Lake Alva Campground

Star4.38
33 reviews
Lake Alva Campground, North Shore of Lake Alva, Montana
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

4,100 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

59 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Lolo National Forest site

Official Website
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Lake Alva Campground
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season fees are $20 per night for single sites (including up to two vehicles) and $50 per night for group sites (#42, #43). Additional vehicles...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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USFS
Provider
1-406-677-2880
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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 33 reviews

32 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacycleanlakefriendly

Some mention

noise

"User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s peaceful environment, clean facilities, and well-spaced campsites. The ‘no-wake’ lake is frequently praised for its tranquility, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife observation."

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Campground Map

Lake Alva Campground, North Shore of Lake Alva, Montana

Lake Alva Campground

Lake Alva Campground, North Shore of Lake Alva, Montana

Driving directionsFrom Seeley Lake, MT, take State Rt. 83 north 11.2 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.4 miles to campground.
The campground is accessible via Montana Highway 83 with paved roads leading directly to the site. Road access is generally straightforward but may be impacted by snow during winter months.
Nearby places
Seeley Lake: 11 miles, approximately 20 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and equipment rentals can be found in the town of Seeley Lake, 11 miles from the campground. Outfitters and rental information is available from the Seeley Lake Chamber of Commerce (phone: 1-406-677-2880).

Best Time to Camp at Lake Alva Campground

Perched at 4,200 feet, Lake Alva offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat, with crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures that make for perfect camping conditions. From late spring through early fall, the campground comes alive as wildflowers bloom and wildlife emerges. As autumn arrives, golden larches paint the landscape before winter's snow blankets the region, transforming it into a peaceful wonderland that often limits access but rewards the hardy souls who venture here during the shoulder seasons.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season summer: calm lake, highest activity and many positive summer reviews.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Late-season opens; mountain and larch foliage likely enhance fall scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open late spring depending on snow; cooler temps and fewer services early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Seasonal operation May–Oct; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Friday before Memorial Day through Tuesday after Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally from May through October, depending on snow conditions.
  • Current Alerts: Half of the campground may be closed for renovations based on user reviews.

About Lake Alva Campground

Nestled along the pristine north shore of Lake Alva, this enchanting campground invites you to experience Montana's wilderness at its finest. Here, beneath a canopy of towering trees both ancient and young, you'll discover the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the lake's glassy surface, or simply watching eagles soar overhead, Lake Alva promises unforgettable moments. With two distinct camping loops—one that welcomes reservations and another for spontaneous adventurers seeking first-come, first-served sites—there's a spot waiting for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Lake Alva Campground provides RV and tent campsites, with group sites also available for larger gatherings. Primitive camping, cabins, and glamping are not offered.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The lake’s ‘no-wake’ rule ensures a peaceful environment, making it ideal for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
FishingThe lake supports fishing with species like cutthroat trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, northern pike, and kokanee salmon.
SwimmingSwimming is available at a designated area noted to be gravel and grass. User reviews mention the lack of a true beach and limited size of the grassy area.
BoatingBoating is allowed with both motorized and non-motorized options. The lake has a 'no-wake' speed restriction, and there is a concrete boat ramp for easy access.
Wildlife viewingThe campground is a prime location for wildlife viewing, with species like white-tailed deer, elk, mountain goats, and various bird species, including loons and eagles. User reviews highlight the tranquil environment and bird-watching opportunities.
Beach activitiesActivities are limited due to the lack of a true sandy beach; the area is gravel and grass. However, the quiet environment allows for small-scale beach-related activities.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include interactions with wildlife such as black and grizzly bears. Visitors are advised to follow bear safety protocols.
Active AlertsHalf of the campground may be closed for renovations based on user reviews.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Lake Alva Campground

Reviews

4.4
33 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Lake Alva Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground’s peaceful environment, clean facilities, and well-spaced campsites. The ‘no-wake’ lake is frequently praised for its tranquility, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife observation.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, the tranquil ‘no-wake’ lake, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and availability of campfire wood. Privacy between campsites due to the...
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Based on 33 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention the lack of a true beach, limited swimming area size, and issues with mosquitoes. One reviewer noted difficulty finding disabled parking and expressed a desire for bear lockers.
Based on 33 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Future visitors are advised to bring bug spray due to mosquitoes, prepare for limited swimming space, and consider bringing cash or checks for payments as on-site facilities may not accept cards.
Based on 33 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees the highest user activity, with reviews focusing on the lake’s calmness and camping experience. Off-peak seasons may offer fewer crowds but limited services.
Based on 33 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Lake Alva's best feature is that it's a no-wake lake, which means it will be more peaceful than other lakes nearby.' 2. 'The birds here are amazing. We rolled in on motorcycles so I wished there...
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Based on 33 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites in Loop 1 are reservable during peak season, while Loop 2 remains first-come/first-serve. Group sites #42 and #43 are available for larger gatherings. No specific 'best' or 'worst' sites were...
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Based on 33 reviews

Accessibility Features

One review notes the lack of designated disabled parking and a partially accessible path to the swimming area. Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Based on 33 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 33 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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