The best camping in Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, MT

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Discover the serene beauty of Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park.  

The best camping near Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, MT

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Yes, there really are places left like this. Your bungalow is at the bottom right of this photo.

4. Cozy Mountain Bungalow

100%
(1)
48mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Clark Fork, ID
Snug tiny 8’x12’ bungalow in the woods with everything you need for a not-so-rustic camping experience, surrounded by a forested mountainside. Inside, you’ll find a cozy full-size bed with extra blankets and pillows, a rocking chair, and a small wardrobe. Just outside, there’s a level 8’x8’ tent platform for extra space. Enjoy a big patio with a swing, an outdoor kitchen with seating for four, a fire pit, room to park—and even ingredients for s’mores. The bungalow has power for lights and charging your gadgets, while fresh water comes from a 2.5-gallon spigot tank filled from our deep well. A private, breezy outdoor potty with a bucket toilet is included (and doesn’t stink—we promise!). The outdoor kitchen features a camp stove, sink, counter space, cooking utensils, camp dishes, and more. The outdoor adventure here is endless. Turn right up the road—part of the Idaho Centennial Trail—to explore hundreds of square miles of roads, trails, wildlife, mountains, and rivers. It’s perfect for mountain biking, hunting, or seasonal huckleberry and mushroom picking. Turn left and you’re minutes from Montana, or head to the endlessly scenic Clark Fork River and delta with its dozens of wooded islands. Bring your water toys to enjoy vast Lake Pend Oreille—Idaho’s largest lake and the fifth deepest in the nation—for fishing, boating, swimming, paddling, kayaking, or canoeing. Just across the river, the huge Lightning Creek drainage offers backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, and endless exploring. Further out, you’ll find the town of Sandpoint and, just above it, year-round fun at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort. It all starts right here.
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$52
 / night
Glacier Mountain Ranch Campground

6. Glacier Mountain Ranch Campground

100%
(7)
45mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 4 sites · RVs · Columbia Falls, MT
Glacier Mountain Ranch offers a tranquil 20-acre oasis in the heart of Montana’s Flathead Valley. Our campground offers open spaces with breathtaking views of the Columbia Mountain range, alongside iconic Montana structures inspired by National Park lodges and surrounded by towering Tamarack and Ponderosa Pine trees. The Ranch provides a perfect home base for all kinds of adventures located less than 30 minutes from Glacier National Park, 20 minutes to Glacier Park International Airport and adjacent to the highly coveted resort towns of Columbia Falls, Bigfork, and Whitefish, home to the world renowned Whitefish Mountain Resort. Guests booking via Hipcamp get to enjoy our 6 acre pasture with their van or truck camper of less than 23'. The property has hot outdoor showers, restrooms, our Schoolhouse lounge with Wi-fi, fire pits, and hot organic coffee from Montana Coffee Traders at 7:00 am daily. Check-in is from 4:00 to 7:00 pm daily and guests are asked to arrive at our office for a brief property tour prior to getting settled into their campsite.
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$52
 / night
Bucketlist #1

7. Bucketlist #1

98%
(97)
39mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Big Arm, MT
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.
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$100
 / night
Horses Welcome | Hot Shower Big Sky

8. Horses Welcome | Hot Shower Big Sky

99%
(39)
33mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Kalispell, MT
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!
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$65
 / night
10 Acres of Beauty and Privacy

11. A Place of Tranquility

98%
(121)
33mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Thompson Falls, MT
Whether you’re seeking adventure or solitude, you’ll find it here in Big Sky Country. From the jagged Rocky Mountains to the expansive Great Plains. Green Acres Ranch is home to some of the most beautiful wildlife in the country. The town of Thompson Falls is filled with friendly residents, affordable eatery’s and unique trinket shopping. It's a 20-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride to the famous High Bridge that takes you to the island into town, along with swimming and fishing. Need some space. You’ll find it on our green fields of 10 acres, or 5 acres of forest. Inviting the wild turkeys, geese, elk, eagles and deer. Views are filled with panoramic serene mountains and majestic blue skies. Portable toilets will not be available until the beginning of May and we've got The Best Drinking Water. ~Thank You~
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$40
 / night
Outback Montana RV Park & Campground

13. Outback Montana RV Park & Campground

91%
(68)
47mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · Bigfork, MT
WELCOME TO OUTBACK MONTANA RV PARK! Nestled between Woods Bay and Downtown Bigfork, Outback Montana RV Park is in a prime location for you to explore the BEAUTY that is Flathead Lake and Montana’s most spectacular national forests. Our campsite is unique in that it is heavily forested, shaded, and outdoorsy. We’re not one of those paved glorified parking lots. Outback is an authentic camping experience. We provide everything from 50/amp pull-thru with full water and septic, to grassroots campsites where you can sit back and enjoy the stars. A stone's throw from Flathead Lake, our park is a short distance to several boat launches, and minutes from restaurants and activities ON THE WATER! Come and enjoy Montana with us, we offer exceptional service and our staff is here to help with every aspect of your vacation in paradise! OUR STORY Established in 1976, Outback has a rich history within the Bigfork community. Home to many craftsmen, artists, ranchers, and entrepreneurs. Bigfork was originally a frontier town, and has grown into what some refer to as “The Jewel of the Flathead Valley”. Minutes away, Outback has been a vital support system for the community for over 45 years, housing guests and locals year-round. Outback is proud to support our travelers from abroad, and introduce them to all of the colorful events and festivities that make Bigfork such a wonderful destination! Learn more about local events here. With so many opportunities, and resources yet untapped, we are always upgrading and growing. Learning new things, and new ways to create and support experiences within this beautiful space. Join us! We are so happy to meet you along the way. OUTBACK & BEYOND Outback is proud to support our travelers from abroad, and introduce them to all of the colorful events and festivities that make Bigfork such a wonderful destination! From Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park, boating on Flathead Lake, to running the Spartan Race, or braving the rapids in our Annual Category 4 Whitewater Festival! Outback is your base camp for mission MONTANA THINGS TO DO: •FLATHEAD LAKE Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi in the lower 48 states, with over 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline. Recreation on and around the lake includes sailing, power boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and camping. In the summer, roadside stands along the east shore offer a variety of locally grown cherries, apples, plums, and other fruits. •GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Experience Glacier's pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Explore Glacier National Park and discover what awaits you. •FLY FISHING The Flathead River system of northwestern Montana offers memorable fishing opportunities. From sites of easy access to that remote wilderness, the Flathead waters can provide diverse fishing experiences. Three main branches, the North Fork, Middle Fork, and South Fork, eventually come together to form the main stem of the Flathead River that flows into the 28-mile-long Flathead lake. Access to the three forks and the main Flathead is readily available in places, but to effectively fish the best of the Flathead, floating is suggested. The hardest thing about fly fishing in this part of northwestern Montana is keeping your eye on your fly and not the spectacular scenery. •BIGFORK SUMMER PLAYHOUSE The Bigfork Summer Playhouse was founded in 1960 by Dr. Firman ‘Bo’ Brown and his wife Margery Hunter Brown as a place for University of Montana theatre students to perform in the summer. In the early days of the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, the company ate group meals, rehearsed, and lived in the same place. There were no facilities to build scenery, nor extra storage of any kind. As a matter of fact, the building didn’t even belong to the Bigfork Summer Playhouse — it was a Community Hall owned by the Masons and the Eastern Star and seated approximately 200 people. The summer group would rent the facility and bring in the stage, risers, and seats for the audience. We’re pleased to say that now the playhouse is a 435-seat air-conditioned theater with great fly space, a spacious lobby that contains a concession area, and wonderfully comfortable continental-style seating for hundreds of guests. Numerous spaces off-site to accommodate production needs including a dormitory facility for the actors; living quarters for the directors, technicians, and musicians; costume shop; scene shop; and rehearsal space. •SPARTAN RACE Spartan Race is a series of obstacle races of varying distance and difficulty ranging from 3 miles to marathon distances. They are held in the US and have been franchised to 30 countries including Canada, South Korea, Australia, and several European countries. The series includes the Spartan Sprint, the Spartan Super, the Spartan Beast, and the Spartan Ultra. •WHITEWATER FESTIVAL The Bigfork Whitewater Festival is celebrating 46 years of extreme whitewater action and community-oriented fun! This is the longest-running event in Bigfork and is one that the entire Flathead Valley looks forward to each year. Participants come from around the world to race. Spectators are also a huge part of this festival and come to enjoy the races and other events held in town. •BIGFORK FESTIVAL OF ARTS It was in May of 1978 when the idea of a Bigfork Festival of the Arts was first proposed. As so often happens in Bigfork, it started with a conversation on Electric Ave. between members of the community. The first festival was held on the first weekend in August of 1978. It was a resounding success despite the committee’s inexperience. The feedback from the community was very positive and the group agreed that it should become an annual event. Over the years, the festival has grown steadily to its current size. In 2019, there were more than 140 booths representing a wide variety of arts and crafts by nationally and internationally recognized artists and craftsmen. Festival attendance is estimated to be more than 6,000. •4TH OF JULY PARADE Bigfork knows how to throw a party. And when it’s our country’s birthday, Bigfork really knows how to celebrate. The centerpiece of the celebration is the annual parade through Bigfork which begins at noon. Bring your whole family to view our great parade to celebrate the birth of our country. The 4th of July Parade in Bigfork has been voted “Best Parade in the Flathead” year after year.
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$30
 / night
Lake Access 1 mile from property.

16. BnR Horse Ranch

100%
(19)
33mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Libby, MT
Are you looking for an adventure and opportunities to explore the wilderness and Lake Koocanusa? Come experience camping off grid in the true beautiful nature and wildlife of Montana. I have an off grid ranch on 161 acres bordered by the Kootenai National Forest and Lake Koocanusa just down the dirt road. It's very wooded but does have a few open meadows. My land is very private surrounded by beautiful mountains, forestry, wildlife and streams/creeks. The lake has a great beach front for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, etc. There's a boat launch 3 miles away for bigger boats or pontoons. My property also provides direct access to hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horse trail riding, biking, snowmobiling and 4-wheeling. Want to bring your horse? We also offer horse camping, trail riding with overnight trail camping options and stall boarding. Round pen and outdoor arena available soon. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or park your RV next to the creek or anywhere on our 161 acres surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest. Full access to Lake Koocanusa for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, etc. Immediate access to Kootenai National Forest with hundred miles of trails for hiking, 4-wheeling, biking, etc. Tour Libby Dam and visitor center located about 4 miles away. Also offer horse camping and trail riding.
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$30
 / night
Burke Creekside lisa J's

17. Burke Creekside lisa J's

95%
(355)
50mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallace, ID
We are excited to host you at our special property! It is The perfect location for RV camping (tent camping allowed if accompanied by an RV). Whether you are just relaxing by the creek with friends and family or ready for an adventure. Burke is the spot for ATVs and Snowmobiling, Fishing, Hunting, Biking (Hiawatha Trail) Hiking, and Sightseeing old Mines. We now have STARLINK. We also have a Chalet for rent on our property. This is a gorgeous, serene getaway in the Historic ghost town of Burke Idaho. Built in the early 1900's and newly remodeled with all the comforts of home. Located 7.5 miles northeast from the town of Wallace. Centrally located within minutes of 2 major Ski resorts. Private hot tub, wood stove and many other features. Immediate access to many snowmobile, ATV, or hiking trails from the front door of this home. Home includes an attached garage and lots of parking for trucks with trailers. Year round activities available throughout the area including snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, hiking and biking or just take a stroll along the creek or play in the snow.
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$35
 / night
⭐️Glacier RV Oasis/Mountain Views

19. ⭐️Glacier RV Oasis/Mountain Views

98%
(65)
47mi from Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbia Falls, MT
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!
Pets
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$45
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park adventure.

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The best camping in Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, MT guide

Overview

About

A choice you'll always cherish, camping near Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park offers easy access to endless trails and miles of shoreline. This vast expanse in northwest Montana presents campers with a unique fusion of pristine lakes and flourishing wildlife, making it an ultimate outdoor paradise.

The park stretches across a 20-mile-long chain of captivating lakes, including the renowned McGregor Lakes, the Thompson Lakes, Horseshoe Lake, and Loon Lake. Each of these lakes not only graces the landscape with their aquatic charm but also beckons adventurers with a plethora of activities. From a leisurely swim to the adrenaline rush of water skiing, there's something for everyone. For those who are thrilled by boating, the expansive water bodies provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable sailing experience.

What sets a Thompson Chain of Lakes camping trip apart is the exceptional fishing opportunities. With an array of fish species, including black crappie, brook trout, lake trout, northern pike, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, kokanee salmon, westslope cutthroat trout, and yellow perch, it's an angler's delight. Each cast of the line into these fertile waters promises an exciting tussle with nature.

To top it all, the state park offers some of the finest wildlife viewing experiences in northwest Montana. Campers are often treated to enchanting sights of local fauna in their natural habitat, adding an extra layer of excitement to their outdoor adventure. Camping near Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, is not just a getaway; it's an invitation to explore the splendid diversity of these glacial kettle lakes.

Notable campgrounds

  • Logan State Park: Ideal for larger camping units with developed sites and scenic lake views.
  • Lower Thompson Lake: Offers a rustic camping experience with stunning natural surroundings.
  • Upper Thompson Lake: Secluded spots perfect for anglers and those seeking tranquility.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak summer months, to secure your ideal campsite.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative sites if the park is fully booked.

When to go

The park is open year-round, offering distinct experiences each season. Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, while fall's cooler weather is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Winter provides a peaceful, snowy landscape, though roads are not maintained. Spring can be wet, so prepare for variable conditions.

Know before you go

  • Check for any restrictions and closures before your visit, especially during extreme weather.
  • Roads within the park are primitive; large trailers and motor homes are not recommended.
  • There is no drinking water available on-site, so bring ample supplies.
  • Montana residents with the state parks fee included in their vehicle registration enjoy free entry.
  • Nonresidents should be prepared to pay a day use entrance fee, with discounts for walk-ins and cyclists.
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