There's a reason why Glacier National Park is bucket list-worthy for close to three million visitors every year. The glaciers, 700+ miles of hiking trails, and 762+ unbelievably blue lakes are all highlights of any visit to this "Crown of the Continent."
As popular as it is, the solitude and vast spaces make this park the perfect place to unplug, relax, and create memories. If you've been itching to go camping at Glacier National Park, we've got the skinny on its best campgrounds and how to snag its best camping spots.
Pitching a tent lakeside (or riverside) is a must for outdoor lovers who love sleeping under the constellations. But you'll also find full hookup RV parks near Glacier National Park if you prefer to bring your rig.
However you choose to experience this Big Sky Country marvel, read on for our ultimate Glacier National Park camping guide.
Key Takeaways
- Glacier National Park has 13 campgrounds. Seven require reservations on Recreation.gov, while six are first-come, first-served.
- Glacier National Park camping reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- The peak camping season in Glacier National Park is late June to early September.
- Apgar, Fish Creek, Sprague Creek, and Avalanche Campgrounds are the best for exploring the Glacier West area. Choose Rising Sun or Saint Mary for the best East Glacier campgrounds.
What to Know Before Your Camping Trip
Glacier National Park is in the northwest corner of Montana, bordering Canada. The closest towns are West Glacier, MT (2 minutes), Hungry Horse, MT (12 minutes), and Columbia Falls, MT (24 minutes). Most visitors fly into Glacier Park International Airport (GFA) in Kalispell and drive 35-45 minutes to the West Glacier Entrance.
Glacier National Park Camping Reservations
There are 13 front-country campgrounds and over 1,000 campsites. Reserve on Recreation.gov for these seven campgrounds:
- Apgar Campground
- Avalanche Campground
- Fish Creek Campground
- Many Glacier Campground
- St. Mary Campground
- Sprague Creek Campground
- Two Medicine Campground
These six are first-come, first-served:
- Rising Sun Campground
- Bowman Lake Campground
- Kintla Lake Campground
- Logging Creek Campground
- Quartz Creek Campground
- Cut Bank Campground
Backcountry camping is also available in 60+ spots with a national park pass and permit.
What to Pack
Glacier's weather is dynamic — layer up and come prepared. Essentials include:
- Puffer jacket & lightweight rain jacket
- Hiking boots & wool socks
- Sunscreen, sunglasses & sun hat
- Bug spray & bear spray (a must)
- Headlamp or lantern
- Refillable water bottle
- First aid kit
- Hiking poles & binoculars