Camping near Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park features multiple established campgrounds throughout its vast Montana terrain, including popular options like Many Glacier, Fish Creek, Apgar, St. Mary, and Avalanche campgrounds. The area supports various accommodation types from tent-only sites to RV-friendly spots, with several campgrounds offering cabin or glamping alternatives such as West Glacier KOA Resort. Dispersed camping opportunities exist along areas like the Middle Fork Flathead River outside park boundaries. Most developed campgrounds within Glacier operate seasonally, typically from May through September or early October, with reservation requirements varying by location.

Campgrounds in Glacier National Park generally fill quickly during peak summer months. "This campground is only open during the summer and fall. It is beautiful. The hike is through a pretty forest with many large trees," notes one visitor about Avalanche Campground. Most campgrounds feature basic amenities including toilets, drinking water, and trash disposal, though shower facilities are limited to certain locations like Glacier Campground and West Glacier KOA. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountainous terrain, with potential fire bans during dry periods. Many campers recommend arriving early in the morning to secure first-come, first-served sites, especially at popular locations like Avalanche and Sprague Creek.

The camping experience in Glacier National Park offers remarkable access to scenic trails and natural features. Several campgrounds connect directly to notable hiking trails, with Avalanche Campground providing immediate access to the Avalanche Lake trail and Trail of Cedars. Visitors frequently mention the spectacular mountain views and old-growth forests surrounding camping areas. "Avalanche campground filled up before noon everyday we were there. Some days are worse than others, was during peak season though. This is a great spot. Large campsites, beautiful trees, next to the lake, creek, and several hikes," reports one camper. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the park, with proper food storage required at all camping locations. The park shuttle system stops at several campgrounds, allowing visitors to access various park destinations without moving their vehicles.

Best Camping Sites Near Glacier National Park (236)

    1. Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    47 Reviews
    Siyeh Bend, MT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 732-7740

    $90 / night

    "If you are able to get one it is well worth it because of the proximity to some of the greatest trails in Glacier National Park."

    "The most prestige area imaginal on the east side of Glacier National park. Wildlife galore from Grizzly bears to mountain goats and moose. Brenner trail head nearby."

    2. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    62 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $30 / night

    "Situated along the southwest side of Glacier National Park's Fish Creek Campground, I snagged two nights at site D173 - right on the lake! "

    "We camped at Fish Creek Campground during our visit to Glacier National Park - it was a good experience. The only comment we had is how tightly packed the campsites were."

    3. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $45 - $90 / night

    "A small campground opened seasonally at the south end of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park. The lImIted spaces are tucked in the trees bIt are a short walk to the beautiful lake."

    "This campground close to many areas such as the lake McDonald’s, the visitor center, and the village. I walked to those places after a long day of hiking and exploring glacier national park."

    4. St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    49 Reviews
    Babb, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 732-7708

    $40 / night

    "The campground is conveniently located on the edge of glacier national park. There are ranger talks in the campground every night."

    "It’s on the eastern side of Glacier National Park. The campground is open year round and is easily accessible."

    5. Avalanche Campground — Glacier National Park

    19 Reviews
    Siyeh Bend, MT
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $30 / night

    "Excellent location though with plenty of good beginner/easier hiking. If you haven't hike to Avalanche Lake, have you even been to Glacier National Park?!"

    "Beautiful, classic and extremely popular campground in the heart of Glacier National Park, right off the Going-to-the-Sun-Road. Beautiful picnic area on the creek. Good hikes within the camp area."

    6. Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    22 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $30 / night

    "Sprague Creek is a little campground on the west side of glacier national park. I really loved staying here because it is little. There are not many sites so show up early to get a spot."

    "Very pretty and popular campsite in Glacier National Park, just off the "Going-to-the-Sun" Road. It's on the shore of lake McDonald with gorgeous views of the lake and mountains."

    7. Glacier Campground

    51 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5689

    $45 - $120 / night

    "Montana is absolutely gorgeous! I may be biased because I go to college in Montana, but there is so many great outdoor activities. The mountains and scenery are my favorite."

    "So close to Glacier National Park that it’s almost inside. The staff was nice and the grounds are taken care of with pride. The bathrooms are Clean, clean,clean! And the price Rocks. Thank you!!"

    8. Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park

    24 Reviews
    Siyeh Bend, MT
    13 miles
    Website

    "You are pretty close to your neighbors, but if you are looking to explore the northern and southern parts of Glacier national park, this is a good spot to camp."

    "Fire pits, trees and nature around, yet very close by is a store, pay showers and a restaurant. Or just tent and do your own thing at your site."

    9. West Glacier KOA Resort

    50 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5341

    "Minutes away from Glacier National Park, this camp ground has it all. From cabins to RV sites to tent camping, there is something for everyone. We stayed in a tent."

    "Convenitly close to Glacier National Park. This KOA is in beautiful setting and has all the amenities of a hotel, but in the beauty of nature."

    10. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed

    49 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    22 miles
    Website

    "I stayed here for 3 mights while visiting the West Glacier section of Glacier National Park, and LOVED it! Met so many awesome people and had such a great time by the river."

    "It’s so close to the National Park entrance and a beautiful place to stay. The road is a bit bumpy getting down here but there’s plenty of room for tent camping and RVs. Be careful though!"

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Recent Reviews near Glacier National Park

1177 Reviews of 236 Glacier National Park Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Lid Creek Campground

    Quiet Campground

    Farther down the reservoir is this really nice campground. There are bear boxes and a good vault toilet. The road down the hill to the site was a little bumpy, but the campground road is good for all vehicles.

    No potable water or hook ups

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    Grizzly Country!

    Nice campground. Busy even as it started to get cold. The sites are practically right on top of each other so it’s important everyone around you is keeping it clean camp. There was grizzly Cat a few hundred feet away and it was big. They are there and not afraid of you.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Wayfarers Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    Good Location, Constant Noise

    Nice campground with space in between the tent only camping. You are right next to a bridge so you will hear boats and cars

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    West Glacier KOA Resort

    EXPENSIVE, but Kinda Worth It

    We loved this place and location. Cost makes it prohibitive as you could stay at a really nice hotel, but I’d stay there again. Food on location is convenient. It isn’t great, but after a long day of hiking nice. The grounds are beautiful. The big dog park is next level and our dogs wanted to play like kids at a playground. The landscape is the best I’ve ever seen. It’s just crazy pricey.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Cut Bank Campground — Glacier National Park

    Beautiful, but crowded

    Leaving going to the sun road headed east we camped at Cut Bank campground for two nights. Heading back into the campsite it seemed secluded until we got back there to see that half of the sites were taken and they were pretty close to one another. The campground is also at a trail head where many people go. The next morning we found ourselves waking up to people talking loudly and showing up to hike or take wedding photos. The view of the mountains were amazing.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Big rigs not recommended

    Pulled out Alliance Valor 32A10 down the horrible access road. Had to do a walk around after to verify no damage. Bed rails touched under my front cap a few times but luckily no damage.

    Best for overlanding vehicles. Beautiful location if you can get down the access road.

  • Kurt W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    West Glacier KOA Resort

    Late season stay

    We camped here for one night. Everything is super clean and well maintained. Beautiful spot

  • Giavanna P.
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast

    Adorable camping spot

    I absolutely loved this camping spot. Staff were friendly and the lovely couple at the cafe were super helpful for advice on where to check out. Having a hot shower after hiking was bliss. There’s even a communal fire at 7pm if you feel like being social

  • Raul C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Camp off North Fork Road

    Large and open

    The area down the road was full and had limited car camping / roof top tent camping so my buddy and I moved this way and found plenty of opportunity.


Guide to Glacier National Park

Camping near Glacier National Park, Montana, offers a fantastic way to experience the great outdoors. With stunning scenery and a variety of campgrounds, there's something for everyone, whether you're a tent camper or an RVer.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are countless trails to explore. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, like those near Many Glacier Campground, where one reviewer said, "Several really nice hikes start from here at the campground."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, the lakes around Bowman Lake Campground are perfect. A camper mentioned, "The river is very fast for fishing; could maybe get away with fly fishing."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for bears and other wildlife. One camper at Two Medicine Campground noted, "There was heavy black bear activity. No soft side camping allowed."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. A visitor at Fish Creek Campground said, "The scenery and experience of this special place cannot be properly described."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful environment. One reviewer at Glacier Campground appreciated the "good space between sites," making it feel less crowded.
  • Access to Water: Campgrounds like Apgar Campground provide easy access to Lake McDonald, which is a big hit among campers. A reviewer mentioned, "The access to Lake McDonald is the best part for sure."

What you should know:

  • Bear Country: Always be bear aware. A camper at St Mary Campground warned, "Grizzlies don't care, and that fire could start a wildfire!" Make sure to follow food storage rules.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Rising Sun Campground, have minimal facilities. One camper noted, "The restrooms were clean, but there are no showers."
  • Reservations Needed: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season. A visitor at Apgar Campground mentioned, "Unlike other National Park campgrounds, staying here still requires reservations for main park attractions."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One family at West Glacier KOA Resort enjoyed the "pool and the Gaga ball pit," making it perfect for their grandkids.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Two Medicine Campground suggested, "Watch the sunrise from the benches around the lake."
  • Pack for All Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Fish Creek Campground advised, "Be prepared for all types of weather; we saw it all during our 4 days."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Glacier Campground mentioned, "Some sites would not be great for tents because of how tight they are and the hills."
  • Plan for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Many Glacier Campground, do not offer electric hookups. One camper noted, "The sites are all these pull-through curves, and some are on these gnarly hills."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up quickly. A visitor at Rising Sun Campground advised, "Be ready to come early and wait in line to grab a campsite."

Camping near Glacier National Park, Montana, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and outdoor fun. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make camping reservations in Glacier National Park?

Reservations for most Glacier National Park campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance, which is highly recommended for popular campgrounds like Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park and Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park. Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early in the day is essential to secure a spot. For those unable to get park reservations, numerous alternatives exist nearby. The park's campgrounds typically open between late May and late June, depending on snow conditions, and close between early September and early October. Peak season reservations should be made as soon as the booking window opens, as sites often fill within minutes, especially for July and August dates.

Where can I find private RV parks near Glacier National Park?

Several excellent private RV parks are located near Glacier National Park. West Glacier KOA Resort is minutes from the park entrance and offers comprehensive amenities including RV sites, tent camping, cabins, restrooms, and an on-site restaurant. Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast provides a quiet setting among lodgepole pines with clean facilities and friendly staff, all close to the West entrance. Other options include Whispering Pines RV Park, which campers praise for its convenient location, and Sleeping Wolf Campground, which accommodates late arrivals. For those heading to the eastern side of the park, Chewing Blackbones Campground is just 10 minutes from the St. Mary entrance and is operated by the Blackfeet tribe.

What are the best campgrounds in Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park offers excellent camping options for all preferences. Within the park itself, Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park is a popular choice, offering limited spaces tucked among trees near beautiful Lake McDonald. For those seeking free dispersed camping near the park, Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping provides excellent access just 15 minutes from the West entrance. The area is perfect for rafting and fishing enthusiasts. Other excellent in-park options include Many Glacier Campground for its stunning mountain views and Fish Creek Campground for its proximity to Lake McDonald. For the best experience, book well in advance for summer visits, as the park's popularity means campgrounds fill quickly during peak season.