Dispersed tent camping near West Glacier, Montana offers numerous primitive sites within 30 minutes of Glacier National Park, accessible via forest service roads of varying conditions. The region sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter brings heavy snowfall, limiting access to most dispersed areas from November through April.
What to do
Kayaking on Hungry Horse Reservoir: Located 37 miles from Hungry Horse on unpaved roads, this location offers excellent paddling opportunities. "37 miles from Hungry Horse to this location, almost 25 of the unpaved and some of the road is really rough and extremely narrow, much of it along steep Cliffs but when you take 895 around the reservoir once you pass the really small bridge with a 10 mph sign, go approximately two and a half miles to 895J and it will lead you directly down to numerous spots along the lake including an open meadow and several areas where you can launch a boat or kayaks," reports a camper at Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed.
Hiking to backcountry lakes: Access Gunsight Lake via a moderate 7-mile trail from Going-to-the-Sun Road. "Hike tip: don't skip the turnoffs for the various waterfalls. They're beautiful and worth it. Also, try to go during beargrass season—you won't be disappointed," advises a backpacker who visited Gunsight Lake Wilderness Campsite. The trail begins with a quick descent before leveling out in the valley.
Early morning lakeside views: Experience mirror-like water reflections at dawn. "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," shares a camper who stayed at Bowman Lake Campground. Another visitor notes, "Walking out to the lake early in the morning provides a surreal experience with the water being so still."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The best tent camping near West Glacier offers secluded spots away from crowds. At Blankenship Bridge, campers appreciate the space. "We stayed here to have quick access to Glacier National Park. The road coming down to the camping area was sketchy with deep potholes and ruts but we had a large SUV so we managed. There are plentiful sites, some with fire rings, many spots for car or van campers to park near the beautiful river," one reviewer shares.
River access for cooling off: Many sites offer direct water access for swimming during hot summer days. "Beautiful beach side or individual sites. Super clean porta potty. Off road to access - need 4WD if real muddy. Not easy access for campers," notes a camper at Blankenship Bridge, highlighting the riverside camping options just 15 minutes from Glacier's west entrance.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region hosts abundant wildlife including deer, mountain goats, and birds. At Sperry Wilderness Campsite, one camper reports, "There is a mountain goat with blunted horns (who we named Earl) that frequented the site while we were cooking, setting up our tent, and again in the morning. Watch out if your underwear is hanging to dry. Keep it high enough so Earl can't reach it!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. At Ryan Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor warns, "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). I was in the next to the last site. Only a few sites can accommodate larger vehicles."
Seasonal closures affect accessibility: Some areas close for logging or fire danger. "Closed and gated off on 9/24/24. Road to this location was closed. A closed gate that looks private prevented access," reports a visitor attempting to reach Hungry Horse Reservoir. Another notes, "The road is closed, due to fire hazard."
Insect populations peak in summer: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly near water sources. "I experienced more mosquito bites here than at any other spot in Montana. Bring your repellant!" warns a camper about Bowman Lake. Another adds, "Located close to the west entrance, this dispersed camping location is quiet and easily accessible to most vehicles. It did fill up, so get there early. Mosquitos were pretty bad."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming areas: Look for gentle shorelines for safer water play. "This spot is it! Right on a clear river, came in on Tuesday at 6pm. Still river spots available. Dog friendly and safe, I'm a female traveling on my own with my dog," shares a camper at Blankenship Bridge, noting the accessible riverside spots that work well for families.
Wildlife education opportunities: Teach children about proper wildlife observation from safe distances. At Bowman Lake Campground, "We didn't see any bears, but 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. It's crazy."
Site selection for shade: Choose sites with adequate tree cover for summer temperature management. "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. We chose the very last site before the gate leading back to the Ryan air strip. Our site was quiet, loaded with trees and flowers and had a fire pit," describes a visitor to Ryan Road.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions for backcountry roads: Larger RVs face significant limitations on forest roads. "This is a good spot for smaller rv's or tents but any spot I seen for rv larger than 30' was taken or really not available. Some paid for camping spots but they were full, after dragging my 38' rv up the road I wished that they had signs at the bottom noting all the paid for sites were full," shares an RV camper at Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed.
Turning radius challenges: Forest roads often lack adequate turning spaces for longer vehicles. "The road in was narrow. Glad I didn't have any problems with on coming riggs," notes an RVer with a 21-foot trailer at Ryan Road Dispersed Camping.
Early arrival crucial for limited spaces: Few dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs, requiring early morning arrivals. "Not sure where we were going to spend the night, but discovered this great campsite through the Dyrt! Large campsites but was pretty full for the night. We were able to get a space for our Mercedes Sprinter next to another van. Score!" reports a van camper at Ryan Road.
