Abundant opportunities for dispersed camping await in the vicinity of Glacier National Park. Armed with basic insights, discovering cost-free camping sites just beyond the park’s boundaries becomes effortlessly achievable, whether you’re on the western or eastern peripheries. The majority of these sites fall under the category of dispersed campsites nestled within the expanse of Flathead National Forest.
Below, I’ve outlined a selection of my preferred dispersed campsites that come free of charge and are conveniently located near Glacier National Park.
Prime Cost-Free Camping Spots in Proximity to Glacier
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Skyland Road | Scenic route with camping opportunities. |
| The Coal Banks | Camping area with access to the river. |
| Blankenship Bridge | Riverside camping spot with charm. |
| Hungry Horse Reservoir | Campsites by the reservoir. |
| Lower Whitefish Road | Camping options along the road. |
Top Picks for Cost-Free Camping Near Glacier National Park
While dispersed camping isn’t permitted within Glacier National Park, you’ll be delighted to discover an abundance of free campsites conveniently situated beyond its borders. Here, I’ve highlighted five of my personal favorites that offer an exceptional camping experience just a stone’s throw away from the park’s edges.
Skyland Road (East Side)
For those seeking a remarkable free camping experience in proximity to Glacier National Park, Skyland Road emerges as an excellent choice.
To reach this picturesque spot, simply veer south from Highway 2, precisely southwest of the Summit Mountain Lodge & Steakhouse. Here, you’ll encounter a meandering unpaved forest service road adorned with scattered dispersed campsites.
As soon as you make the turn onto Skyland Road, potential campsites will come into view, offering immediate options for your stay. Nevertheless, I recommend driving at least to the junction with FR 1653 before settling in. This added distance ensures a comfortable separation from the highway’s hustle.
Among the array of options, my favored campsites cluster around the vicinity of the “Challenge Cabin,” although it’s important to note that this cabin is only accessible during the winter months. While RVs and trailers are best suited for the initial couple of miles, most standard passenger vehicles can venture deeper without hassle. However, exercise caution if you’re operating a low-clearance vehicle, as ruts, potholes, and rocks can be prevalent.
Regrettably, the landscape surrounding Skyland Road bears the scars of substantial forest fires, with a majority of the area’s trees displaying the effects of intense burning. Despite this, the allure of Skyland Road’s unique camping experience remains undiminished.
- Location: Accessible by turning south off Highway 2, southwest of Summit Mountain Lodge & Steakhouse;
- Road Type: Winding unpaved forest service road with dispersed campsites;
- Initial Campsites: Visible immediately upon entering Skyland Road;
- Recommended Campsite Area: Drive at least to the junction with FR 1653 for better distance from the highway;
- Preferred Campsites: Near “Challenge Cabin” (open only in winter);
- Vehicle Suitability: RVs and trailers should stick to the first few miles, while most passenger vehicles can proceed farther. Low-clearance vehicles should exercise caution due to ruts, potholes, and rocks;
- Landscape Impact: Area heavily impacted by forest fires; most trees show severe burn damage.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Part of Flathead National Forest |
| Camping Regulations | Dispersed camping allowed up to 14 days |
| Contact Hungry Horse Ranger District | Phone: (406) 387-3800 |
| GPS Coordinates | 48.285444, -113.366222 |
The Coal Banks (West Side)
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at the informal haven known as Coal Banks, nestled on the western fringes of Glacier National Park.
While space isn’t overly abundant, the allure of Coal Banks lies in its peaceful ambiance. Campers should tread with care and respect toward neighboring private property. Despite the cozy setup, the grounds can comfortably accommodate around six groups, ensuring a semblance of seclusion.
Beyond the park’s proximity, Coal Banks shines due to its prime riverside locale. Set up camp just steps away from both the North Fork Flathead River and Coal Creek, providing a symphony of soothing sounds and scenic vistas.
Whether you’re traveling in small RVs or trailers, Coal Banks offers fitting accommodations. However, it’s advisable to steer clear if you’re navigating a substantial rig. Most passenger vehicles can navigate the terrain with ease, without the need for high-clearance or 4WD.
Embrace the opportunity to explore the captivating Montana community of Polebridge, home to the storied Polebridge Mercantile. A mere 15-minute drive connects you to this intriguing gem.
Environmental Note: Considering the proximity to the river, responsible camping practices are vital. Human waste should not be buried on-site; kindly pack it out to preserve the pristine environment.
- Location: Peaceful site on Glacier National Park’s western edge, informally named Coal Banks;
- Space and Respect: Limited space, campers must be respectful of nearby private property;
- Capacity: Can host approximately six parties, ensuring some level of privacy;
- Riverside Charm: Main draw is its riverside location, adjacent to North Fork Flathead River and Coal Creek;
- Vehicle Accommodation: Small RVs and trailers are suitable, not recommended for large rigs;
- Vehicle Accessibility: Most passenger vehicles can access the site without issues, no need for high-clearance or 4WD;
- Nearby Gem: Just 15 minutes away is the intriguing Montana community of Polebridge, featuring the historic Polebridge Mercantile;
- Environmental Consideration: Due to proximity to the river, no burying of human waste; pack it out responsibly.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Part of Flathead National Forest |
| Camping Regulations | Dispersed camping allowed up to 14 days |
| Contact Glacier View Ranger District | Phone: (406) 387-3800 |
| GPS Coordinates | 48.689750, -114.194778 |
Blankenship Bridge (West Side)
Nestled a mere half-hour away from Glacier National Park’s West Glacier Entrance, Blankenship Bridge stands as one of the most coveted destinations for dispersed camping, creating a harmonious connection with the pristine surroundings.
Situated along the Middle Fork Flathead River within Flathead National Forest, this locale presents numerous options for setting up camp. Yet, the true gems are the campsites strewn across the expansive gravel river bar, offering an unparalleled experience.
While the camping experience at Blankenship Bridge may not be synonymous with solitude (given its perpetual popularity, particularly in the summer), its allure lies in the breathtaking scenery and unparalleled river access. The site becomes a haven for activities like swimming, fishing, and rafting, fostering an environment of natural enjoyment.
However, it’s worth noting that the area’s high demand and its proximity to private residences have prompted local efforts to halt dispersed camping here. As of the summer of 2022, the Forest Service still permits dispersed camping. Nonetheless, this policy could undergo changes without notice. It’s prudent to make a call in advance for the latest updates before planning your visit.
Environmental Reminder: Given the campsite’s close proximity to the river, adhering to responsible practices is essential. Human waste cannot be buried on-site. Instead, opt to pack it out or utilize the provided porta-potties to preserve the area’s pristine beauty.
- Location: Just 30 minutes from Glacier National Park’s West Glacier Entrance;
- Setting: Along Middle Fork Flathead River in Flathead National Forest;
- Campsite Diversity: Multiple camping spots available, with prime sites on expansive gravel river bar;
- Ambiance: While not secluded, the site offers stunning vistas and excellent river access;
- Recreational Opportunities: Ideal for swimming, fishing, and rafting;
- Popularity Impact: High visitation, particularly in summer; may not provide solitude;
- Local Concerns: Nearby private residences have led to debates about closing the area to dispersed camping;
- Current Status: As of summer 2022, Forest Service permits dispersed camping, but policies might change; call ahead for updates;
- Environmental Consideration: Due to proximity to river and local concerns, human waste must be packed out or use provided porta-potties to maintain the environment.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Part of Flathead National Forest |
| Camping Regulations | Dispersed camping allowed up to 3 nights |
| Contact Hungry Horse Ranger District | Phone: (406) 387-3800 |
| GPS Coordinates | 48.463565, -114.072305 |
Hungry Horse Reservoir (West Side)
The expanse of Hungry Horse Reservoir offers an abundance of cost-free dispersed camping opportunities, surrounded entirely by the vast beauty of Flathead National Forest. While campsites in close proximity to the water tend to fill rapidly, even during weekdays, venturing farther from the reservoir opens up numerous options for setting up camp.
Given the extensive range of available sites spanning a wide area, pinpointing specific recommendations becomes challenging. However, initiating your search along West Side Fork Road (FR 895) proves to be a promising starting point, particularly if you desire convenient access to the national park.
For added seclusion, exploring the network of spur roads away from the reservoir, such as Dorris Creek Road, Lost Johnny Road, or Wounded Buck Road (all branching off West Side Fork Road), presents opportunities for enhanced privacy.
In my personal experience, I’ve found the dispersed campsites to the south, near the reservoir’s southern terminus, especially around Sullivan Creek Bridge, to be particularly appealing. Nonetheless, these sites may be too distant for convenient day trips to Glacier National Park.
The eastern shore of Hungry Horse Reservoir equally offers an array of dispersed camping options. Easily accessible sites are located just off South Fork Flathead Road (also known as East Side Road).
Both larger RV-friendly sites and more compact sites suitable for passenger vehicles dot the landscape. However, if navigating an RV or trailer, exercise caution on forest service roads; scout ahead on foot to gauge narrowness and turning opportunities.
- Camping Variety: Plentiful cost-free dispersed camping around Hungry Horse Reservoir, enveloped by the expansive beauty of Flathead National Forest;
- Proximity Impact: Sites close to water fill swiftly, even on weekdays; exploration further from reservoir unveils numerous camping possibilities;
- Starting Point: Commence search along West Side Fork Road (FR 895) for a promising beginning, especially if seeking convenient access to the national park;
- Enhanced Seclusion: Uncover added privacy by navigating spur roads like Dorris Creek Road, Lost Johnny Road, or Wounded Buck Road (all stemming from West Side Fork Road);
- Southern Appeal: In my personal experience, I’ve found southern dispersed campsites near the reservoir’s end, particularly around Sullivan Creek Bridge, remarkably alluring. Note that these sites might be a bit far for easy day trips to Glacier National Park;
- Eastern Shores: Hungry Horse Reservoir’s eastern side also hosts a variety of dispersed camping options, easily accessible from South Fork Flathead Road (also known as East Side Road);
- Accommodation Diversity: Choose between larger RV-friendly sites and more compact sites suitable for passenger vehicles, each contributing to the landscape;
- RV Navigation: Caution is advised when navigating forest service roads with RVs or trailers; scout on foot beforehand to assess narrowness and turning feasibility.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Part of Flathead National Forest |
| Camping Regulations | Dispersed camping allowed up to 16 days |
| Contact Hungry Horse Ranger District | Phone: (406) 387-3800 |
| GPS Coordinates | 48.321028, -113.984722 |
Lower Whitefish Road
Camping on Montana State Trust Lands necessitates a Montana Recreational Use License, obtainable at $10 for a one-year duration.
The dispersed campsites lining Lower Whitefish Road hold a special place as my personal favorites in proximity to Glacier National Park.
Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that this style of camping might not suit everyone. The majority of these campsites, except for a few, are situated very close to the road, which diminishes their privacy. Finding a spacious enough location can prove challenging for all but the most compact RVs and trailers.
Nonetheless, Lower Whitefish Road serves as an ideal overnight base for exploring the charming towns of Whitefish and Kalispell. Moreover, it’s merely an hour’s drive to West Glacier.
While the unpaved dirt road witnesses considerable activity during daylight hours (with the summer bringing about an abundance of dust), evenings bring a significant reduction in commotion.
For those seeking alternatives, dispersed camping opportunities are also present along Upper Whitefish Road, with the option to camp at Upper Whitefish Campground.
- Camping Regulations: Montana State Trust Lands camping requires a Montana Recreational Use License costing $10 for a one-year duration;
- Personal Favorites: Dispersed campsites along Lower Whitefish Road are my preferred choice in proximity to Glacier National Park;
- Privacy Consideration: Many Lower Whitefish Road campsites are close to the road, impacting privacy; finding spacious spots challenging for larger RVs;
- Convenient Base: Lower Whitefish Road serves as an overnight base for exploring Whitefish and Kalispell towns; an hour’s drive to West Glacier;
- Daylight Activity: Unpaved road experiences significant activity during the day, especially in summer with raised dust levels; evenings offer reduced commotion;
- Alternatives: Dispersed camping opportunities also extend to Upper Whitefish Road; option to camp at Upper Whitefish Campground is available.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Part of Stillwater State Forest |
| Camping Regulations | Dispersed camping allowed up to 14 days |
| Contact Kalispell Unit Office | Phone: (406) 751-2241 |
| GPS Coordinates | 48.509889, -114.437611 |
Is Dispersed Camping Permitted Within Glacier National Park?
No, dispersed camping within Glacier National Park is not permitted. However, as demonstrated earlier, a wealth of free dispersed campsites can be found just thirty minutes to an hour beyond the park’s boundaries. Dispersed camping is indeed a rarity within national parks, as most restrict this practice. The National Park Service prioritizes conservation, leading to camping being confined to developed campgrounds within Glacier.
Conclusion
As evident, Glacier National Park is enveloped by a multitude of fantastic dispersed camping sites.
However, please bear in mind that the suggestions provided earlier are merely an initial point of reference. Numerous additional locations for cost-free dispersed camping near Glacier await your discovery if you choose to embark on further exploration.