Just 15 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, Hungry Horse Recreation Area offers four-season recreation surrounded by the Flathead National Forest. Hungry Horse Reservoir is a destination for boating, fishing, hiking, camping, huckleberry picking, hunting and snowmobiling. A scenic drive around the reservoir is especially beautiful in fall, when western larch turn brilliant shades of yellow.
EXPLORE THE RESERVOIR
Hungry Horse Reservoir can be accessed from Hungry Horse on the west side or Martin City on the east. The two roads meet near Spotted Bear Ranger Station, creating a scenic loop of approximately 120 miles.
The west-side route leads to Hungry Horse Dam, an impressive 564-foot-high concrete arch dam and one of the largest of its kind in the United States. From the dam, the road continues along the reservoir through forests and mountain scenery, with access to campgrounds, boating sites and recreation areas.
More than a dozen campgrounds are located around the reservoir, along with additional pull-in areas for visitors seeking a quieter camping experience. Many campgrounds offer access to the water, and established campsites on Elk Island and Fire Island provide opportunities for a more secluded overnight stay.
Doris Creek Campground on the west side and Emery Bay Campground on the east side are both less than 20 miles from Glacier National Park. As always, practice Leave No Trace principles and take care with campfires.
SCENIC DRIVES AND WILDLIFE
The full reservoir loop offers abundant opportunities for photography and wildlife watching. The Swan Mountains rise to the west, while the Flathead Range stretches along the eastern horizon. Forested slopes and the deep blue waters of Hungry Horse Reservoir complete the scenery.
Farther south, the reservoir narrows into the South Fork of the Flathead River, which offers opportunities for fishing and floating. A side trip to Spotted Bear Ranger Station provides access to a day-use fishing area, scenic beach and swinging bridge. Nearby Spotted Bear Campground offers another option for an overnight stay.
FIND YOUR OWN SLICE OF SUMMER
July and August are prime months for huckleberry picking. Several roadside pull-offs and campgrounds provide access to berry patches, including Peter’s Creek.
PLAN AHEAD
This is a remote recreation area, so come prepared. Fill your gas tank and stock up on food, water and other supplies before leaving Hungry Horse or Martin City. There are no services along the reservoir roads, and cell service is unavailable in much of the area. Spotted Bear Ranger Station has a public phone.
Road conditions and access vary by season. The roads are primarily dirt and are generally suitable for passenger vehicles, but seasonal closures affect some roads and campgrounds. Check current conditions before setting out and plan accordingly.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
Updated August 26, 2026
August 24, 2020
Related: Boating, Camping/RVing, Fall Fun, Film, GNP Surrounding Area, Hungry Horse, Martin City, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Road Trips, Summer Fun, Vacation, Water Fun
Comments