Thompson Chain of Lakes

Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park provides access to several interconnected lakes in the Thompson River drainage of Lincoln County in northwestern Montana. The park spans multiple units along a chain of glacially formed lakes surrounded by dense forests.

The lakes support rainbow trout, bull trout, kokanee salmon, and largemouth bass. Loons, ospreys, and bald eagles are common. The dense surrounding forests shelter black bears, moose, white-tailed deer, and grizzly bears.

The Pacific Northwest-influenced forests include western red cedar, western hemlock, Douglas fir, and western larch. This is some of Montana's most lush forest, receiving high precipitation. Huckleberries are abundant in the understory.

The Thompson Lakes chain was formed by glacial activity during the Pleistocene. The lakes occupy glacially scoured basins and are connected by the Thompson River. The surrounding Cabinet Mountains consist of Belt Supergroup metamorphic rocks.

Northwestern Montana receives the most precipitation in the state, often exceeding 30 inches annually. Winters are cold and snowy, summers mild. The Pacific maritime influence moderates temperatures compared to eastern Montana.

The Thompson Lakes area was utilized by Kootenai peoples. David Thompson, the explorer for whom the river and lakes are named, traveled through northwestern Montana in the early 1800s mapping fur trade routes.

Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park was established with multiple units to provide public access to several lakes in the chain. The park serves both local residents and travelers on Highway 2.

Fishing for various species is the primary draw. Boating and swimming provide summer recreation. The dense forest setting and mountain scenery create an attractive camping environment.

Multiple units along the lake chain offer camping, boat launches, and day-use facilities. The park is accessed from Highway 2 between Kalispell and Libby in Lincoln County.

Bull trout conservation is a priority, as the threatened species depends on these interconnected lake and stream habitats. Forest management in surrounding areas affects water quality and fish habitat.