Apgar Group Sites, near West Glacier, Montana, is a fantastic spot for those looking to camp in the heart of Glacier National Park. This campground is perfect for groups, allowing friends and family to set up camp together without the hassle of scattered sites.
The setting is simply stunning, with wooded areas providing shade and a rustic vibe that many visitors love. You’re just a short walk from Lake McDonald, which offers breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. As one camper put it, “What’s better than camping in a National Park? Camping with friends/family in a National Park!”
Facilities here are basic but modern enough to keep things comfortable. There’s drinking water available, and you can enjoy campfires under the stars, which adds to the whole experience. Just remember, reservations can be tricky to snag due to the campground's popularity, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.
For those who enjoy exploring, the nearby ranger programs and trails cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the scenery, Apgar Group Sites has a lot to offer. It’s a memorable place that keeps campers coming back for more.
Description
Overview
Apgar campground is the largest campground in the park. It is situated in trees and provides tent and RV campers with shade and some privacy. Evening sunsets on Lake McDonald are only a short stroll, and you won't want to miss evening programs with a ranger at the Apgar Amphitheater. Many trails are located within a short drive of the campground. Five Group Sites are reservable in advance.All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window.Hiker/Bicyclist sites A10, C144, and C146 are available through the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay system. In order to use these sites, visitors must download the Recreation.gov Application before arriving. At the Hiker/Bicyclist sites, simply scan the QR code posted onsite to follow prompts and complete payment. Additional instructions are provided onsite in Apgar Campground.
Recreation
This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.
Facilities
The campground is large with 194 campsites. The sites are relatively spread apart and provide privacy for both RV and tent campers. Potable water is accessible in the campground, and restroom facilities have flush toilets and sinks with running water.
Natural Features
Apgar is heavily forested with partial shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles.
Nearby Attractions
One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton. Waterton Lakes National Park
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsApgar Group Sites is located in Montana near West Glacier
Directions
Apgar Campground has multiple entry points on the east and west side of the park. West Side\_\_Entrance West Entrance From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of West Glacier (approximately 33 miles (53 km) from Kalispell). West Entrance From Browning, take Highway 2 west to the town of West Glacier. East Side\_\_Entrance St. Mary Entrance From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of Browning (approx. 83 miles/134 km). At the traffic circle, exit onto Hwy 89 north and continue for another 30 miles (48 km). Follow the signage to the St. Mary Visitor Center / Going-to-the-Sun Road. St. Mary Entrance From Browning, take Highway 89 north to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Coordinates
48.525002 N
113.983597 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 72 usersLast on 5/13/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 112 usersLast on 5/13/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 5/13/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 72 usersLast on 5/13/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 112 usersLast on 5/13/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 5/13/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 25 min from Missoula, MT
- 2 hrs 54 min from Great Falls, MT
- 3 hrs 30 min from Helena, MT
- 3 hrs 55 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
