West Shore Campground

Within the broad and varied category of Campgrounds & RV Parks, West Shore Campground distinguishes itself as a highly desirable destination, offering a well-rounded and picturesque outdoor experience. Located within West Shore State Park, a unit of Flathead Lake State Park in Montana, this campground provides campers with direct access to the vast and beautiful Flathead Lake, combined with the tranquility of a mature forest setting. It's a popular choice for both tent and RV campers seeking a blend of comfort and natural beauty, with an emphasis on water-based recreation and stunning scenic views.

West Shore Campground is nestled within 129 acres of a lush forest, primarily composed of fir, pine, and larch trees. This mature forest provides ample shade and a sense of immersion in nature for campers. The campground's elevation of approximately 3,130 feet offers commanding views of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, known for its remarkably clear, deep waters. The park itself is characterized by glacially carved rock outcrops, which contribute to the dramatic landscape and provide spectacular vistas of the expansive lake, with the majestic Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges forming a breathtaking backdrop to the east.

The shoreline is rocky, a consequence of its glacial history, and popular for various activities. The air is fresh and clean, permeated by the scent of pine and lake water. The presence of the lake naturally attracts a variety of wildlife, including diverse bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Deer are also commonly sighted within the park. The overall atmosphere is tranquil and serene, allowing visitors to disconnect and enjoy the natural sounds of the forest and the lake. The climate here is typical of Western Montana, with warm summers perfect for water activities and vibrant shoulder seasons.

West Shore Campground offers a semi-developed camping experience, providing a good balance of natural immersion and essential amenities. The campground features 31 campsites, designed to accommodate a range of camping styles. Seven of these sites are designated as tent-only, ensuring a quieter experience for those without RVs. For RV and trailer campers, sites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length, with 12 sites featuring electrical hookups, a highly valued convenience. While full hookups (water and sewer) are not available at West Shore itself, the presence of electrical service makes it suitable for many RVs.

The campground is equipped with vault toilets, which are maintained, and potable water is available, typically from May through September. Each campsite generally comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor meals and traditional campfires (though visitors should always check for current fire restrictions, which are common in Montana during dry periods). Bear-resistant storage lockers are provided, essential for securely storing food and scented items due to the presence of wildlife. Trash removal services are available through designated trash cans and dumpsters. There is also a camp host on-site, providing assistance and ensuring adherence to park regulations. Firewood is often available for sale at the park, adding to convenience. Pets are allowed within the campground but must be kept on a leash. The campground is open year-round, though potable water may be shut off in the winter months. Camping fees generally range from $15 for non-electric sites to $25 for sites with electricity, and a day-use entrance fee of $8 per vehicle (or $4 for walk-ins/bicyclists) applies, though a Nonresident Entrance Pass provides free entry. Reservations for most sites are highly recommended and can be made up to six months in advance via Reserve America.

West Shore Campground's prime location on Flathead Lake provides a wealth of recreational opportunities. A key feature is the public boat launch and boat dock, offering easy access to the lake for motorboating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The deep water off the shore of the park allows for a boat launch that is typically ice-free throughout the winter months, extending boating opportunities.

Fishing is a major draw, with Flathead Lake renowned for its population of fish species, including Mackinaw (Lake Trout), Lake Whitefish, and perch. Swimming is popular along the rocky shoreline and a designated swim area is located adjacent to the campground. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park offers approximately 2.5 to 4 miles of easy to moderate hiking trails. These single-track dirt trails wind through the forest and along the rocky shoreline, providing excellent scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Some trails lead to overlooks, offering even more expansive vistas. The presence of glacially carved rock outcrops also adds to the park's unique topography, providing interesting formations to explore.

Wildlife viewing, particularly birdwatching, is a rewarding activity, with a diverse range of avian species frequenting the lake and forest. The park's relatively small size compared to surrounding national forests and parks makes it an accessible and manageable destination for day visitors and campers alike, offering a concentrated experience of Montana's natural beauty. The park also provides interpretive displays to enhance visitors' understanding of the local environment and geology.

Due to its popularity and prime location on Flathead Lake, planning your visit to West Shore Campground in advance is highly recommended. Most campsites are reservable up to six months ahead of time via the Montana State Parks website or Reserve America, especially for summer dates. While the park is open year-round, the prime camping season for full services typically runs from April to October. It is always wise to check current park alerts, such as fire restrictions, water availability, and any temporary closures, by contacting Flathead Lake State Park directly (406-837-3041 or 406-755-2706 for information) or visiting the Montana FWP website.

Campers should be prepared for typical Montana weather, including potentially cool evenings even in summer, and bring appropriate layers. Bear-resistant food storage is mandatory, with lockers provided for tent campers. For those with boats, inspections for aquatic invasive species are required in Montana, so check with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Inspection Station or FWP inspection stations beforehand. West Shore Campground's location, just 5.5 miles south of Lakeside on US-93, makes it conveniently accessible while still offering a sense of seclusion. Its proximity to other popular destinations like Kalispell (20 miles), Polson (23 miles), Whitefish (30 miles), and approximately an hour's drive from Glacier National Park, makes it an excellent base camp for exploring the wider Glacier Country region. West Shore Campground provides a beautiful, comfortable, and activity-rich setting for a memorable Montana outdoor experience on the shores of magnificent Flathead Lake.