The best camping near Columbia Falls with wildlife watching

23 sites · Whitefish, Montana

(4)

Discover Whitefish Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

300 sites · Swan Lake, Montana

5. Flathead National Forest

79%

(26)

The Flathead National Forest is all about its geography. It lies in the heart of the Rockies, just west of the continental divide, and a pinch south of the Canadian Border. With geography like this, landscape magic is bound to occur, and it does. With over 2.4 million acres, the Flathead features three wilderness areas, impressive ski areas, commanding wild ranges, meandering streams, and raging rivers (this list could go on). Spend your days hiking, rafting, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, and fishing. At night shack up in a Forest Service cabin or pitch a tent beneath the northern lights. Get the fire roaring, raise your bottle, and make a toast to the Flathead and her geographic magic!

28mi from Columbia Falls · 3 sites · Lodging

6. Glamping tents near Polebridge

7. Wildiron Bigfork

19mi from Columbia Falls · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(171)

We live on 10 acres of mixed forest and field. In the summer we have an active blacksmithing school and flower farm here. The idea of a sustainable, self reliant lifestyle has always been part of our life and passing it down to others is a joy for us. We sustainably manage our food and forest to be the best stewards we can for our environment and our neighbors. Our Cabin and structures were built primarily of materials that were recycled or milled on site. which makes them warm and inviting. The Cabin is located close to our shop which houses an active blacksmithing school in the summer months where the rest of the structures are separate and in an area tucked away on the edge of the woods.Jeffrey and Betsy work to make your stay as welcoming as possible. We maintain a small orchard of fruit trees, a garden which feeds us year round and a small flower farm on the property. Avid skiers, bikers, paddlers and hikers, offering the property for others to enjoy was a conscious decision made when planning all of our infrastructure. Come and enjoy all the beautiful Flathead Valley has to offer.

8. Triple G's Resort

88%

(16)

22mi from Columbia Falls · 24 sites · Lodging

Eco Luxury Resort offering Geodomes, cabins, treehouses and RV;s located only 15 minutes from West Glacier entrance. This resort will give you and your family an experience of a lifetime! We have a bar and restaurant on site with various boards and lawn games for guests to enjoy. 2 outdoor firepits 4 communal outdoor BBQs Various seating and hammocks spread through out the trails and forest even a STAGE where we host various artists and performances through out the year. Visit Triple G's Resort website to see restaurant menu and hours as well as the activities page where you can book horse back riding, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting and ATV rentals!

9. Robinson’s Roost

99%

(534)

6.1mi from Columbia Falls · 4 sites · Tents

Welcome to Robinson's Roost! My husband and I bought 3 acres of land and built our retirement home 16 years ago. We have chickens, fruit trees and a giant garden, and have 4 campsites in the wooded area of our property. We are excited to offer bathrooms and hot showers! Each campsite also has its own picnic table and there is a communal fire pit. We have a beautiful piece of property with the Columbia mountain range in our back yard. Great views, wildlife, garden, chickens. Situated on a dead end dirt road that is very peaceful and quiet. Hiking and water sports are also close by and we are only 6 miles from town. We are 20 miles to Glacier National Park, where the beauty and activities are endless. I have plenty of shopping, dining, hiking and activity ideas while visiting. We look forward to your visit!

10. Live Deliberately

97%

(331)

811 sites · Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Camp on my mountain in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Bring who you want, and do what you want on 11 wooded, private and secluded acres. Mountain Bikes, and Pets are OK. No curfews, and no judgement.

11. Flathead Lake State Park - Wayfarers Unit

30 sites · Bigfork, Montana

(2)

Discover the scenic beauty of Wayfarers at Flathead Lake State Park.

12. Flathead Lake State Park - West Shore Unit

31 sites · Rollins, Montana

(2)

Discover the serene beauty of Flathead Lake State Park - West Shore.

Electrical hookup

31 sites · Lake Mary Ronan, Montana

13. Lake Mary Ronan State Park

Discover serene Lake Mary Ronan, a haven for anglers and campers alike.

Electrical hookup

14. Bucketlist #1

40mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · RVs

(97)

Drive-in, park, and begin enjoying all the crazy, fun, or just relaxing things you want out of your private lakefront property. You're on the shores of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake, this side of the Mississippi, and home of Wildhorse Island, where the Boone and Crocket world record Bighorn Sheep was discovered, killed by winter weather. This 2160 acre island is also the home of deer, mountain lions, bears, several species of eagles, and wild horses. Day hiking is allowed and is a 5-minute boat ride from your beach spot. Just slightly over an hour to Glacier National Park and access to all the mountain lakes, rivers and streams to explore, you won't be bored. Right around the corner, you have access to a boat ramp at one of the state-owned Parks with public showers, if the lake water is too cold. If you want to make her an honest women, while you're here, you're staying on our wedding and event venue (www.flatheadlakeforevers) and we will help make that happen too. Tell us what you want and we'll help you make it happen. Pictures posted on this site are all from this 34 acre, 900 ft. of lake frontage venue. Don't miss this one. Sorry no more instant booking, we don't ever want another Tod on our property.

15. Horses Welcome | Hot Shower Big Sky

99%

(39)

14mi from Columbia Falls · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Are you ready for an unforgettable camping experience surrounded by nature's wonders? Look no further than Camp Whispering Pines in Kalispell, MT. Whether you're a car camper, tent camper, or traveling with your RV or horses, we have everything you need for a comfortable and adventurous stay. At Camp Whispering Pines, we pride ourselves on our central location, putting you within easy reach of Rebecca Farms, Flathead Lake, Foy's Lake, and the majestic Glacier National Park. Our dry campsites come equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, porta-jon toilets, and access to potable water. But what sets us apart is our horse facilities, including corrals and an arena, providing a secure place for horses and riders to camp. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Flathead Valley, explore local attractions and activities, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay now and secure your spot at Camp Whispering Pines. Simply click on the button below to reserve your campsite today! Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the magic of camping in Kalispell. We can't wait to welcome you to Camp Whispering Pines!

16. Rising Wolf Johnson Ranch RV Cabins

71%

(60)

47mi from Columbia Falls · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

The ranch is situated between the east and west entrances to Glacier National Park. The camp site is in an ideal location to explore both sides of the park. This option is ideal for those who are interested in trekking out on their own and exploring the local attractions, most notably Glacier National Park, Blackfeet Reservation. Campers can stay on either side of Hwy 2. We have an open field where you my chose to camp. Sites are spacious at least 50 × 50 !! Wide open grass field with a gorgeous view of the mountains non-potable water is available along with toilet facility less than 2 miles to small town with restaurants, shops, gas, etc. also has laundry and shower facilities great for budget minded families any size trailer or tent 8090° days and 50° nights never thought of turning on my generator fantastic owner 30 miles to East entrance great location We offer 3 cabins, , 2 RV hookup, you may dry camp in your RV and many Tent sites. Go to Mile Marker 212 east tan about 1/4 of a mile more, just ahead you will see three cabins on the right and on the left, you will see a set of green corrals. Rising Wolf/Johnson RV Campground and Ca 48927'27.5"N 11310'59.1"W 48.457651, -113.183091. i 1min

17. Aspen Hollow

8.2mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · RVs

(111)

Tucked into a quiet hollow just 7 miles from Glacier National Park, this rolling, wooded property was once a thriving herb farm. Oregano and other herbs still grow wild among the aspens and lodgepole pines. Today, it’s a peaceful basecamp for exploring Glacier, Flathead Lake, Whitefish Mountain, and the many natural wonders nearby. Brad and Sarah, your hosts, frequent the property while Brad builds custom cabins on the land—including one on the original homestead foundation. Until then, guests can enjoy the property’s secluded, park-like feel and easy access to adventure. Why you’ll love it here: -Secluded yet convenient: rare privacy this close to the park -3 acres of partially wooded land for relaxing, walking dogs, or playing games -Mature trees, peekaboo mountain views, and level sites with room to spread out Site details: -Level gravel pads with electric hookups (50/30/20 amp) and water -No septic service, but public dump stations nearby -Reliable cell signal for most carriers + Wi-Fi on-site -Gravel access road with a short uphill turn at the entrance (all RVs manage fine, but good to know ahead of time) Despite the quiet setting, you’re just 11 miles from Columbia Falls for groceries, dining, and local bars. Glacier Distilling, zip lines, and family attractions are also close by. Also please note: this isn’t the place for large groups or loud parties—most guests come for Montana’s peace and starry nights. We’re often on-site working on future cabins, and we’d love to say hello if you see us around! Special offer: We provide a 15% discount for Police, Firefighters, and Active Duty Military. Message us for details and a code.

18. Desert Mountain Oasis

95%

(56)

8.9mi from Columbia Falls · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Forested camping with mountain views and only seven miles from Glacier National Park. We currently have three sites in total on our property. One site intended for RVs (with water and 30 amp hook ups) and the other two sites are intended for tent camping or place to park a more modest size camper van (no hook ups). All three sites are spaced apart from each other with trees buffering between. We will require campers to have their own toilet after September 2nd, 2025. We will have a porta potty onsite for campers to use and share until September 2nd, 2025. We have immediate access to National Forest land so you can recreate from your campsite if you desire. There is a community fire pit with chairs and picnic table and BBQ when requested. Campfire only in the metal fire ring, not at your own personal site. There is WiFi access while around the sites (usually works). Great star gazing as well! My wife Jesse and I live on the property with our dogs Kintla and Talvi. We live here full time and spend all of our days off recreating in the surrounding mountains and Glacier National Park. Happy to help answer any questions or offer insights as you might need! Hope you enjoy our oasis.

19. Highland Hideout

8.4mi from Columbia Falls · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(6)

Come visit our amazing animal farm! We are located in the center of Flathead Valley on a small 10-acre farm with our Highland and Dexter cows, Kune Kune pigs, Nigerian goats, free-range chickens, ducks, and turkeys. We have an almost 360-degree view of the Valley. We offer 100-amp full hookups on the property. The property is surrounded by other farms, giving you the feeling of being out in the country but with all the amenities near by. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets daily! We are just 10 minutes away from Hutton Ranch shopping, 20 minutes from Whitefish, and 45 minutes from West Glacier. Additionally, we have a trailer available for rent, set up on one of the four sites, in case you don't feel like hauling yours.

20. Glaciers Mountain Camp

90%

(69)

8.2mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · Tents

Glaciers Mountain Camp in the Trees is a new addition to Glaciers Mountain Resort property.  The Paul Family has been hosting Glacier Park tourists since 2009 and HipCamping a natural addition to our lodging choices.  We realize visitors have a variety of budgets and experience expectations.  From full homes to tent camp sites, the Paul Family has something to fit what you're looking for.

Camper favorites near Columbia Falls

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Highland Hideout

8.4mi from Columbia Falls · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(6)

Come visit our amazing animal farm! We are located in the center of Flathead Valley on a small 10-acre farm with our Highland and Dexter cows, Kune Kune pigs, Nigerian goats, free-range chickens, ducks, and turkeys. We have an almost 360-degree view of the Valley. We offer 100-amp full hookups on the property. The property is surrounded by other farms, giving you the feeling of being out in the country but with all the amenities near by. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets daily! We are just 10 minutes away from Hutton Ranch shopping, 20 minutes from Whitefish, and 45 minutes from West Glacier. Additionally, we have a trailer available for rent, set up on one of the four sites, in case you don't feel like hauling yours.

Glaciers Mountain Camp

90%

(69)

8.2mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · Tents

Glaciers Mountain Camp in the Trees is a new addition to Glaciers Mountain Resort property.  The Paul Family has been hosting Glacier Park tourists since 2009 and HipCamping a natural addition to our lodging choices.  We realize visitors have a variety of budgets and experience expectations.  From full homes to tent camp sites, the Paul Family has something to fit what you're looking for.

Camp Caribou

7.8mi from Columbia Falls · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

(59)

Quiet bedroom community only 6 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. Flat lot with easy access from the main highway. Trees surround all RV sites. 1 sites with 30 amp hook up, 2 sites with 50 amp hook ups and 1 site with 20amp/110v hook up .All have water hook up and there is a gray/ black water dump station on site.

⭐️Glacier RV Oasis/Mountain Views

2.9mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

(65)

Stay a little longer and save a lot! Book 29 days or more this winter and unlock long-term discounts! Perfect for people wanting to enjoy Whitefish Mountain or Glacier! Message me for more details! Wake up to breathtaking mountain views at this beautiful Montana RV site—perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking adventure and relaxation. Just 20 minutes from the West Glacier entrance, you’ll also be close to Columbia Falls, Whitefish, Kalispell, and endless outdoor activities. Sip coffee while soaking up unbelievable sunrises and sunsets, then head into town for local dining, cocktails, and unique shopping. From your site, enjoy stunning views of the Whitefish Range, Columbia Mountain, and Teakettle Mountain. Each RV pad offers 50-amp( RV# 1), & 30amp(RV#2), potable water, sewer hookups, and WIFI. Guests also have access to shared amenities including a half bath, laundry room, BBQ grill, and a private firepit with picnic tables. A private fire ring is provided at your campsite when fire conditions allow. This property is set on five acres with two RV sites and three homes, so you may see other guests during your stay. Pets will be considered-please message me if you would like to request to bring your pet. Nearby Highlights: Glacier National Park (West Entrance) – 17 miles / ~20 minutes Big Sky Waterpark – 2.2 miles / water slides & family fun Teakettle River Access – 3.1 miles / fishing, kayaking & relaxing by the river Montana Vortex & House of Mystery – 3.9 miles / quirky roadside attraction Columbia Mountain Trailhead – 4.5 miles / hiking & views Meadow Lake Golf Course – 6.3 miles / championship 18-hole course Mini Mountain Golf – 7.9 miles / family-friendly mini golf course Under the Big Sky Festival – 11 miles / music, food & western Montana vibes Glacier View Golf Course – 18 miles / scenic golf near West Glacier Whitefish Mountain Resort – 20 miles / skiing, hiking, mountain biking, zipline & aerial park Flathead Lake – 23 miles / largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi Blacktail Mountain Ski Area – 43 miles / family-friendly ski resort with lake views ...and so much more! If your dates are booked, we also offer two vacation homes on the property—just ask for details!

Camp Ka Papa Old US Hwy 93

37mi from Columbia Falls · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

(96)

We are a family-oriented eco-friendly campsite located on the beautiful Flathead Lake of Elmo, Montana. With direct access to the lake and an hour's drive to Glacier National Park. Whether you are a family or only one person, we are here to make your stay at our campground an enjoyable one. Our campground is one of the last places along the shores of Flathead Lake that is pristine and undeveloped.

Heritage Cabin Property

45mi from Columbia Falls · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

(20)

If you are looking for quietude, this is your spot! Twenty acres situated minutes from lakes, rivers and US Forest Service land. Partly forested and partly pasture land, we boast Aspen, Fir, Spruce and Pine trees. Wildlife that commonly pass through include coyote, elk, deer and badger. Lots of bird life from woodpeckers and blue jays to eagles and owls. Fuel, groceries and river access available a short fifteen minute drive away. Lake access is only twenty minutes to the closest, Murphy Lake. Half a dozen other lakes within a thirty minute range. We have a campfire ring set up at your RV/Camp site and camp wood is available. You have fresh, potable water on site as well as electric hook-up. No RV dump available. We are pet friendly! Since we do have neighbors and wildlife, we require pets to be leashed when not secured in our fenced area. We are located outside of the range of cell service when on-site however we do have wifi available at the host cabin.

Cabins on Montana's Ocean

26mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · Lodging

(22)

These are great sleeping cabins nestled in the trees, with easy access. They are just steps away from a large pebble beach on beautiful Flathead Lake. Flathead Lake is surrounded by Swan Range in the north, the Salish Mountains in the west and the Mission Mountains in the east. Relax on the beach chairs or bring your kayak and enjoy a great day on the Lake. Sit around the camp fire in the evening, and watch the sunset. The Lake delivers firewood daily. There are numerous other adventures waiting for you in the area. Drinking water is available, barbecue & grill on the beach, with power in the cabins, port-a-potty . Fun restaurants, bars & music are within walking distance. Flathead National Forest is just east of us. Enjoy hiking and amazing site seeing. For mountain biking you have Jewel Basin Road, Intermediate, 16.0 ; Legacy Bike Park, 5 ; Old Bigfork Canyon Road, Easiest, 4.0 ; Peters Ridge Trail #37. Bring your kayak, canoe, & paddle boat, or rent one near by. Glacier Park West entrance is only 48 miles away, where you can find climbing and hiking as well. We also have snow sports cover with Ski area Big Mtn &Whitefish Mtn 45miles, Nordic trails Junction Foothills and, Jewel Basin Rd, Bigfork, MT 59911. No pets allowed.

Bullwinkles RV Sites

2.9mi from Columbia Falls · 2 sites · RVs

(76)

It is a private yard , 2 RV sites with full hook-ups. Learn more about this land: We are centrally located between Whitefish Big Mountain and Glacier National Park. Trails to hike, lakes for boating or fishing, water slide, rafting trips. We are at the base of the Columbia Mountain Range with a great hiking/biking .

Public campgrounds near Columbia Falls

9mi from Columbia Falls · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Whitefish Lake State Park

(4)

Whitefish Lake Campground

Lost Johnny Point Campground

11mi from Columbia Falls · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

View out the back of our camper van in our campsite.

Emery Bay Campground

11mi from Columbia Falls · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

Wurtz Cabin

14mi from Columbia Falls · 1 site · in Flathead National Forest

14mi from Columbia Falls · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Flathead National Forest

(1)

Lid Creek Campground

93%

(36)

Apgar Group Campground

14mi from Columbia Falls · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Glacier National Park

95%

(47)

Fish Creek Campground

15mi from Columbia Falls · 173 sites · Tents, RVs · in Glacier National Park

16mi from Columbia Falls · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

(3)

Big Creek Campground

Tally Lake Campground

18mi from Columbia Falls · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

Murray Bay Campground

19mi from Columbia Falls · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

Moose Lake Campground

20mi from Columbia Falls · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

Ashley Lake North Campground

20mi from Columbia Falls · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Flathead National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Mooseshroom

Terri was extremely hospitable! The commons make for great glamping experience. The yurt was so cozy with the space heater and heated blanket. We loved our stay!

J

Johna

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bullwinkles RV Sites

Loved it. Quiet convenient Dan is very nice nice level spot clean he's even got a spot in the back if you have dogs we can run around in a fenced area!!!!

J

JackieG

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Very convenient location especially when visiting Glacier NP. It was easy to find and there were helpful signs to locate your site. Bathroom was very clean!! I was impressed considering it was a campground. Felt safe and it was quiet during my stay. Highly recommend!

M

Mark

October 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Bullwinkles RV Sites

Dan is a fantastic host! The RV site was clean and had electric/water hookups as advertised. There's even an enclosed area of his yard so our dog could run around.

S

Sean

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Heritage Cabin Property

Pam's place was amazing awesome setup! She's really thought of everything that a camper needs out in the woods as an enjoyable time for sure!

Site 13 has a pull through access and a sandy tenting spot further into the woods

K

Kimberly

October 2025

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

Clean facilities and camps. Easy to find your way around with their map.

Brad

October 2025

Tent

The site was fabulous... I'll be back! Thank you Jake and Jamie!

K

Karrie

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

Jake and Jaime were so good about communicating with us before our arrival. Their property is well marked and there are very good signs pointing to the specific camping sites. The whole area was clean and well kept. The outhouses were amazing!

Adrian

October 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

We thought we'd take the camper out one last time before winterizeing it and so glad we did. This spot was amazing! The sites are far apart from each other so gives you privacy between neighbors. The campground was so clean, restrooms were kept up and so many fun things for the kids to do. It was safe and the views were so beautiful

N

Nick

October 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

With pets

2 nights at ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

Excellent camp site in a great private location! Plenty of space for a 34’ fifth wheel and truck, level ground, and ample space for slide outs. Great distance between sites as well as activities for the kids. Would definitely recommend.

L

Lauren

October 2025

The Tube Tent was so cute and cozy! I loved my stay and wished I could have stayed longer. The hosts responded quickly and helped me out!

N

Nanette

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Aspen Hollow

Great spot! Perfect place to stay when visiting Glacier National Park. Very close to the entrance- we had a wonderful stay with our dogs. Plenty of space for our big dog to run free. The site was clean, spacious and great with a fire pit and table. Everything we needed. We would stay again without hesitation!

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Mooseshroom

Their kitchen, restroom, and shower room are awesome. Terri's warm hoisting can not be compatible.

Site 15 is the quintessential Montana camping experience - tucked into the pines it feels like you're miles into the wood.

G

Gabe

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

Very private and quiet spot loved the grounds! Very close to glacier national part too. Host was helpful and friendly!

Bring your hammocks for site 14! Lots of great trees for lounging and shade. You can catch glimmers of the large pond in the morning and evening through the trees.

A

Alyssa

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

We needed an easy spot to pull into and camp for the night outside of Glacier and this spot was great! We didn’t hang around much to use any of the amenities, but it served us well. Thanks

L

Lexi

September 2025

16 ft car

We loved pulling into this campsite! It was beautiful to pull into and wake up to. We got to see plenty of deer and enjoy a nice fire under the stars! A close 9 minute drive into the West Glacier National Park entrance was very convenient. Would definitely go back!

Krystl

September 2025

With pets

1 night at The Mooseshroom

I am very grateful to my past self for unintentionally arranging my travel plans such that I was able to spend a leisurely afternoon & evening plus a nice slow morning enjoying all that The Mooseshroom has to offer. Terri was an incredible host, and my little dog and I felt so welcome and relaxed. It was truly a rejuvenating stay and a must-visit in the Glacier area.

T

Tronin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

Was a great experience. I'm used to a little more isolated camping but neighbors were friendly and kept to theirselves.

K

Kathy

September 2025

Tent