The sun dips behind a horizon of jagged, snow-capped peaks, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and purple and you have a front row seat because you’re camping in Glacier National Park. You zip up your tent, nestled amidst ancient cedars, knowing tomorrow brings a new day of exploring pristine wilderness and spotting incredible wildlife. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the profound reality of camping in Glacier National Park.
Camping in Glacier National Park has been one of the top 5 outdoor experiences in my life. I’ve been very lucky to spend a lot of time in a variety of National Parks and other incredible outdoor locations and believe me when I tell you, Glacier is truly something special. Let me help you choose the best Glacier National Park campground for your needs!
Best Camping in Glacier National Park
Understanding Glacier’s Camping Landscape
Before we jump into the best camping in Glacier National Park, let’s review some terminology to make sure we’re all on the same page!
Types of Camping
- Frontcountry (Developed Campgrounds): Most frontcountry campgrounds in Glacier are very popular and require reservations in advance. Many include amenities such as flush toilets, potable water, and campsites with picnic tables & fire rings.
- Backcountry (Wilderness Camping): These campsites require campers to hike deep into Glacier backcountry. These campsites also require reservations in advance through a permit system. Though rewarding in many ways, these sites are only for very experiences campers.
- Reservation vs. First-Come, First-Served
- Reservation means the campsite is reserved through Recreation.gov (specific links provided below) well in advance.
Glacier National Park campground reservations open on a rolling basis, six months in advance of the first day of your desired stay. For example, if you want to camp on July 15th, you can book starting January 15th. - First-Come, First-Served (or FCFS) means the available campgrounds are secured on a ‘whoever gets there first’ basis.
To better your chances of securing FCFS spots we recommend you arrive early and mid-week whenever possible.
- Reservation means the campsite is reserved through Recreation.gov (specific links provided below) well in advance.
- Operating Seasons: Most of Glacier National Park’s campgrounds are seasonal (late spring-autumn)
The Best Frontcountry Campgrounds in Glacier National Park
While backcountry camping offers unparalleled solitude, Glacier’s frontcountry campgrounds provide a fantastic balance of accessibility, amenities, and stunning scenery. These developed sites allow you to immerse yourself in the park’s beauty without needing extensive wilderness experience, making them perfect for families, first-time visitors, or those who prefer a few more comforts.
Here are some of the top frontcountry campgrounds you’ll want to consider for your Glacier adventure:
Many Glacier Campground
Best Camping in Glacier National Park for Hiking & Wildlife
📍 Many Glacier
- Location: East side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet, about 22 miles from St. Mary.
- Key Features/Vibe: Often considered the prime location for hiking and wildlife viewing in Glacier. Situated in a mature Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and quaking aspen forest, providing partial shade. Surrounded by dramatic mountain views of Altyn, Henkel, Wilber, Grinnell Point, Allen, and Wynn. Can be very popular and busy.
- Amenities: Potable water at shared spigots, flush toilets, sinks with cold running water, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers. A dump station is available. Showers and laundry facilities are a short walk away at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn.
- Proximity to Attractions: Direct access to some of the park’s most iconic and challenging day hikes and backpacking trails, including Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Redrock Falls. Close to Swiftcurrent Lake and Many Glacier Hotel (offering dining, boat tours, and interpretive programs). Excellent for wildlife viewing (bears, bighorn sheep, moose).
- Reservation Status: All sites require a reservation via Recreation.gov. Reservations are highly competitive and should be made well in advance.
Note: The campground may experience closures or restrictions due to construction or bear activity, so check current alerts.
Many Glacier Campground is best for avid hikers because it boasts close proximity to some of the East-sides most popular trails. It’s also one of the best camping in Glacier National Park for wildlife viewing due to its diverse ecosystems and abundant food sources. The area is known for frequent sightings of black and grizzly bears, as well as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and moose.
This is a very popular spot in Glacier National Park making it a very popular campground. We were unable to snag any nights here and instead took day trips from St. Mary (arriving around 5AM each day) which provided us with so many beautiful wildlife sightings. A mama moose and her calf might’ve been the highlight of a dark, 4:30 AM , bumpy drive into the park on day two!
St. Mary Campground
Best Campground in Glacier for Easy Access to Going to the Sun Road
📍East Glacier
- Location: East side, near St. Mary Visitor Center.
- Key Features/Vibe: Mountain views, mix of open/shaded sites, quiet Loop A (no generators).
- Amenities: Potable water, flush toilets, picnic tables, bear-proof storage, and showers
- Proximity to Attractions: Near St. Mary Visitor Center, Going-to-the-Sun Road (east entrance which does not require reservations), and popular waterfall trailheads.
- Reservation Status: Primarily reservation-based during peak season, with some FCFS options
St. Mary Campground is great for hikers seeking access to a variety of trails. Many Glacier is a 45 minutes drive away, Two Medicine is about an hour and a half, and you have full access to Going to the Sun road without a reservation. This side of the park is also much more quiet than the West side of Glacier wile still providing a lot of great amenities.
We spent a majority of our trip at St. Mary since it allowed us to explore the East end of the park and day trip to Many Glacier. Our site has great privacy as we were surrounded by bushes and the shower access was pretty clutch (although we also enjoyed icy swims in St. Mary Lake each evening as well).
Apgar Campground
Best Campground in Glacier for family-friendly village life
📍West Glacier
- Location: West Glacier, situated on the southern tip of Lake McDonald, about 2.3 miles from the West Entrance on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Key Features/Vibe: Glacier’s largest campground, set amidst trees providing shade and some privacy. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Apgar Village, offering a “village life” feel within the park. Evening ranger programs are held at the amphitheater.
- Amenities: Potable water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and bear-proof food storage lockers. A dump station is available and there are showers in Loop A as well.
- Proximity to Attractions: Just a short stroll to Lake McDonald for swimming, boating, kayaking, and enjoying stunning sunsets. Minutes from Apgar Village, which has a visitor center, gift shops, a general store, a casual restaurant, boat rentals, horseback ride reservations, and a shuttle service.
- Reservation Status: Reservation required during the peak season (typically May through October) via Recreation.gov. Group sites are also reservable. Open year-round, with primitive camping (no water/flush toilets) and free sites in the winter.
Apgar campground is the best camping in Glacier National Park for families, those seeking easy access to amenities and activities, and visitors who enjoy a more social camping experience. It’s a busy area of the park with a lot of every day conveniences making it perfect for the above mentioned groups of people. The campground also provides convenient access to Lake McDonald and the West Glacier area which is a very popular area of the park.
If you don’t mind busy, Apgar is great. We loved being able to ride our bikes into the village for ice cream at night and a sunrise coffee in the morning! Despite how busy it is, the campsites are spaced out decently enough that you truly don’t feel cramped.
Two Medicine Campground
Best Campground in Glacier for quiet, scenic views
📍Two Medicine
- Location: Southeastern part of Glacier National Park, approximately 13 miles north of East Glacier.
- Key Features/Vibe: A quieter, more remote campground offering stunning views of Two Medicine Lake and surrounding mountain peaks like Rising Wolf Mountain. Sites are generally shaded by trees, providing some privacy. Known for its peaceful, serene atmosphere.
- Amenities: Potable water, flush toilets (during peak season), picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage. A camp store/gift shop and ranger station are nearby. An amphitheater hosts evening programs in the summer.
- Proximity to Attractions: Excellent base for exploring the Two Medicine Valley. Offers numerous day hiking opportunities directly from the campground, including the accessible Running Eagle Falls Trail, Aster Falls, and longer hikes like the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop. Boat tours and rentals are available on Two Medicine Lake.
- Reservation Status: Primarily reservation-based during the peak season via Recreation.gov. Some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during primitive camping seasons. Hiker/biker sites are generally first-come, first-served.
Two Medicine campground provides a frontcountry camping experience that’s quiet and less crowded with incredible views. It’s also a great option for avid hikers as there is direct access to a variety of scenic trails straight from the campground. Anyone who wants to immerse themselves in stunning mountain and lake views away from the main Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor should consider camping in the Two Medicine Area.
Our first night in Glacier was spent at Two Medicine and it was a complete dream. To watch the sun set on the surrounding mountains as your first glimpse of such a special park is a memory to hold on to forever. What’s better? Waking up in the morning to the sunrise glimmer on the lake. This area of the park is truly special!
Bowman Lake Campground
Best Campground in Glacier for first come first served remote access
📍North Fork
- Location: North Fork area of Glacier National Park, approximately 32.5 miles from the West Entrance. Accessed via a slow, dusty, and bumpy dirt road (trailers and RVs are not recommended).
- Key Features/Vibe: A remote and serene small campground offering an authentic, unplugged wilderness experience. Sites are nestled in a dense, forested area, providing significant shade and privacy. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of Bowman Lake and surrounding mountains.
- Amenities: Potable water (via spigots), pit toilets (vault toilets), picnic tables, and fire rings. Bear-proof food storage lockers are available. There are no showers, flush toilets, cell service, or internet connectivity.
- Proximity to Attractions: Just a short walk to Bowman Lake, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and relaxing by the water. Offers access to various hiking trails, including the easy Akokala Lake trail and the more strenuous Numa Ridge Lookout. The nearby Polebridge Mercantile (outside the park) offers basic supplies, incredible baked goods, and a unique historical experience.
- Reservation Status: First-come, first-served (FCFS) only. It is highly recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, as spots fill up.
Bowman Lake Campground is some of the best camping in Glacier National Park for tent campers and van lifers seeking a rustic, quiet, and secluded experience away from the main crowds. It is ideal for those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in a truly wild setting, with opportunities for lake activities and hiking without any crowds.
We especially loved how close we were to a lake that no one else was at because we shared a campground with about 5 other total people… Bowman Lake Campground is it when it comes to solitude. Don’t say we didn’t warn you: the road in can be a toughy! If rough roads don’t phase you, look into Kintla Lake Campground as well.
Rising Sun Campground
Best Campground in Glacier for quaint first come, first served views of St. Mary Lake
📍East Glacier
- Location: East side of the park, approximately 6 miles from the St. Mary entrance and halfway along St. Mary Lake, adjacent to the Rising Sun Motor Inn.
- Key Features/Vibe: Offers beautiful sunrises with Red Eagle Mountain as a backdrop. Features a mix of open sites for cool breezes and shaded sites among trees for privacy. Known for being a convenient base camp for day hikes east of Logan Pass. Bear sightings are common in the area.
- Amenities: Potable water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers. A camp store, restaurant, and showers are located nearby at the Rising Sun Motor Inn.
- Proximity to Attractions: Easy access to boat tours on St. Mary Lake and shuttle service. Conveniently located for exploring the eastern section of Going-to-the-Sun Road and accessing trailheads like Otokomi Lake.
- Reservation Status: First-come, First-served (FCFS) only. It is highly recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.
Rising Sun campground provides one of the best camping in Glacier National Parks experiences for those who prioritize quiet, stunning sunrise views with convenient access to amenities like a store and restaurant.
It’s also the best option for those looking for a first-come, first-served campgrounds option on the east side of the park with good access to hiking and St. Mary Lake activities.
Backcountry Camping: For the True Adventurer
For those truly seeking solitude and an unfiltered connection with Glacier’s raw wilderness, backcountry camping is an unforgettable experience. Unlike frontcountry campgrounds, backcountry sites are primitive, often accessible only by foot or horseback, and require self-sufficiency. It’s about carrying everything you need on your back and leaving no trace behind, allowing for an immersive journey deep into the park’s untouched landscapes.
Permit System
Backcountry camping in Glacier requires a strict permit system to protect the wilderness and manage visitor impact. Permits are highly competitive and can be obtained through a lottery system (often opening in early spring) or on a first-come, first-served basis for walk-up permits. Planning well in advance is crucial, as popular itineraries fill up quickly. Be prepared with alternative routes and dates.
Popular Backcountry Zones/Trails
Glacier offers an extensive network of backcountry trails and campsites. Some highly sought-after areas include:
- Sperry Chalet Area: While the chalet itself offers lodging, nearby backcountry sites provide access to iconic hikes like Sperry Glacier and stunning alpine scenery.
- Bowman Lake & Kintla Lake (North Fork): Beyond the frontcountry campgrounds, these areas extend into pristine wilderness, offering quieter trails and remote lakeside campsites.
- Boulder Pass: This site is praised for its alpine environment, good water sources, and stunning views. It also has a well-regarded latrine.
- Cracker Lake: A popular destination for its scenic beauty and access to additional trails.
- Elizabeth Lake: A beautiful lake in the Many Glacier area, accessible via a rewarding hike, with designated campsites offering incredible views.
- Dawson-Pitamakan Loop: A challenging but immensely rewarding multi-day loop that traverses two high mountain passes, offering panoramic vistas and diverse ecosystems.
Essential Backcountry Gear
Success and safety in the backcountry depend heavily on proper gear. Do not plan a backcountry stay if you are not prepared to handle encounters with grizzly and black bears, proper disposal of human waste, and basic first aid needs.
- Bear Canister/Approved Food Storage: Absolutely mandatory for all food and scented items to protect both campers and bears.
- Tent and Sleep System: Designed for backpacking. Which means it’s durable enough to withstand mountain weather but light enough to be carried.
- Navigation Tools: Topographic maps, compass, and a GPS device (and knowing how to use them, as cell service is non-existent).
- Water Filter/Purifier: Essential for safe drinking water from natural sources.
- First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive enough for minor injuries and emergencies. But make sure you have a means to contact someone if the emergency is not minor.
- Appropriate Clothing Layers: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Be sure to pack your winter layers, just incase.
- Bear Spray: Carried by each person and easily accessible on hip or backpack strap at all times.
Backcountry Safety Considerations
Backcountry travel in Glacier comes with inherent risks that require careful preparation:
- Bear Safety: Beyond food storage, know how to react to bear encounters, make noise on trails, and travel in groups.
- Weather Preparedness: Be ready for sudden shifts, including snow, even in summer. Hypothermia is a real risk.
- Leave No Trace Principles: Crucial for preserving the wilderness. Pack out everything you pack in, dispose of waste properly, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife.
- Route Finding: Trails can be challenging, and conditions can obscure paths. Strong navigation skills are vital.
- Physical Fitness: Backcountry trips often involve significant elevation gain and mileage. Be sure you are physically prepared.
- Emergency Plan: Share your itinerary with someone reliable and know how to signal for help if needed.
10 Tips for the Best Camping in Glacier National Park Experience
The best camping in Glacier National Park comes from being well-prepared! Any of Glacier’s incredibe campgrounds will leave you longing to return; it’s how you prepare for your trip that matters most!
1. How far in advance should I make camping reservations?
Reservations are absolutely key for a successful trip, especially during peak season. You should book your campsite as far in advance as possible, as popular spots fill up incredibly quickly.
Looking for a site that’s been reserved? Don’t forget to set your campground alerts in Rec.gov for updates on when campsites become available.
2. When is the best time to visit Glacier National Park for camping?
While peak season (July-August) offers full access to all areas and amenities, shoulder seasons (late May-June and September-early October) can provide fewer crowds and beautiful conditions, though some services or roads might be limited. It’s important to note that Going to the Sun road doesn’t normally open until late June/early July.
3. Do I need a vehicle reservation for the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes, during peak season, a vehicle reservation system is often in place for certain areas, including sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for the most current requirements before your trip.
If you’re driving Going-to-the-Sun-Road from the East side of the park, a timed entry vehicle reservation is not necessary.
4. What transportation options are available within the park?
Beyond driving your own vehicle (with potential reservations), Glacier offers a convenient shuttle system along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which can help you access trailheads and reduce parking stress.
You can actually even use these shuttles to make it all the way from one end of the park to the other and back! Make sure you plan accordingly with last pick up and drop off times of the day.
5. What are the most important bear safety rules to follow?
Bear safety is paramount in Glacier. Always use proper food storage (bear boxes or canisters) for all food and scented items when not in immediate use. This means, do not leave food and cooking items out on your picnic table for an extended period of time and definitely do not leave them unattended for any amount of time.
When hiking and walking around camp, carry bear spray and know how to use it. It does help to make noise while hiking and hanging around to avoid surprising bears.
6. What are the “Leave No Trace” principles, and why are they important?
Leave No Trace principles are crucial for all outdoor adventures, and especially in pristine, busy locations like Glacier National Park. Always pack out everything you pack in, dispose of waste properly, minimize your campfire impacts, and respect wildlife by observing from a distance and never feeding them, and just be an all around good human.
Be kind to others, especially park rangers, and obey all posted signage and follow all park regulations. Some important ones that stand out in my mind include not brining dogs on the trail, not flying a drone, and not defacing beautiful natural spaces with carvings or paintings. These things are actually illegal in the National Park and you can fined if found disobeying these rules.
7. How should I prepare for Glacier’s unpredictable weather?
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always pack in layers, including waterproof and windproof outer shells, even in summer. Be prepared for sudden temperature drops and unexpected rain or even snow.
We were lucky to experience beautiful sunshine for 7 straight days, however, it was incredibly hot as the whole country was in a heat wave. We were chilly at night and using all of our layers but very hot during the day and neded sun protection & hydration.
8. Will I have cell service or internet connectivity in the park?
Cell service and internet connectivity are very limited and unreliable throughout much of Glacier National Park. Be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness without constant digital access.
9. Beyond standard camping gear, what essential items should I pack?
Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife viewing, a water filter or purifier for safe drinking water on trails, a headlamp for navigating in the dark (which should be in your backpack while hiking, just incase!), a comprehensive first-aid kit, and a detailed park map (physical map is highly recommended due to lack of cell service).
10. Are there ranger programs or activities available at campgrounds?
Many frontcountry campgrounds, like Apgar and Two Medicine, host evening ranger programs at their amphitheaters during the summer season, offering educational and entertaining insights into the park’s natural and cultural history.
We also always recommend you talk to the interpretive rangers at the visitor centers. They are always full of great information; some of our favorite hikes of all time have been ranger-recommended!
Conclusion
Camping in Glacier National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly connect with one of America’s most magnificent wilderness areas. Whether you opt for the convenience of a frontcountry site or the rugged solitude of the backcountry, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and memories that will last a lifetime.
With careful planning, understanding the reservation system, prioritizing bear safety, and embracing Leave No Trace principles, your Glacier camping adventure will be nothing short of magical. So, pack your bags, prepare for the wild, and get ready to pitch your tent under the vast Montana sky. For more Glacier insights and travel inspiration, be sure to explore other posts on wanderwithkt.com! The mountains are calling, and you must go.