Big Creek Campground provides backcountry access to Glacier National Park through the lesser-known Flathead River entrance. The area sits at approximately 3,300 feet elevation with unpaved road access requiring careful driving, especially during spring runoff when conditions deteriorate. Tuchuck Campground offers more remote camping options for those seeking wilderness immersion, with single-track roads requiring high-clearance vehicles in several sections damaged by rock slides.
What to do
Hike to Quartz Lake: Access this trail from Quartz Creek Campground, which sits at the end of a challenging forest road. "There are about 8 sites here, several miles down the road from the Glacier ranger station. You are close to a couple of trailheads as well," notes Annie C. in her review.
Fish for cutthroat trout: Big Creek Campground offers access to both river and lake fishing. "Moose lake nearby is good for 6 to 8 inch cutthroat," reports Todd J. in his assessment of the area's fishing potential.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. "Deer were roaming the campsites all evening, very cool," shares Tara W. about her experience at Logging Creek Campground. The area requires bear awareness with proper food storage.
Paddling opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct water access. "I would recommend bug spray to anyone who is prone to mosquito bites. Especially when it's dusk and you are by the river! Overall an excellent campground and they do provide drinking water," advises Talia H. about Big Creek.
What campers like
Solitude and remoteness: Many campers appreciate the less crowded northern section of Glacier. "Spacious and private spots. Easy access to Glacier from the rare, unused Flathead river entrance. Close to North Fork area of park as well and great hiking in surrounding Flathead Forest outside of park," explains Dirty E. about Big Creek Campground.
Winter camping options: For adventurous campers seeking off-season glamping in Polebridge, Montana, some areas remain accessible. "Stayed here over the weekend, out of season, so not the normal facilities. It is in a great area and the features (and views) of the camp are equally great," shares Sterling C. about winter camping at Big Creek.
Night skies: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing with minimal light pollution. "Incredible night sky. Only other place I've seen so many stars/the Milky Way was Death Valley," reports Stephanie T. about her experience near Glacier Campground.
Hot showers after hiking: Several campgrounds offer shower facilities. "Showers were nice to have after we got grungy backpacking for a few days," notes Stephanie T. about Glacier Campground's amenities.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote campsites often requires careful driving. "The 2 miles of gravel over to Glacier Park hasn't improved any. Literally 5 mph was too fast. I hear there is 7 miles of the same stuff if you come via north fork road so I wouldn't do that," warns Phil P. about accessing Big Creek.
Bear safety protocols: All campgrounds in the area have strict bear safety requirements. "Didn't run into any bears myself, but a friend walked right up to one in the underbrush, thinking it was a moose and wanting to take a photo! Luckily the bear was just as startled as my friend and ran away," recounts Stephanie T. about Big Creek.
Seasonal facilities: Services vary dramatically by season at Polebridge glamping locations. "Only the Group Camping section was open at this time of year. No water. No trash. So pack it in, pack it out," explains David P. about an early October stay at Tuchuck Campground.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience significant rail traffic. "There are train tracks about 40 feet away from some of the campsites and trains come through almost all night long. If you are a light sleeper I wouldn't plan on getting much sleep," warns Evan H. about Whitefish Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly trails: While Glacier National Park prohibits dogs on trails, alternatives exist. "We got advice at both the campground and at the Geotourism Center about National Forest trails in the area that dogs ARE welcome to hike on," shares Janet R. about her experience at Glacier Campground.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer safe water access. "Close to Glacier, Polebridge is a must-see with colored stones in the clear cold water," mentions one camper about the appealing nature of creek beds for exploration.
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play structures. "There is a terrific indoor-outdoor cafe on site, and a central gathering area with playground and group picnic shelters," notes Janet R. about Glacier Campground's amenities for children.
Wildlife education: The area offers opportunities for children to learn about wildlife. "Visitors center nearby had some wonderful guided hikes, including a bird-watching one that I went on," explains Stephanie T. about educational programs available near Big Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RVers seeking luxury glamping near Polebridge, Montana, advance planning is essential. "We have a pull through site. Plenty of space for our towed Jeep to park. Beautiful trees and wild huckleberry bushes provided a peaceful setting and some privacy," notes Angela M. about Sundance Campground.
Hookup availability: "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. about the facilities at Glacier Campground.
Extension cords needed: "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. about a practical consideration for RV camping.
Internet access: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Wifi is iffy unless you are close to the office. AT&T was decent for 4G only," notes Nancy C. about conditions at Sundance Campground.
