Most people have never been to Montana, and it’s not one of those famous destinations that millions flock to during vacation times. However, that is one of the reasons that camping near Glacier National Park is such a treasured destination.
There are many campsites available inside the park as well as in the communities near the park. Glacier Park itself encompasses more than one-million acres and it is bordered by two US national forests. You can find a few campsites both inside and outside the park that are free, but most of them are primitive camping and are located in those “off-the-beaten-path” areas. If you want the extra amenities like electric hookups, and bathrooms with running water, you will find that it will cost you a little. Still, Glacier National Park is not an expensive destination, and there’s no better way to enjoy the area than by camping in the great outdoors.
A great camping option that offers both the pleasure of the outdoors and also the convenience of camping close to the stores, restaurants and other conveniences of town, is the Glacier Peaks RV Park in Columbia Falls Montana. This wonderful little RV Resort and campground is located less than a half hour from Glacier National Park which allows you to have quick and easy access to the park but also be close to town for things like groceries, restaurants, entertainment and more.
Flathead National Forest and Lewis and Clark National Forest are the two forests that surround the park. With millions of acres of wilderness area to enjoy throughout the park and the area surrounding it, you will find that no matter how long your vacation is, it is impossible to see and do everything that there is to do in the Glacier National Park area. The park itself boasts more than 700 miles of hiking trails, as well as hundreds of lakes, rivers and streams to enjoy.
Camping In Glacier Park
Glacier Park is the home to many wild and wonderful creatures as well. If you are tent camping in or near the park, you will want to make sure that you clean up thoroughly before leaving your camp for the day or before going to sleep at night, as many of your “wild neighbors” will not pass up the opportunity for a free lunch or dinner if they see the opportunity. There is a healthy population of both black bears and grizzly bears inside Glacier Park, and they do wonder into camp on a regular basis. Of course there are park rangers on duty to help you if any emergencies arise, but it is still best to use common sense when you are in bear country and keep a clean campsite.
You also want to be sure you stay on top of the weather conditions when camping in Glacier Park. The weather in this very mountainous region can change on a whim. And temperatures can vary widely from day to night. Make sure to bring extra blankets along on your trip, especially if you will be camping outside.
Activities in Glacier National Park
You better pack the fly rod, and the rest of your gear and tackle along on your trip. Glacier National Park and the surrounding area is a fisherman’s paradise. The streams both inside and near the park are superb for fly-fishing. And many of the lakes in the area offer some of the best lake trout fishing that you will find anywhere! Including the world-renown Flathead Lake!
There are many other pastimes and activities throughout the area that you are sure to enjoy as well. You can go hiking through the wilderness, visit Logan’s Pass, go for a scenic boat ride, horseback tour, whitewater rafting or even a scenic helicopter tour! And lets not forget about Glacier’s historic Red Bus tours! These iconic Red Buses have been serving the Glacier Park visitor for many decades now and to tour this majestic park in a Red Bus is an experience that you will never forget!
Camping near Glacier National Park is not like any other camping experience you’ve had the pleasure of enjoying in the past. You need to be sure that you give yourself some time to enjoy it all. You will feel relaxed, out of the hustle and bustle, and can you imagine what a Montana sunset will look like as it sets behind the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park painting the surface water of Saint Mary Lake a crimson red? The sight is too beautiful for words!
Take the tips you’ve read in this article to help you make a decision about your Glacier National Park camping experience. You are going to have the time of your life, and you’re going to want to return again and again.
