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Montana
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Montana State Parks

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Montana
Glacier Country Region
Flathead Lake State Park - Big Arm Unit
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FLATHEAD LAKE STATE PARK - BIG ARM UNIT
FLATHEAD LAKE STATE PARK - BIG ARM UNIT
490 North Meridian Road
Kalispell, Montana   59901

Phone: 406-849-5255
Reservations: 406-751-4577
Flathead is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States. Twenty eight miles long and 15 miles wide, Flathead Lake is renowned for its fishing. Wild Horse Island, a 2,163 acre wilderness area on the west shore of the lake, is home to bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and wild horses.

On Flathead Lake's Big Arm Bay, this park is a popular jump-off point to Wild Horse Island. Big Arm's long pebble beach is popular with sunbathers and swimmers. Camping under a stand of mature ponderosa pine and juniper is a major attraction. Others include: fishing for lake trout, board sailing, bird watching, scuba diving, swimming and water-skiing. This site is 2,967 feet in elevation and has encompasses 55 acres. The park has both flush and vault toilets, grills/fire rings, firewood, picnic tables, trash cans, drinking water, and seasonal interpretive programs. A golf course and three museums are located in nearby Polson. RV/trailer size is limited to 30 feet in the 29 sites. There are also 6 tent sites available. The Big Arm unit of Flathead Lake State Park now has the latest in circular camping comfort, a 20 feet wide, 10 feet tall yurt. You need only bring bedding, cooking utensils, personal toiletries, a flashlight and a container for water. Electrical outlets, lights, electric heat and a propane barbecue for outdoor cooking are also provided. A joint state/tribal fishing license is needed for fishing at this park and campers may stay only 7 days during a 30 day period.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
Swimming
1. Flathead Lake State Park - Big Arm Unit offers a long pebble beach for swimming.
2. The lake's clear waters are ideal for swimmers of all levels.
3. Lifeguards aren't available, so swim at your own risk and supervise children closely.
4. Swimming is best during summer months when water temperatures rise to comfortable levels.
5. Water shoes may be useful due to the rocky nature of some areas in the park's shoreline.

Boating
The Big Arm Unit offers a wide range of boating options for visitors. It features a long pebble beach where boats can be launched, and the deep waters near this area are ideal for sailing and motor-boating. The park also has boat slips available to rent on an overnight basis or longer-term seasonal leases, providing secure moorage facilities with access to water supply points. Additionally, there is ample space in the marina's parking lot specifically designated for vehicles towing trailers.
Fishing
Big Arm Unit offers fishing opportunities in Montana's largest freshwater lake. Species include Lake Trout, Whitefish and Yellow Perch. Anglers can also catch Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Kokanee Salmon here. Boat ramps are available for easy access to the water.



Picnicking
Flathead Lake State Park - Big Arm Unit offers picnic tables, grills and stunning lake views for a perfect outdoor meal.
Bicycling
Biking is permitted on the park's roads, but not its trails. Be aware of traffic and wildlife.

Mountain biking isn't allowed due to potential damage to natural resources in this area.

Wear a helmet at all times for safety while cycling around the region.

Ensure your bike has proper lights if you plan on riding after dusk or before dawn.

Always follow posted speed limits and be mindful of pedestrians sharing roadways with cyclists.

Remember that Montana law requires bikers under 16 years old must wear helmets when riding.

Check weather conditions beforehand as sudden changes can make paths slippery or difficult to navigate safely.

Stay hydrated during summer months; high temperatures may cause fatigue quicker than expected during rides.



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Area Campgrounds
Polson / Flathead Lake KOA Holiday
200 Irvine Flats Road
Polson, MT
406-883-2151
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Big Arm - Flathead Lake State Park is located 14 miles north of Polson on US HIghway 93.

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Montana
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Montana State Parks

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