Lake with purple sky

Lake Frances Vacation Rentals

Lake Frances, Montana, United States
48.2865° N, -112.2642° W
Lake Frances
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Lake Frances, situated in the heart of Montana, is a vibrant destination that beckons adventure travelers, wellness seekers, and families alike. This mountain-fed lake, with its warm summer waters, is a hotspot for boating, jet skiing, swimming, and wind surfing. The shores come alive with shore fishing and boat fishing, where anglers can reel in perch, pike, and walleye.

In the winter, the lake transforms into an icy playground for ice fishing, snowmobile ice drags, ice skating, and tubing. The Valier firemen’s pavilion, available for rent, is perfect for family reunions, dances, and wedding receptions, offering a communal space amidst the natural beauty.

Surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, Lake Frances also features a landing strip for those arriving by air. The adjacent Lake Frances Campground & RV Park offers well-groomed campsites, clean restrooms, and amenities like a fish cleaning station and children’s playground. Walking and bike trails provide breathtaking views of the mountain front, memorable sunsets, and an opportunity to spot interesting shorebirds and waterbirds, including a Great Blue Heron rookery on a nearby island.

While there are no immediate museums or historical landmarks nearby, the tranquil and scenic setting of Lake Frances makes it an ideal spot for those seeking outdoor adventures and serene natural beauty.

Surface area (mi)
9.1
Max depth (ft)
41.99
Elevation (ft)
3815.62
Shoreline length (mi)
16.53
Best time to go
Visit Lake Frances in late June through early September, when sun-kissed days draw forth vibrant wildflowers and shimmering waters invite fishing and kayaking. Experience the serene beauty of Montana, unmarred by crowds, and indulge in tranquil sunsets that paint the sky. Don't miss the annual Fort Benton River Breaks Art Festival in mid-August, celebrating local artistry amidst this idyllic haven.
Water Quality
Lake Frances in Montana features water that is predominantly turquoise in color, reflecting the presence of glacial flour. The water clarity is crystal-clear, offering excellent visibility for activities like fishing and boating.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Frances Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Frances. This is because the lake has specific rules prohibiting swimming to maintain its environment and safety.

  • Lake Frances is a popular destination because it offers year-round activities. In the summer, people enjoy shore fishing, boat fishing, boat skiing, and swimming. In the winter, it’s popular for ice fishing, snowmobile ice drags, ice skating, and tubing on the ice. The lake also has a pavilion for events and a playground for kids.

  • For bass and catfish in Lake Frances, Montana, fish between 15″ and 18″ in length must be released back into the lake. You can keep bass and catfish between 10″ and 14″ in length, with a daily limit of five of each per person.

  • There is no public beach at Lake Frances, but there is a boat launch. The lake has two boat ramps and various amenities for boating, fishing, and camping.

  • The town closest to Lake Frances in Montana is Valier. Lake Frances is located southwest of Valier in Pondera County. Valier is a small agriculture-based town right off the lake.