Lakeside Lolo Campground (MT)
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.
- 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.
Need to Know
Notice: Beginning in 2024, check out time is at 1:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Check-in is at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Please check-out on time so that attendents may prepare the campsite for the next guest.
Bears frequent the area; please store all food and attractants in a locked vehicle, or in a certified bear resistant container. Click here for more information.
- Lake Alva has a "No-Wake" regulation at all times.
Drinking water is not available; please bring your own supply.
No trash collection services avaliable. Please Pack it Out.
Campfires must be completely extinguished before leaving campsite unattended.
Parking is allowed in designated areas only. No parking along roadways.
Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. This includes external and onboard gas-powered generators.
Dogs must be leashed while in campgrounds.
Reservations cannot exceed 7 nights.
Access to the campground in the early spring and late fall is closed, roads are not plowed, gate is closed.
Click here for more information on the Lolo National Forest.
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
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.
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.
Contact Information
Mailing
Seeley Lake Ranger District 3583 MT-HWY 83 N. SEELEY LAKE MT 59868
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 406-677-2233
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
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.
Available Campsites
- Site LSG3, Loop LAKESIDE GROUP CAMPSITE, Type Group Standard Area Nonelectric
- Site LSS4, Loop LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site LSS2, Loop LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site LSS5, Loop LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
- Site LSS6, Loop LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND, Type Standard Nonelectric
