Best Campgrounds in Glacier and Waterton

There are 10 major campgrounds in Glacier National Park, and excellent backcountry sites for backpackers. Reservations for St. Mary campground are available through the National Park Reservation Service (877/444–6777 or 518/885–3639 www.recreation.gov). Reservations may be made up to five months in advance. Parks Canada operates four campgrounds in Waterton Lakes that range from fully serviced to unserviced sites. There are also some backcountry campsites. Visitors can prebook campsites for a fee of C$11 online or C$13.50 by phone. The reservation service is available at www.reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca or by phone at 877/737–3783.

Best Options in Glacier

Apgar Campground. This popular and large campground on the southern shore of Lake McDonald has many activities and services. Apgar Rd. 406/888–7800.

Avalanche Creek Campground. This peaceful campground on Going-to-the-Sun Road is shaded by huge red cedars and bordered by Avalanche Creek. 25 km (15.7 miles) from west entrance on Going-to-the-Sun Rd. 406/888–7800.

Kintla Lake Campground. Beautiful and remote, this is a trout fisherman's dream. 23.5 km (14 miles) north of Polebridge Ranger Station on Inside North Fork Rd.

Many Glacier Campground. One of the most beautiful spots in the park is also a favorite for bears. Next to Swiftcurrent Motor Inn on Many Glacier Rd.

Sprague Creek Campground. This sometimes noisy roadside campground for tents, RVs, and truck campers (no towed units) offers spectacular views of the lake and sunsets, and there's fishing from shore. Going-to-the-Sun Rd., 1.6 km (1 mile) south of Lake McDonald Lodge 406/888–7800.

St. Mary Campground. This large, grassy spot alongside the lake and stream has mountain views and cool breezes. 1.4 km (0.9 mile) from St. Mary entrance to Going-to-the-Sun Rd. 406/888–7800.

Best Options in Waterton

Waterton Townsite Campground. Though the campground is busy and windy, sites here are grassy and flat with access to kitchen shelters and have views down the lake into the U.S. part of the Peace Park. Waterton and Vimy Aves. 877/737–3783.