Glacier National Park offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its 13 drive-in campgrounds, accommodating over 1,000 sites. From lakeside retreats to remote wilderness spots, the park caters to tent campers and RV enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide explores the various camping options, amenities, reservation processes, and accessibility features to help you plan your perfect Glacier National Park camping adventure.
What Are the Camping Options in Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park boasts 13 drive-in campgrounds, each offering unique experiences and amenities. Here’s a detailed overview of the camping sites:
- Apgar Campground
- Location: Southern edge of Lake McDonald, near West Glacier entrance
- Capacity: 194 sites (2 wheelchair accessible)
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Types: Tent and RV (up to 40 feet)
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Fish Creek Campground
- Location: West side of Glacier, near Apgar Village
- Capacity: 178 sites (7 wheelchair accessible)
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Types: Tent and RV (up to 35 feet)
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Many Glacier Campground
- Location: East side of the park, near Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Capacity: 109 sites (13 RV sites up to 35 feet)
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Types: Tent and RV
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St. Mary Campground
- Location: East side of the park, near St. Mary entrance
- Capacity: 148 sites (2 wheelchair accessible)
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Types: Tent and RV (up to 40 feet)
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Sprague Creek Campground
- Location: West side of the park, near Lake McDonald
- Capacity: 25 sites
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Types: Tent only (max vehicle length 21 feet)
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Avalanche Campground
- Location: West side of the Continental Divide
- Capacity: 87 sites (1 wheelchair accessible)
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Types: Tent and RV (up to 26 feet)
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Two Medicine Campground
- Location: East side of the park
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Types: Tent and RV (up to 35 feet)
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Bowman Lake Campground
- Location: North Fork area, near Polebridge
- Capacity: 48 sites (2 wheelchair accessible)
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Types: Tent (RVs not recommended)
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Cut Bank Campground
- Location: East side of the park, 5-mile dirt road access
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Types: Tent (RVs not recommended)
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Kintla Lake Campground
- Location: Northernmost part of the park, near Canadian border
- Capacity: 13 sites
- Types: Tent (RVs not recommended)
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Logging Creek Campground
- Location: West side of the park, via Inside North Fork Road
- Capacity: 7 primitive sites
- Types: Tent only (RVs not allowed)
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Quartz Creek Campground
- Location: North Fork area
- Types: Tent (RVs not recommended)
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Rising Sun Campground
- Location: East side of the park, near St. Mary Lake
- Types: Tent and RV (up to 25 feet)
What Amenities Are Available at Glacier National Park Campgrounds?
Amenities vary across campgrounds, but generally include:
- Restroom facilities (flush toilets or vault toilets)
- Water sources (potable water at most sites)
- Fire pits and picnic tables
- Some campgrounds offer unique features like ranger programs, nearby stores, or shower facilities
Here’s a breakdown of amenities for select campgrounds:
| Campground | Restrooms | Water | Fire Pits | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apgar | Flush toilets | Potable | Yes | Near Apgar Village, camp store |
| Fish Creek | Flush toilets | Potable | Yes | Lake views, ranger programs |
| Many Glacier | Flush toilets | Potable | Yes | Showers under construction |
| St. Mary | Flush toilets | Potable | Yes | Open year-round, showers |
| Bowman Lake | Vault toilets | Hand pump | Yes | Remote location, water activities |
| Kintla Lake | Vault toilets | Hand pump | Yes | Most secluded campground |
How Do I Make Reservations for Glacier National Park Campgrounds?
Reservations for most Glacier National Park campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov. Here are key points to remember:
- Fees: Peak season (mid-May to mid-September) rates are typically $30 per night. Off-peak rates vary, with some sites as low as $20 or free in winter.
- Peak Booking Times: Reservations are highly recommended, especially from June to August. Book well in advance as sites fill quickly.
- Cancellation Policies: Fees may apply for cancellations. Check specific policies on Recreation.gov.
- Specific Requirements:
- Campsite capacity: 8 people and 2 vehicles maximum
- Tent limit: 2 per site
- Cell service is unreliable; make reservations before arrival
- Some campgrounds have RV and trailer length restrictions
What Accessibility Features Are Available for Campers?
Accessibility varies across Glacier National Park campgrounds:
- Trail Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Bowman Lake and Kintla Lake, have rough access roads that may be challenging for larger vehicles.
- Parking: Available at all campgrounds, but space can be limited at popular sites like Apgar and Fish Creek.
- Transport Options:
- Free shuttle services along Going-to-the-Sun Road and to trailheads
- Amtrak’s Empire Builder train stops at West Glacier and seasonally at East Glacier
- Shuttle services available from train depots to park lodges
What Are the Best Campgrounds for Different Types of Campers?
- For RV Campers: Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary campgrounds accommodate larger RVs up to 40 feet.
- For Tent Campers: All campgrounds welcome tent camping, but Sprague Creek and Logging Creek are tent-only.
- For Accessibility: Apgar, Fish Creek, and Many Glacier offer wheelchair-accessible sites.
- For Solitude: Kintla Lake and Logging Creek campgrounds offer more remote experiences.
- For Amenities: Apgar and Fish Creek are near villages with stores and restaurants.
What Are the Must-Know Tips for Camping in Glacier National Park?
- Bear Safety: Store food in bear-proof containers or lockers provided at campgrounds.
- Weather Preparedness: Pack for varying conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Reservation Timing: Book campsites as early as possible, especially for peak season visits.
- Leave No Trace: Follow park guidelines to minimize your impact on the environment.
- Campfire Regulations: Check current fire restrictions before planning campfires.
- Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and use binoculars for viewing.
By understanding the carte campings Glacier National Park offers, you can choose the perfect site for your adventure. Whether you prefer a bustling campground with amenities or a secluded spot in the wilderness, Glacier National Park has a camping experience to suit every outdoor enthusiast.