Best Camping near Glacier National Park

Surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains in Montana, Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails and plenty of campsites for weary hikers to spend the night. Near the picturesque cities of Columbia Falls and Whitefish, MT, campers can enjoy a day of shopping or dine at one of the area’s restaurants in between taking in the park’s sights. Avalanche Creek and Granite Park are two popular campgrounds, and RV drivers will find plenty of places to pull up for a night or extended stay. While camping, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to see the area’s diverse wildlife that include grizzly bears, mountain goats, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Glacier National Park, MT (219)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    1. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    210 Photos
    486 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Fish Creek Campground is the second largest campground in Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana, is comprised of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles (1,125 km) of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in its natural beauty. The campground is located on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1,066 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 F (32 C), although it is frequently 10 to 15 F cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer; visitors should come prepared for anything.

    Recreation

    This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

    Natural Features

    Fish Creek is heavily forested with plenty of 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

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    2. Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    47 Reviews
    193 Photos
    729 Saves
    Siyeh Bend, Montana

    Overview

    The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not available in the campground. However, limited coverage is available in Babb.

    Recreation

    Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of the Continental Divide, and has excellent trails available for day hiking and overnight backpacking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side of the park, resulting in a shorter ascent to reach scenic vistas. Trails traverse areas frequented by grizzly and black bears, so take these safety precautions -- hike in groups, make lots of noise to avoid surprise encounters and carry bear pepper spray (know how to use it).

    Natural Features

    Many Glacier Campground is situated in a mature Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and quaking aspen forest. Vegetation is dense and provides partial shade for almost all campsites. Occasional strong wind gusts occur, however, with tree cover, most sites have some protection from the weather. Nearby natural features include Swiftcurrent Creek and Lake, and mountain views of Altyn, Henkel, Wilber, Grinnell Point, Allen and Wynn.

    Nearby Attractions

    If you have the time and a current passport, be sure to visit Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Waterton Lakes National Park is a sister park to Glacier and both are known collectively as "Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park" -- the first international peace park in the world and designated in 1932. Waterton Lakes National Park offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several short drives to view wildlife and access numerous hiking trails. Waterton Lakes National Park is located approximately 45 miles north of the town of Babb, Montana. Take Montana highway # 89 north to the intersection of Highway#17 or the Chief Mountain International Peace Park Highway. Continue north to the Chief Mountain international border crossing, where the road number changes to highway #6 and then highway # 5 into Waterton Lakes National Park.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 888-7800.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    3. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    55 Reviews
    186 Photos
    500 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Apgar Campground is situated on the southern tip of Lake McDonald in beautiful Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana. Pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes are found throughout the park. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for hikers seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in the natural beauty of the park.

    Recreation

    Lake McDonald provides great opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing and fishing in its cold mountain waters. A variety of fish are found in the lake, including cutthroat, rainbow, bull and lake trout, whitefish and Kokanee salmon.The campground is conveniently close to many trailheads for day hikes, including Apgar Lookout Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail leading up to a fire lookout with breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. The Apgar Bike Path, a paved 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail popular for walking and biking, leads to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center and Village. Horseback ride reservations, boat rentals, shuttle service and Red Bus Tour reservations are available here.One of the most amazing highlights of Glacier National Park is a drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which travels past the campground. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles (80 km) through the park's wild interior, winding around mountainsides and treating visitors to some of the best sights in northwest Montana.

    Natural Features

    Apgar is located in a dense forest on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1067 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 degrees, although it is frequently 10 to 15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer. Visitors should come prepared for anything.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, Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground

    4. Glacier Campground

    49 Reviews
    138 Photos
    426 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Glacier Campground is located just one mile from the west entrance of Glacier National Park and is the closest privately owned campground to the park, known for “the way camping used to be!” Our heavily wooded 40 acre campground is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest. West Glacier Village provides many activities including golf, mini golf, shopping, rafting, horseback rides and helicopter tours. There are also many options for great local dining. Outdoor lovers will love staying at with us

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort

    5. West Glacier KOA Resort

    46 Reviews
    96 Photos
    216 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Pine-scented campsites here are a mere 2.5 miles from Glacier National Park's west entrance. A short drive of a few minutes brings you to the start of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road that twists and climbs across the million-acre alpine preserve. Whitefish, Kalispell, and Flathead lake are within driving distance to explore for part of a day with plenty of time left to relax at this KOA. This KOA also offers a heated adult (18+) pool 2 adult (18+) hot tubs and a heated family (all ages) pool. Enjoy our Lazy Bear Breakfast or Dinner restaurants, as well as our Bearstream Bar and Bear Garden. You can treat yourself to huckleberry ice cream at Scoops Ice Cream Shop or head to the state's largest water park in nearby Columbia Falls.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

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

    39 Reviews
    126 Photos
    71 Saves
    Babb, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. The St. Mary Campground is reservation only during the peak season. For information on camping outside the reservation timeframe visit the Glacier NPS website . St. Mary Campground is the largest campground on the east side of Glacier National Park, and is conveniently located approximately a half-mile from the St. Mary Visitor Center. The visitor center offers interpretive programs, shuttle service and Red Bus tours leaving from the center. The campground sits near the entrance of the popular scenic byway, the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A.

    Recreation

    St. Mary Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Natural Features

    Though shade is sparse, the aspen trees that grace St. Mary Campground flutter in spring and summer breezes and provide colorful splashes of yellow late in the season. Views of Singleshot, East Flattop and Red Eagle Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. St. Mary Lake which, although too cold and occasionally too rough to swim in, provides refreshing scenery on warm days.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is the sister park across the U.S.-Canadian border, Waterton Lakes National Park. As the other half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the Townsite of Waterton. Immediately east of Glacier National Park lies the picturesque Blackfeet Indian Reservation, spanning 1.5 million acres. Visit the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, Montana, for a fascinating introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the largest Indian tribe in Montana.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park

    7. Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park

    31 Reviews
    143 Photos
    510 Saves
    Polebridge, Montana

    Bowman Lake campground is located in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park approximately 32.5 miles from the west entrance and 30 miles from the Canadian border. The drive to Bowman Lake is a very slow, dusty, and bumpy ride on dirt roads. Trailers are not permitted. The campground is located close to the shore of Bowman Lake and camp sites are within trees for shade and some privacy. Tent campers looking for peace and quiet will enjoy Bowman Lake for its serenity and remote location.

    Weather Dependent Primitive Fall Season

    October 9–October 31

    Bowman Lake Campground's typical summer season is from mid-May to early September. If weather permits, a primitive camping season can extend into the fall between early September and late October.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $10 - $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park

    9. Rising Sun Campground — Glacier National Park

    23 Reviews
    53 Photos
    367 Saves
    Siyeh Bend, Montana

    Rising Sun Campground is located just west of St. Mary and halfway along St. Mary Lake. Campers at Rising Sun will enjoy beautiful sunrises in the morning with Red Eagle Mountain as a backdrop, and the campground serves as a convenient base camp to many day hikes located east of Logan Pass. Some sites are open, allowing for cool breezes throughout the day, while others are located among trees, accommodating those seeking some shade and privacy.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Market
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    10. Sprague Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    20 Reviews
    50 Photos
    317 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Sprague Creek is a small campground located on the northeast shore of Lake McDonald, just off Going-to-the-Sun Road. The maximum size limit allowed for all vehicles as well as combinations of vehicles and towed units in Sprague Creek Campground is 21 feet in length (including bumpers) and/or 8 feet in width (including mirrors). The campground is located within trees, providing shade during warm summers. Some sites near the shore have unobstructed views of Lake McDonald.

    Recreation

    Amenities such as a camp store, resturant, gift shop, tour buses, boat tours, and horse rides can be found at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, about a mile away from the campground. Evening programs with a ranger are also located at Lake McDonald Lodge. Use Glacier's free shuttle service at this campground to access other shuttle stops on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

    Natural Features

    Sprague Creek 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, Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 219 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Glacier National Park

Recent Reviews in Glacier National Park

1080 Reviews of 219 Glacier National Park Campgrounds


  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort

    Clean, convenient stop

    We picked this park for convenience while having travel trailer brake issues. Came at close of season, and thankful for a later evening check in. A little disconnect to obtain a bathroom Code. Fortunately we saw camp hosts walking dogs to gain access. Dog friendly, including nice gated area for off leash.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Great stay close to West entrance Glacer NP

    I really enjoyed this boondocking site. They have great tent options right beside the river but not too close for flooding. Also they have a hard structured bathroom which was nice. Would stay here again. Also the road was bumpy but I managed it with my Honda Accord.

  • Sarah M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Huge pot holes and water puddles + crowded

    You can only park on the one side of the river and it’s very crowded. Additionally the road going down to the camping area has huge pot holes and and water so you need high clearance to get down there.

  • Ben H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Easy and convenient

    Only about 15 minutes away from Glacier National Park Westgate. I was able to stay here for multiple days. Each time was no trouble in finding a place to park. This area is popular for rafting and fishing. The surrounding area is also beautiful. There are outdoor restrooms located nearby. The camping limit for this area is 3 days. I was able to have good Verizon signal. Overall a great spot to camp.

  • Emmett S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Lake
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Bull Lake

    Quiet and secluded

    Less than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around. A large parking area, could accommodate a travel trailer or two in addition to a couple tent sites with fire rings. One picnic table with a fire pit and rock fire rings at the tent sites. There are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access to the lake.

  • Emmett S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stillwater River
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Stillwater River

    Beautiful Riverside Rustic

    Just about a mile from the highway, this site is right on the river with some nice deep pools. There are three separate fire rings with a vault toilet and picnic table. It's a short drive in but more suitable for truck camping, van, tent camping or very small trailer like 13' max due to narrow track and limited maneuvering area. High clearance required!

  • hannah W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Glacier Rim River Access 10363

    Stopped here but didn’t end up staying the night

    Could’ve been a really cool camping spot but after setting up camp a couple came yelling right by my van. They were part of the homeless camp and I just didn’t feel super comfortable because they were saying really aggressive things.

  • Micheal S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    Probably one of the campgrounds I would ha e no trouble going back to. Try clean, quiet, and tucked a way i etween two mountains where spotting wildlife on the slopes in the evening and mornings is a favorite pass time.

    The road into Many Glacier campground is a challenge but well worth the agonizing ride in. There is nice spacing between the sites. There are no hookups and there are generator hours that people have no trouble complying with. The hosts are very nice and are willing to help in any way possible. They do a mandatory bear awaretalk for new arrivals. The campsites are predominantly shaded so solar really doesn't work well there. The restrooms are clean and there are utility sinks for emptying gray water waste if you are a tenter. The water and dump station are just out side the entrance between. There is a ranger station just past the dump station. Located on the north side of the campground is a store, lodge, restaurant, laundry, and shower. The laundry is coin operated.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Mid week stay

    At first it looked crowded but we managed two vans side by side right in the river. Everyone was respectful of each other. Fire rings available. We heard that it can be very loud and crowded on the weekends with groups/parties

  • Kaitlin K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Sep. 5, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Good for the night

    This campsite was very accommodating for our rig (40ft long x 13.5ft tall) and the road in wasn’t too bad either. Plenty of space for lots of rigs and turning around.

    Pros:

    • the reservoir access and sun set views were really neat!

    Cons:

    • there were a few shady characters about with some weird tent set-ups (lawn mowers, abandoned bikes, and tarps) so we didn’t feel entirely safe leaving our stuff alone for a day trip.
  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 3 Bears Campground and RV Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    3 Bears Campground and RV Park

    Lots of Noise, Lots of Rowdy Kids

    Needed just a fast stop for the night, in a TT, after getting repairs.

    Lots of noise, loud music, loud motors, cars in and out that obviously didn’t stay there off of the back of camp, and just loud racket until late at night.

    Just a basic setup, but good shade. Connections were appropriate, pull in sites accommodated a standard pickup and 29 ft TT.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Aug. 24, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Dispersed site

    Drove in on a Wednesday and found a site right on the water. A number of spots were occupied with campers/tents with no one there. Really peaceful spot in my experience and an unbeatable view. Rented SUPs from in town to enjoy on the reservoir.

    Pit toilet, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area.

  • Josh S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Quiet solitude near West Glacier

    Got here on a Monday at about 1pm.

    There were about 3-4 sites available, 2 of which could fit a camper. We grabbed one. It could fit a 20-25' camper with vehicle at most.

    The place emptied out pretty well mid week (peak season).

    Pros:

    Many sites Some flat/level sites Some very big sites (2-3 could probably fit a larger 30'+ rig) Very quiet 15 min to west glacier entrance gate Clean Full 5 bar Tmobile

    Cons:

    Not much for turn around space, especially for a larger rig. If sites at end of road are packed you may be up a creek. Weekends it's packed. Still quiet, just nit much availability. No water. The spigot that used to be available outside the park gates are no longer available. Closest water is inside the park at the picnic areas.

    We stayed 6 nights and it was great. Very quiet, and an easy 25 minute drive to Columbia falls for grocery. 15-20 to hungry horse for gas.

  • Elizabeth F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Nice stay near West Glacier

    This was a nice site for the night. I came around 6pm and all 4 sites were full so we just car camped in one of the parking spots. The four spots look really nice, but they most likely fill up quick, as we came on a Monday night. It’s a very beautiful place to camp and the bathroom is a perk! I definitely recommend if wanting a free place to camp outside of the West Glacier entrance!

  • IThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed

    Tribal land - no camping allowed

    DO NOT CAMP HERE. Got a citation even though there are roads leading here with no signs while others have signs stating camping is prohibited.

  • Charles  H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Chewing Blackbones Campground
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Chewing Blackbones Campground

    TNC: totally nasty camping!

    We checked in and found our site half underwater due to deluge night before. Drove around CG before going back to office and noticed ours was only site like this. "Josie" at front desk supposedly had no other FHU sites, only electric only, so we went back to ours site to figure out how to deal with. Trailer next ours decided to plug into our 1 and only outlet ( a 30 amp) with his 50 amp step down adapter. Called Josie who said this is the 2nd time today people have done this who DID not pay for electric and to unplug the people who weren't around. We did and plugged in, hooked up water, ran swere line, all while standing in 6-8 inches of disgusting water. Found out water pressure was ridiculously low ( 6-8 lbs) and bathrooms had no tp!!!! Lawn also doesn't seem to EVER be mowed. This place needs to step up there game!!!! Drop them God Sam!!!!!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Super close to the West Entrance Glacier NP

    Many little sites, some with stone rings for fire, some without. Road is easily doable without 4WD. But has some potholes. You will sleep surrounded by forest in nature and close to the west entrance of the glacier National Park.

  • zack B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed

    Overlooking st. Mary lake and east glacier.

    Absolutly beautiful view of st. Mary lake and glacier park east. Another lake in the background im not sure of right now. Just a dirt road off the highway that nobody comes to and is good to park an rv for the night and let the dogs run around. Anti people camping!!

  • Laura D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Honey's Place RV Spot
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Honey's Place RV Spot

    Beautiful view

    The view was unbelievably beautiful, our dog had lots of room to run and other dogs to play with. The site was comfortable and the Hosts were so very KIND!



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

  • What camping is available near Glacier National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Glacier National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 219 campgrounds and RV parks near Glacier National Park and 32 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Glacier National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Glacier National Park is Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 59 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Glacier National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 free dispersed camping spots near Glacier National Park.

  • What parks are near Glacier National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Glacier National Park that allow camping, notably Flathead National Forest and Kootenai National Forest.