Tent camping near Polebridge, Montana offers opportunities in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park at elevations ranging from 3,600 to 4,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in July. Winter access becomes extremely limited with heavy snowfall accumulations of 5+ feet common in this region.
What to do
Fishing at lakes and streams: Kintla Lake Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with quick success rates. One visitor reported, "We fished here and within 30 seconds of dropping my line I caught my first lake trout! Can't beat that!"
Kayaking on calm waters: Kintla Lake Campground prohibits motorized boats, creating ideal paddling conditions. A camper noted, "This part of the lake also does not allow motorized boats so kayaking and canoeing is very pleasant."
Stargazing at remote locations: The northwestern campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. At Bowman Lake Campground, one visitor shared, "I couldn't sleep any more so I got up at 4:30, made coffee, and walked down to the lake about 5 am. It was like a painting."
Swimming in glacier-fed lakes: Despite cold water temperatures, many campgrounds offer swimming access. A Kintla Lake visitor mentioned, "You are camping right along Kintla Lake where many kayak, swim, etc."
Early morning wildlife viewing: Dawn provides opportunities to see deer and other animals near campsites. A visitor at Bowman Lake Campground observed, "Deer frequent the campsites, sniffing around the fire pits, searching for food, and they're not scared of people. They'll come right up to your tent."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Blankenship Bridge offers free camping directly along the water. A camper reported, "Right on a clear river, came in on Tuesday at 6pm. Still river spots available. Dog friendly and safe."
Remote wilderness feel: The significant distance from developed areas creates true solitude. One camper at Kintla Lake described it as "a beautiful (and bumpy) dirt road close to Canada. It sits right at Kintla Lake. I ended up snagging a campsite right by the lake, making for a great morning view."
Lack of RV traffic: Many campgrounds have access limitations that prevent large vehicles. A visitor noted about Quartz Lake Wilderness Campsite, "I spent one night here with my sister and friend and we had the whole place to ourselves. There are 3 campsites that are all close together on the beach at the foot of the lake."
Clean facilities despite remoteness: Despite primitive conditions, the campgrounds maintain sanitation standards. A camper at Bowman Lake observed, "Restroom facilities are only pit toilets, but they're the cleanest and least-smelly pit toilets I've ever seen, and there is plenty of hand sanitizer inside."
Convenience to Polebridge Mercantile: The historic store provides essential supplies and food for campers. A visitor mentioned, "There was a ranger hanging out in the parking lot of the trail head area if you have any questions. You can pay for a shower down at Polebridge Market Place, which you want to visitor anyway for their amazing baked goods."
What you should know
Road conditions can be hazardous: Access roads require careful driving and appropriate vehicles. A camper at Ryan Road Dispersed Camping advised, "The road is only a couple miles long and not too rough but there is a private gated drive at the end. There is a spot to turn around at the last campsite."
Seasonal closures and limitations: Many campgrounds close during winter months or have restricted access. A visitor to Moose Lake noted, "Snow was over the road still but not too deep," indicating late spring access challenges.
Bear safety requirements: The area has active bear populations requiring proper precautions. A camper at Quartz Lake observed, "Just up the hill is a vault toilet (bring your own toilet paper!) and further along the lake is the food preparation area with a pole setup to hang your food."
Extreme bug pressure: Mosquitoes can be particularly intense during summer months. A Bowman Lake visitor warned, "I experienced more mosquito bites here than at any other spot in Montana. Bring your repellant!"
Weather unpredictability: Temperatures can change dramatically in short periods. A camper advised, "You'll be a high elevation so be ready for cooler nights. I used my 0-degree sleeping bag, and that worked great."
Tips for camping with families
Easy hiking options: For families with children, some trails offer manageable distances with significant rewards. A visitor to Bowman Lake shared, "My friends and I also really loved hiking along the trails that were near the lake. There was actually a trail that took us along the lake shore which was one of my favorite walks we did."
Campfire management: Restrictions vary by season and campground policies. At Blankenship Bridge, many sites include fire rings for evening gatherings. A visitor noted, "There are plentiful sites, some with fire rings, many spots for car or van campers to park near the beautiful river."
Wildlife education opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe animals safely. One Bowman Lake camper advised, "We didn't see any bears, but deer frequent the campsites, sniffing around the fire pits, searching for food."
Water safety considerations: Lakes in the region remain cold year-round, requiring supervision for children. A visitor at Kintla Lake mentioned, "This lake is good for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking etc."
Best family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds offer more child-appropriate amenities and safer conditions. A Bowman Lake visitor noted, "Sites 4 and 5 are the best as they are right on the creek with water access."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size restrictions: Many access roads cannot accommodate large RVs. A visitor to Ryan Road noted, "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There's a slightly rough dirt road to get to the camp spots. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV."
Limited turnaround space: Some roads end without adequate space for larger vehicles to maneuver. One camper observed about Kintla Lake, "This has to be one of my all time favorite campgrounds. Very primitive camping at the end of a very bumpy dirt road about 40 miles in. There are only 13 sites and given the arduous drive, RVs are seldom seen here."
Ground clearance requirements: Low-clearance RVs risk damage on rough access roads. A visitor to Blankenship Bridge warned, "Deep rutted muddy holes filled with water to get to site. Sketchy low trees and narrow road. Decided not to risk it in my van."
Campsite terrain challenges: Many sites have uneven surfaces unsuitable for larger rigs. About Bowman Lake, a visitor cautioned, "The campsites are clean and level, but watch out for stumps along the driveways, or you may lose a bumper."
