Equestrian camping options near Glacier National Park remain limited, though some facilities may accommodate horses with appropriate planning. For travelers with horses, calling ahead to specific campgrounds is essential as most standard campgrounds lack dedicated equestrian infrastructure. The park sits at elevations ranging from 3,200 to over 10,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions throughout the region. Weather can shift rapidly in this mountainous terrain, with summer temperatures averaging 60-70°F during the day and dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Kayaking at Bowman Lake: Located in the remote northwest section of the park, Bowman Lake Campground offers excellent water recreation opportunities. "I got up one morning earlier than everyone else, and took the kayak on the water. The sunset was beautiful, and the lake was so calm and relaxing," reports Kayla K.
Explore Polebridge area: The small outpost near Bowman Lake provides unique provisions. "No showers here but you can pay for a shower down at Polebridge Market Place, which you want to visit anyway for their amazing baked goods (pizza after 3 pm too!)," mentions Annie C.
Thursday rodeos: During summer months, check out local rodeo events. The Mountain View RV Park provides convenient access to weekly entertainment. "Close to the grocery(Super 1 Foods) and 2 miles from the rodeo grounds and Blue Moon Nite Club where they have a weekly Thursday Rodeo in the summer. It was fun!" writes Julia M.
What campers like
Privacy in tent areas: Some campgrounds offer separated tent camping sections. "Johnson's Campground is a well loved for family owned campground. We stayed in the tent camping area and felt like it gave great privacy vs. the typical rows of RVs," notes UnnamedAdventures.
Authentic Indigenous hospitality: Several campgrounds on tribal lands provide cultural connections. "Compared to campgrounds in the national park, the price is reasonable. Plus, the fees benefit the indigenous community who owns the land," mentions Julia B. about Chewing Blackbones Campground.
River access: For those seeking water activities outside the national park, Glacier Rim River Access offers swimming opportunities. "The river is beautiful and has a little beach for swimming. My campsite had a good amount of shade and could fit a big rig easily," shares Tee C.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some campground access roads require careful driving. "Be prepared for a dusty, bumpy, narrow, pot-holed drive in on the road. There's a sign at the beginning of the incline that indicates parking availability... pay attention to the sign, it will tell you if no parking is available," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Bowman Lake.
Facility quality differences: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Clean facilities, friendly staff, close to the West entrance of the park," reports Chad W. about Glacier Campground.
Reservation essentials: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Red Eagle Campground is right outside the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park... When we stayed there, all the campgrounds in the park were overflowing and there were long lines at 6:30 am for first-come sites, but this campground was basically empty," notes Anthony D.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family-friendly activities, select campgrounds with additional facilities. "There is a pavilion with gas grills and playground. They do rent Jeeps," shares Nancy C. about Timber Wolf Resort.
Consider wildlife exposure: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region. "We had plenty of shade (there are a lot of trees). Warning: I experienced more mosquito bites here than at any other spot in Montana. Bring your repellant!" cautions Stephanie T.
Plan for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night temperature changes. "You'll be at high elevation so be ready for cooler nights. I used my 0-degree sleeping bag, and that worked great," recommends GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Tips from RVers
Water and hookup availability: RV sites offer varying levels of service. "All the camp sites have Electric, and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. There is a dump station, and propane fill up on site. It's $25 to dump," explains Marcus K.
Campsite spacing: Site size and arrangement differs between facilities. "Sites are TIGHT! Can't even open canopy without hitting next door unit," warns Chris Y. about Johnson's Campground, while another reviewer notes "The sites are not on the same level as your neighbors, but are close."
Extension cords recommended: Some electrical hookups may require additional equipment. "Make sure you bring an extension cord to hook up your electric just in case you have a short standard cord on your camper," advises Marcus K.
