsites
Campground
5
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
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 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. 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 during May and June. The birds' mesmerizing calls can often be heard in the campground. Nearby Attractions Seeley Lake is about 10 miles south of the campground, with boating, water skiing and fishing opportunities. The town of Seeley Lake lies on the southeastern tip of the lake. A variety of services are offered there, including boat, canoe, kayak and row boat rentals. The Mission Mountain Wilderness Area is about 15 miles northwest of the campground. The area is popular for its scenic views and abundant wildlife. Active glaciers, alpine lakes, meadows and clear, icy streams, along with vertical cliffs and jagged peaks, make up the area.
- 8 total campsites listed.
- 5 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: management (3).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT) special
Lakeside Lolo Campground sits at the quiet southern end of Lake Alva in Montana's Lolo National Forest, where the Seeley-Swan Valley opens into one of the most scenic lake chains in the Northern Rockies. The campground is bordered by dense stands of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir, with the Mission Mountains and Swan Range forming a dramatic backdrop to the east. Lake Alva is a peaceful, mid-sized lake ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for stocked rainbow trout. Motorized boats are welcome but the lake's calm character favors paddlers. The Seeley Lake area is rich with outdoor recreation, including the Clearwater Canoe Trail, numerous hiking paths, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Wildlife sightings are common, with white-tailed deer, osprey, and the occasional moose wandering through. The campground offers a modest number of forested sites with vault toilets and lake access. There are no hookups, so come prepared for a rustic stay. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and weekday visits almost guarantee your pick of spots. Peak season runs from late June through August, when warm days and cool mountain nights create perfect camping conditions. September brings quieter crowds and early hints of fall color along the larch-lined ridges. For a low-key Montana lake experience away from the tourist hubs, Lakeside Lolo is a fine choice.
Campsite Inventory
8 sites to choose from
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
3
Reservable
0
Accessible
GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Check-in time
3:00 PM
Check-out time
1:00 PM
Condition Rating
Standard
Double Driveway
Yes
Driveway entry
Back-in
Driveway Grade
Slight
Driveway length (ft)
15, 36, 37, 48
Driveway surface
Gravel
GRILLS
Yes
LAKE ACCESS
Lake Access
Location Rating
Prime
Max guests
10, 25
Max vehicle length (ft)
15, 36, 37, 48
Minimum guests
Yes
PARKING AREA
Parking Area
PICNIC TABLES
Picnic Tables
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
406-677-2233
Getting 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.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT).
How do reservations work for Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)?
Reservation availability for Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT) can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)?
Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT) currently lists MANAGEMENT (3), STANDARD NONELECTRIC (3), GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC (1), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (1).
Where is Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT) located?
Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT) is in Montana near SEELEY LAKE. Coordinates: 47.3194, -113.5773.
Keep Exploring