When I first visited Glacier National Park, I was overwhelmed by its rugged beauty. Snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and wildflower-strewn meadows—there’s nothing quite like it. If you’re thinking about visiting, I highly recommend spending some time camping in the park to fully immerse yourself in its wonders.
But with so many campsites to choose from, where do you even begin? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll take you through the best camping sites in Glacier National Park and share what makes each one special.
Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park 2025
Key Takeaways
- Glacier National Park is home to some of the most beautiful and remote camping sites in the U.S.
- Popular camping options include both front-country and backcountry campsites.
- The park offers various recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
- I’ll take you through the best camping sites, what makes them special, and tips for making the most of your visit.
- Plan your trip to Glacier National Park carefully to experience the park at its best!
Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is known for its spectacular natural beauty, and there are a number of amazing camping sites scattered across its vast landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs and offers incredible views.
Why Is Glacier National Park Famous?
Glacier National Park is famous for its stunning alpine scenery, abundant wildlife, and pristine wilderness. Established in 1910, it’s home to over 26 glaciers, more than 200 waterfalls, and a variety of ecosystems ranging from lush forests to high mountain meadows. The park’s diverse landscapes make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who love hiking, wildlife viewing, and, of course, camping.
The best camping sites in Glacier National Park offer visitors a chance to experience all of this up close. From camping beside tranquil lakes to staying near trailheads for epic hikes, Glacier has a site for every kind of camper.
Plan Your Visit to the Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Before heading out to camp in Glacier National Park, there are a few things you should know to make your trip more enjoyable:
- Best Time to Visit: The summer months (June to September) are the peak season when the weather is best for camping. However, certain campsites may close in winter due to snow, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
- Campground Reservations: Some campsites in the park can be reserved in advance, especially during peak season. I recommend booking early to ensure you get your spot at one of the best camping sites in Glacier National Park.
- Permit Requirements: If you plan on backcountry camping, you’ll need a backcountry permit. These can be reserved or obtained at visitor centers.
Top Things to Do at the Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Aside from camping, Glacier National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers. Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy:
- Hiking: Glacier offers an impressive network of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes. Popular hikes near best camping sites in Glacier National Park include the Hidden Lake Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and the Highline Trail.
- Wildlife Watching: Glacier is home to grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and many other animals. Wildlife watching is a must-do activity.
- Scenic Drives: The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking scenic drive that offers unparalleled views of the park’s mountains and valleys. If you’re camping near this road, make sure to take a leisurely drive to enjoy the views.
- Boating and Fishing: Many of the lakes in Glacier offer opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Some campsites are located near these lakes, so it’s easy to spend a day on the water.
Current Conditions at the Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Before you set off on your camping adventure, make sure to check the current conditions in Glacier National Park. The weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains, so it’s important to stay informed.
- Snow and Trail Conditions: In higher elevations, snow can linger well into the summer months, so make sure the trails you plan to hike are accessible. Some of the best camping sites in Glacier National Park may also be affected by snow cover.
- Wildlife Alerts: There are often bear warnings in certain areas of the park, especially near campsites. Be sure to follow all guidelines for storing food and dealing with wildlife.
Lodging Options Near the Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
While camping is the most immersive way to experience the park, there are also a variety of lodging options near the best camping sites in Glacier National Park. If you want to mix up your camping trip with some comfort, these options provide great alternatives:
- Log Cabins and Hotels: Near the West Entrance and the Many Glacier area, there are cozy log cabins and historic hotels. These options allow you to enjoy the park’s beauty without sacrificing comfort.
- Backcountry Lodges: For those who prefer a rustic experience, the park has a few backcountry lodges that can only be reached by hiking. They provide a unique way to experience the wilderness without setting up camp every night.
How to Reach the Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Getting to the best camping sites in Glacier National Park is part of the adventure. Here’s a rundown of the best ways to get there:
- By Car: The most common way to reach the park is by car. Glacier is accessible via the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which stretches across the park and provides access to many of the best campsites.
- By Plane: The closest major airport to Glacier National Park is the Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. From there, you can rent a car and head to the park.
- By Train: Amtrak operates a route through Whitefish, Montana, just south of the park, providing another option for getting to Glacier.
Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park: The Top Picks
Now that you have the basics, let’s dive into some of the best camping sites in Glacier National Park.
1. Apgar Campground
Located near the West Entrance, Apgar Campground is one of the most popular sites in Glacier National Park. It’s a great choice for families and first-time visitors.
- What Makes It Special: Apgar is nestled beside Lake McDonald, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for kayaking or fishing. The campground is also close to many of the park’s main attractions, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Reservations: You can reserve a spot at Apgar, and it’s highly recommended to book early during the summer months.
2. Many Glacier Campground
If you’re looking to camp near some of the most iconic trails in the park, Many Glacier Campground is the place to be. It’s located on the east side of the park, near the breathtaking Many Glacier Hotel.
- What Makes It Special: This campground is a perfect starting point for hiking trails like Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake. The area is known for its wildlife, so keep an eye out for moose, bears, and bighorn sheep.
- Reservations: Many Glacier Campground fills up quickly, so I recommend booking in advance if you plan to stay here.
3. Two Medicine Campground
For a quieter, more remote camping experience, head to the Two Medicine area on the park’s southeast side. This campground is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
- What Makes It Special: Two Medicine is less crowded than other areas in the park, yet it offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The nearby trailheads lead to some of the park’s best hikes, including the Scenic Point Trail and the Dawson Pass Trail.
- Reservations: This campground is first-come, first-served, so make sure to arrive early to snag a spot.
4. St. Mary Campground
St. Mary Campground is located on the east side of the park, near the St. Mary Visitor Center. It’s a great base for exploring the park’s northern and eastern sections.
- What Makes It Special: St. Mary is conveniently located near the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and offers easy access to the nearby Many Glacier and Wild Goose Island areas. The campground is also close to the St. Mary Falls Trail and other scenic spots.
- Reservations: This is another popular campground, so it’s best to make reservations well in advance.
5. Fish Creek Campground
For a lakeside camping experience, Fish Creek Campground on the west side of the park offers easy access to the clear waters of Lake McDonald.
- What Makes It Special: Fish Creek is one of the largest campgrounds in the park, with plenty of spaces for both tents and RVs. The campground offers a peaceful environment and is a great starting point for hikes like the Avalanche Lake Trail.
- Reservations: Fish Creek Campground accepts reservations, but it fills up fast during peak season.
Conclusion: Best Camping Sites in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With so many best camping sites in Glacier National Park to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent, unwind, and experience the park’s beauty up close.
Whether you prefer a front-country site with easy access to amenities or a backcountry location that immerses you in solitude, Glacier has it all. Just remember to plan ahead, stay informed about current conditions, and make the most of your time in this incredible park.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and start planning your next adventure at one of the best camping sites in Glacier National Park—I guarantee it’ll be a trip you won’t forget!
