Wayfarers State Park was one of my favorite spots to visit when I was a teenager and had just gotten my license. There's a bunch to see near Bigfork like Jewel Basin, Swan Lake, and the town itself. However, if you want to spend an afternoon in a kayak or resting near the water, Wayfarers is a great option. Just keep in mind that it can be super busy during the summer and it might take some time find some parking.
Everything you need to know about Wayfarers State Park
Heading to Wayfarers State Park? Here's why it should be a stop on your Montana road trip!
Map of Wayfarers State Park
Where is Wayfarers State Park?
Wayfarers State Park is located on the banks of Flathead lake in the north west corner of Montana, the park is located next to the town of Bigfork. The entrance to the park is only a mile from downtown Bigfork making it an ideal walk from town or as a camper, to run into town for supplies.
How big is Wayfarers State Park?
Wayfarers State Park is 67 acres in area. The park is composed of mature mixed growth forest with a relatively level terrain. While the park's landmass may be small compared to other state parks in Montana, the access to Flathead Lake's 200 square miles of water gives the feeling of a much larger park.
What hours is Wayfarers State Park open?
The park is open for daily activity from 7 am to 10 pm year-round. Camping is only available from April to October. It should be noted that while the park and camping are open, running water and bathrooms are only open from May to September.
How much does it cost to enter Wayfarer State Park?
Montana residents have the option of purchasing an annual state park pass of $9 USD when they renew their registration. Residents who do not purchase the pass must pay the daily fees at the non resident rate.
Non-residents must pay a daily use fee of $8 USD for a personal vehicle or $4 USD for a bicycle or bus passenger.
Can you camp in Wayfarers State Park?
Camping is available at Wayfarers State Park allowing guests to take advantage of some of the best camping in Bigfork Montana. The cost of these sites vary depending on the time of year and amenities included. Reservations of campsites can be made up to six months before the date. Of the 30 campsites in the park, nine are hike and bike accessible and the remaining 21 are designed for RV use. Check in time is 2 pm and check out time is 1 pm, campers may not stay for more than 30 days.
Can I bring my dog to Wayfarers State Park?
Yes. Campers and day adventures can bring their dogs to wayfarer park. Pets must be kept on a leash. For those staying at Wayfarers Campground there is a requested quiet time between 10 pm and 7 am.
What are the things to do in Wayfarers State Park?
Despite its small size Wayfarers state park in Montana has an abundance of activities to engage in. With access to flathead lake campers can enjoy boating, sailing, fishing, and kayaking. There are several trails that are ideal for bikers and hikers, even those with dogs. For campers and day trippers there are outdoor grills and picnic tables for enjoying a meal outside.
For park guests with children there is also a playground located in the park. The park's beaches are excellent for swimming and offer incredible views of flathead lake. The most iconic aspect of Wayfarers State Park is the views from the cliffs overlooking Flathead lake. For campers looking to relax the best activity in the park may be to sit and enjoy the view.
What do I need to know about boating at Wayfarers State Park?
Boaters will find that Wayfarers park is an excellent staging area for their water activities. Boats may be launched from public ramps located in the park. There is a pier style dock that is best utilized when lake levels are low, the dock is for loading and unloading only. There are several rules to follow while boating in the area.
Boaters should maintain at least 50 feet from any angler or swimmer (with the exception of rendering aid). Boaters must obey all posted signs such as no wake zones. Boaters must park their boat trailers in designated areas only. After ensuring boating is done safely, visitors can enjoy water skiing, pleasure boating, and the excellent lake trout fishing.
Can I rent a kayak or canoe near Wayfarers State Park?
Yes. There are several Rental companies around Wayfarers campground. Most rentals are for half or full day prices and include paddle, PFD (life jacket), and optional accessories. Kayak and canoe tours are also provided by many companies that offer rentals.
Tours are not offered during the entire year so it is wise to call and verify the tour schedule ahead of your trip. Some rental companies offer free delivery and pick up for the kayaks so even those who are biking through the area can enjoy paddling the lake.
What do I need to know about biking in Wayfarers State Park?
Wayfarer State Park is an ideal stopover for bikers traveling the Great Divide bike route. With bike camping spots and a short ride into Bigfork for additional supplies, camping in the park is an easy choice. For bikers enjoying the park it should be known that there is no mountain biking permitted on the loop trail.
What do I need to know about having a fire in Wayfarers State Park?
Fires are allowed at Wayfarer Campground. Fires are only permitted in designated areas. Designated areas in the park include campsite fire pits and grills. Every campsite is equipped with a metal fire ring to keep fires in check. Check with the rangers upon entering to see if there are any restrictions regarding increased wildfire risk.
Hiking trails in Wayfarers State Park
With a mixed terrain of hardwood forest and mature growth conifers the entire park is walkable. Wayfarers state park has one major hiking trail, the Wayfarer State Park Loop.
Wayfarers State Park Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.8
The Park Loop is a pleasant and popular hike starting at the parking lot and extending out to a cliffside overlook or Flathead Lake. The trail is cleared with signs for most of the route. The greatest elevation change is 286 feet. Between distance and ease of terrain most hikers can complete this trail in less than an hour. Expect other hikers and dog walkers on the trail during the warmer months. For wildlife enthusiasts and photographers the early morning and evening are the best times to hike, fewer hikers means more wildlife on the trail.
Have any questions about visiting Wayfarers State Park? Let me know in the comments!
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