Serene Lakeside Camping in Whitefish, Montana

General Info: At an elevation of 3012 ft., Whitefish Lake State Park is a small 10-acre park bordering Whitefish Lake in northwestern Montana. The 3315-acre lake is rarely windy, so you’ll find the glassy water perfect for waterskiing. A mature mixed forest of conifer and softwoods covers the shoreline and hills around the park. Trains running along the park’s edge will thrill iron horse enthusiasts of all ages.

Hours and Fees: The park is open daily all year. Day-use entry to the park for non-resident visitors is $5 per vehicle per day. Call the park office at (406) 752-5501 or (406) 862-3991 for current visitor information.

Download the topographical parcel map PDF of Whitefish Lake State Park to get a better idea of where the park is located on the lake.

Activities: Dog Bay has a nice beach for swimming and wading.
The park features a wheelchair accessible boat dock and concrete launch ramp to get out on the water. Anglers will delight in the variety of fish species found in this tributary of the Whitefish River. Check the Whitefish Lake fishing guide for detailed information. Picnic areas with tables and fire pits are great for relaxing over a meal while enjoying the pleasant park scenery.

While you’re in the area, poke around the quaint, historic railroad town of Whitefish. There you’ll enjoy some small-town hospitality, a variety of outdoor activities (golf, mountain biking, horse riding, etc), and fun dining and shopping opportunities. It’s a great place to visit on your way up to Glacier National Park, about 30 miles to the northeast on Highway 2.

Pets: Whitefish Lake welcomes your leashed pets, as long as you pick up after them and don’t leave them unattended.

Camping Info: The park’s campground has 25 dirt RV sites with no room for slideouts. There is a dump station and modern restrooms with showers, but no hookups. Firewood and a public phone are available. The nightly camping fee is $15 for up to a seven-day stay. Maximum combined vehicle length is 35 ft., so those of you with big rigs should try one of the private campgrounds in town (just 2 miles away). The Whitefish RV Park has extra-wide gravel RV campsites, and the Whitefish/Glacier KOA has 65 gravel RV campsites with full hookups.

Weather: Since the park is at altitude in the mountainous western part of Montana, the weather can change quickly. Summer rainstorms are not uncommon. Average high temperatures in the summer months range from the low 70s °F to mid-80s °F. The difference between daily high and low temperatures can be 30 degrees or more, so dress in layers for maximum comfort and flexibility. Remember to take it easy and limit strenuous activity for a day or two until you adjust to the altitude.

If you’re from the Treasure State or have visited Whitefish Lake State Park in the past, please chime in with your stories and tips! Your insights can help others have a fantastic trip.