Camping options surrounding West Glacier, Montana include both rustic tent sites and structured RV parks within a 25-mile radius of the park entrance. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 45-50°F at night, with occasional thunderstorms and limited cell service across most campgrounds. Many camping facilities outside the national park remain open from mid-May through late September, with peak season rates in July and August.
What to do
Hike nearby trails outside the park: Big Creek Campground offers access to trails in the Flathead National Forest when Glacier is crowded. "Great hiking in surrounding Flathead Forest outside of park. Extremely clean campground, pit toilets," reports Dirty E.
Mountain biking on local paths: Areas near West Glacier feature designated bike trails that provide alternatives to park restrictions. "Rented a ebike from Moose Creek at super reasonable rates," notes Marc M. from Moose Creek RV Resort.
Whitewater rafting excursions: Many campgrounds can arrange guided rafting trips on the Flathead River. At Glacier Campground, staff can "shuttle you over to view the high quality environmental and geography education exhibits on display, to sample local foods and crafts, or to sign up for outdoor adventures like horseback riding, fly fishing, llama trekking."
Evening entertainment: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities after day trips. "Live music available each night in a very open inviting area that looks out at the mountains is pretty amazing," says Andrew at West Glacier KOA Resort.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Timber Wolf Resort arranges sites on different terrain levels. "The sites are not on the same level as your neighbors, but are close. There is a pavilion with gas grills and playground," notes Nancy C.
Natural berry picking: Several campgrounds have edible berries on property during summer months. "He has juneberries on property and let me pick them. They were everywhere. Got a couple of good breakfast smoothies," shares Kristi D. about Sundance Campground.
Comfortable glamping structures: Yurts and cabins offer elevated comfort for those who want more than tent camping. "Stayed in a yurt for a week. Loved the vibe of the campground. Free coffee was a life safer for early rising to get into the park at 6am," writes Katie C. about North American RV Park & Yurt Village.
Riverside locations: Several campgrounds feature water access. "The six group sites are right next to the river and that sound is very pleasant. Huge picnic tables and large fire pit with three built in cooking grates," describes David P. about Big Creek Campground.
What you should know
Train noise affects some sites: Several campgrounds near West Glacier have nearby train tracks. "Closer to the front you don't hear it as much, but the trade off is the hwy noise. Neither bothered us enough to not stay," explains Nancy C. about Sundance Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking in peak season. "Reserve WAY ahead!" advises Shelly S. about West Glacier KOA Resort.
Wildlife precautions: The area has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Remember to keep your food in bear containers," says Stephanie T. about Big Creek Campground, adding that her friend "walked right up to one in the underbrush, thinking it was a moose and wanting to take a photo!"
Shoulder season benefits: Visiting in May or September offers lower rates and fewer crowds. "Beginning off season, pull through site with water and electric. Uncrowded, convenient, but close to highway so a bit noisy," notes David O. from Moose Creek RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Rocky Mountain Hi Campground offers recreational water features for children. "The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek, volleyball net and paved roads to scooter and roller blade," Jennifer H. shares.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Glacier Campground has "a central gathering area with playground and group picnic shelters," while West Glacier KOA features "Gaga ball" among its activities.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Many sites allow pets both in tent sites and cabins. "The campground itself is pet friendly, they even allowed our dog to stay in a camper cabin with us, which many don't," explains Janet R. about Glacier Campground.
Weather preparation: Mountain evenings get cold even in summer. "Stayed in a Pioneer cabin. Nice and clean," shares Sarah at Timber Wolf Resort, offering a warmer alternative to tents.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for comfortable parking. "The sites are level, but just barely," cautions Angela M. about Sundance Campground.
Site size limitations: Check campground specifications before booking. "Sites are real close to each other. Nice to have full hookups," shares Austin C. about North American RV Park & Yurt Village.
Electrical access planning: Extension cords may be necessary at some campgrounds. "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 Glacier Campground.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "No sewer at the sites. There is a dump station you can use on the way out," explains Angela M. about Sundance Campground, while Rocky Mountain Hi offers "Full Hookups, picnic bench, recessed firepit."
