Tally Lake Campground

For dining options near Tally Lake Campground, Whitefish offers a variety of restaurants. Tupelo Grille is known for its Cajun-style cuisine and cozy atmosphere, featuring a full bar and live music. Whitefish Lake Restaurant offers a log-beam dining room with a focus on steak and seafood, complemented by a long wine list. Abruzzo Italian Kitchen provides a modern Italian dining experience with wood-fired pizzas and a cozy lounge. Buffalo Cafe is a family-run eatery serving classic American fare, including breakfast and burgers. These restaurants offer a range of culinary experiences, from fine dining to casual meals, all within a short drive from the campground.

Each restaurant offers unique highlights, such as live music at Tupelo Grille and a fireplace at Abruzzo Italian Kitchen, making them appealing for different tastes and occasions.

For accommodations near Tally Lake Campground, Whitefish offers several excellent hotels. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is an upscale lakeside resort with rustic-chic rooms and suites, featuring a spa and high-end dining options. The Pine Lodge on Whitefish River offers rustic-accented rooms and suites with amenities like indoor and outdoor pools and free breakfast. Both hotels provide comfortable stays with easy access to outdoor activities and the charm of Whitefish.

These hotels cater to different preferences, whether you're looking for luxury and spa treatments or a more rustic, family-friendly environment. They are well-suited for travelers seeking a comfortable base while exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Tally Lake Campground offers basic yet comfortable amenities for campers. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, and there are vault toilets available throughout the campground. Drinking water is accessible via water spigots, and a dump station is available for RVs. The campground also features a boat launch, a designated swimming area, and a day-use area with a picnic pavilion and volleyball court. Firewood can be purchased from the camp host, adding to the rustic camping experience.

The day-use area is particularly popular, with its large grassy spaces and wildlife interpretive signs, making it ideal for picnics and relaxation. The absence of electric hookups and showers keeps the experience more primitive, aligning with the natural surroundings of the Flathead National Forest.

Tally Lake Campground offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes on the lake, with opportunities to catch trout and northern pike. Swimming is also available in the designated swimming area, though the water can be quite cold. Hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground, providing scenic views and varying levels of difficulty. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with rentals available near the boat ramp.

For those interested in wildlife, the area is great for spotting waterfowl, bald eagles, and other species. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are options for those who enjoy winter sports. The campground's proximity to other trails and attractions in the Flathead National Forest makes it a hub for outdoor adventure.

While Tally Lake Campground offers basic amenities, it does not specifically highlight extensive disability access features. However, the vault toilets are accessible, and the campground's layout allows for relatively easy navigation. For those with mobility issues, it might be beneficial to contact the campground ahead of time to inquire about specific accommodations or challenges related to the terrain and facilities.

Parking at Tally Lake Campground is generally available on-site, with spaces allocated for campers and day-use visitors. The campground is accessible via a paved road, making it suitable for vehicles of all sizes, including RVs and trailers. However, parking spaces may be limited during peak season, so it's advisable to arrive early. There are no specific parking fees mentioned, but additional vehicles may incur a small charge per night.

Given the remote location, it's essential to check road conditions before visiting, especially during the off-season when roads might be closed or treacherous due to snow.

Tally Lake is notable for being the second deepest natural lake in Montana, with a depth of approximately 445 feet. This depth contributes to its cold water temperatures, making it a challenging yet rewarding spot for fishing and swimming. The lake's pristine condition and surrounding forest make it a haven for wildlife, including bears, eagles, and various fish species.

The area around Tally Lake has a rich natural history, with the campground offering a glimpse into the region's untouched beauty. Visitors often report spotting wildlife and enjoying the serene atmosphere, making it a unique and memorable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tally Lake Campground is surrounded by several attractions that make it an ideal base for exploring the region. The nearby Whitefish Lake is about 20 miles away and offers additional opportunities for boating and fishing. The Forest Service Summit Nature Center at Whitefish Mountain Resort is another popular destination, accessible via a chairlift or hiking trails. This center provides insights into the local ecosystem and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The campground itself is nestled within the Flathead National Forest, which offers numerous hiking trails, scenic vistas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The proximity to Whitefish town also allows visitors to enjoy local shops, restaurants, and cultural events.