Van Lake Campground And Day Use

Star0
5 reviews
/ Turn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

3,701 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

16

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Swan Lake Ranger Service, site

Official Website
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Van Lake Campground And Day Use
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground is free of charge.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

12 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquiet

"Reviews consistently praise the campground for its peace, quiet, and scenic surroundings. Many visitors appreciated the lack of crowds and the tranquil ambiance."

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Campground Map

/ Turn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882

Van Lake Campground And Day Use

/ Turn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882

Driving directionsTurn east off of HWY 83 MM 54.6 onto Van Lake rd #9882. Follow road to the end.
Accessible via Van Lake Rd #9882 from HWY 83 at mile marker 54.6. It is not accessible during heavy snow.
Nearby places
Bigfork, MT is the nearest city.
Nearby supplies
Swan Lake Ranger Station offers limited visitor information during weekdays. For grocery and camping supplies, users would need to inquire further.

Best Time to Camp at Van Lake Campground And Day Use

Experience the dramatic beauty of Montana's changing seasons, from wildflower-dotted summers perfect for hiking and wildlife watching to crisp autumn days painted in gold and amber. Spring brings rushing snowmelt and vibrant new growth, while winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Most popular in warmer months; ideal for boating, fishing, hiking and sunsets.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Autumn colors and quieter conditions noted; still attractive but cooler and shorter season.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring offers wildflowers and runoff but access/conditions may be variable early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Snow may render the campground inaccessible; no winter use information provided.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: 16

About Van Lake Campground And Day Use

Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of Flathead National Forest, this secluded campground offers visitors a pristine escape into Montana's untamed wilderness. Spanning nearly 64 acres of protected forest land, the site provides an intimate connection with nature where towering pines whisper ancient stories and crystal-clear mountain air rejuvenates the soul.
Van Lake Campground primarily supports dispersed camping, with six minimally developed campsites.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
16 day

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Van Lake Campground offers activities such as fishing, non-motorized boating, and opportunities for hunting. The tranquil setting of the lake allows visitors to engage in water-related recreation and enjoy the natural surroundings.
FishingFishing is available at Van Lake. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.
BoatingOnly non-motorized boating is allowed. Visitors can make use of the gravel boat ramp to access Van Lake.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Van Lake Campground And Day Use

Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Van Lake Campground And Day Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews consistently praise the campground for its peace, quiet, and scenic surroundings. Many visitors appreciated the lack of crowds and the tranquil ambiance.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlighted the tranquility, scenic views, and the absence of crowds. One reviewer noted, 'Enjoyed an amazing sunset and sunrise, we had the place to ourselves.' Another stated, 'The joy was...
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Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

No significant complaints were noted in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a spot and bring all necessary supplies, as there are no fees and amenities are limited. Carry drinking water since potable water is not available.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is most popular in the warmer months, with visitors noting the beauty of sunsets and the serene environment. Snow may render the campground inaccessible in winter.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Enjoyed an amazing sunset and sunrise, we had the place to ourselves.' - Lindsey Daniels. 2. 'Beautiful camp ground. So peaceful and quiet.' - John Wayne Priest. 3. 'The joy was that it was...
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Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site reviews beyond the general praise for the six campsites were provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features and experiences were not mentioned in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related policies and experiences were not mentioned in the reviews provided.
Based on 5 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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