Those who fantasize about life on the shore of Flathead Lake near Kalispell have a new way to realize that dream-without taking on a second mortgage.
Beginning Jan. 15, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is accepting reservations for summer stays in three yurts located in Big Arm State Park on the west shore of Flathead Lake.
The circular yurts, inspired by 13th century nomadic Mongolians, are made of a wood lattice frame covered with insulated canvas walls, skylights that open, screened windows, solid floors and locking doors. The spacious interiors of each 20-feet in diameter, 10-feet tall structure features simple, comfortable furnishings that seat and sleep from four to six people. Exterior decks provide a spectacular view of Flathead Lake.
The three yurts are ideal for family reunions or other group gatherings.
“For the past several years, there has been only one yurt at this location,” said Dave Landstrom, FWP Region 1 State Park manager in Kalispell. “With the excellent job that our partners in the tourism industry have done publicizing Flathead Lake, that one yurt was extremely popular.” In response, FWP installed two new yurts near the original one.
Big Arm State Park’s three yurts will be available from May 1- Sept. 30. A minimum stay of two nights is required.
“This is your turn-off-the-light, lock-the-door, enjoy-the-rain-on-the-roof form of camping. Yurts are an affordable alternative to camping and a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature without roughing it,” Landstrom said.
To learn more about the yurts at Big Arm State Park, go to Parks Accommodations on the FWP Web site at fwp.mt.gov For reservations, call 406-751-4577, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.