Flathead National Forest campgrounds start opening

Flathead National Forest campgrounds will start opening in early May. Weather permitting, all campgrounds are scheduled to be open by the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

The Emery Bay, Murray Bay, Doris Creek, Lost Johnny, Devil Creek, Lid Creek and Riverside campgrounds and associated boat launches along the Hungry Horse Reservoir are all scheduled to open Friday, May 23.

The Big Creek Campground in the North Fork is scheduled to open Thursday, May 15. The Holland Lake, Swan Lake and Tally Lake campgrounds are scheduled to open Friday, May 9.

These campgrounds and recreation areas are operated by the forest concessioner Barta Enterprises Inc., known locally as Flathead Valley Campgrounds.

There are a few changes this year. Campground fees will be charged per camping unit, such as an RV, a vehicle with tent, a camper or a trailer. A $5 fee will be charged for each additional vehicle.

The Spotted Bear Campground at the south end of the Hungry Horse Reservoir is operated by the Forest Service and will open for primitive camping starting Thursday, May 15, if road conditions permit access. Water and services will be available May 23.

In addition to campgrounds, boat launches and day-use areas, the Flathead Forest also has 14 rental cabins. To rent a cabin or to reserve select campground sites, visit online at www.recreation.gov.

Campers and visitors are reminded that by law all food and food-related items must be stored in a bear-resistant manner. The Flathead Forest is home to grizzly and black bears, and responsible human actions will help with unwanted bear encounters.

Campers are also reminded to be careful with fire. Never leave a fire unattended and be sure a fire is “dead out” before leaving.

Hikers should be aware that conditions may be different than usual for this time of year on wilderness and upper-elevation trails. A combination of recent upper-elevation snow and recent heavy runoff is blocking traditional routes that hikers often use this time of year. Some water-crossings may be unsafe to cross on foot or with stock.

For more information about campgrounds, fees and food storage regulations on the Flathead National Forest, visit online at www.fs.usda.gov/flathead.

For the latest information on conditions and openings, call the Glacier View/Hungry Horse Ranger District at 387-3800, the Spotted Bear Ranger District at 758-5376, the Tally Lake Ranger District at 758-5204 and the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.