Lake Bowdoin — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Bowdoin, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Bowdoin today is 17.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.3°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.4°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.4°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.9°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.8°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.8°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.4°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.9°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 23 | 17.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 17.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 17.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 17.9°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.9°C | 17.6°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 0°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| May | 4°C | 13°C | 22°C |
| June | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Lake Bowdoin: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Bowdoin: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Lake Bowdoin, located within the Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge in northern Montana, experiences pronounced seasonal swings in water temperature. In spring, runoff and cool nights typically keep surface temperatures low, roughly 35–50°F (2–10°C). During midsummer on warm, calm days the shallow areas can warm to approximately 60–75°F (16–24°C), though nights and windy periods often bring temperatures down. In early fall the water usually cools to around 40–55°F (4–13°C) as air temperatures decline, and in winter the lake commonly approaches freezing (32°F/0°C) and can be ice-covered. Actual temperatures vary with depth, wind, lake level and local weather, so measured conditions can differ from these general ranges.
Swimming at Lake Bowdoin is not a primary recreational activity and is generally discouraged rather than actively promoted. The lake sits within a wildlife refuge where management priorities emphasize habitat protection and wildlife use; there are no formal beaches, lifeguards, or managed swimming facilities. Additionally, variable water quality, aquatic vegetation and cold temperatures—even in summer—can present safety concerns such as cold-water shock and limited visibility. Visitors seeking to swim in the area should be aware of these factors and follow refuge regulations and posted guidance.