Crystal Lake Group Campsite
Closed for the season. The campground typically opens around June 2 and closes in late October when snow conditions prevail. The paved road section is gated December 1, limiting winter access to non-motorized travel only.
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
R1-2023-02 - NCDE Food and Wildlife Attractant Storage Order
Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem Food/Wildlife Attractant Storage Order for the Flathead, Lolo, Kootenai, Helena-Lewis and Clark, and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests within the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem.
About
Crystal Lake Group Campsite is a dedicated group camping area within the Crystal Lake Recreation Complex in Montana's Big Snowy Mountains. Located at 5,700 feet elevation in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, this reservable site offers a more private camping experience for groups of up to 24 people. The site features two large picnic tables, a metal fire ring, asphalt walkways and tent pads, with an adjacent meadow for additional tent space. A vault toilet is located near the parking area, and seasonal potable water is available via a spring faucet. The surrounding area provides excellent recreational opportunities. Crystal Lake is well-suited for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. Several trails depart from the complex, including paths to ice caves and the Crystal Lake Loop Trail, offering scenic views of Mt. Harlow and the surrounding peaks. The area also features a cave with ancient hieroglyphs. Access requires a 20-mile drive south from Highway 200 on Crystal Lake Road, with the final 6 miles paved but mostly single-lane. A food storage order is in effect from March 1 through December 1 to prevent bear conflicts. The paved road section is gated on December 1, restricting winter access to snowmobile, skis, snowshoes, or hiking only.
Directions
From Lewistown, drive west on Montana Highway 200/US 87 for about 8 miles. Turn left (south) on Crystal Lake Road. Continue south, following well-signed directions to the lake for 20 miles. At the T junction, turn left and continue to Crystal Lake. The last 6 miles is paved and mostly single-lane.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 35ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 566-2292 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!