Avalanche Campground – Glacier National Park, Montana

Avalanche Campground is one of the most popular and scenic places to stay on the west side of Glacier National Park, set among towering cedar and hemlock forest near the base of Avalanche Gorge. With its cool shade, lush vegetation, and direct access to two of Glacier’s most iconic trails, this campground offers an ideal mix of convenience, beauty, and classic Glacier National Park atmosphere.

Location & Setting

The campground is located roughly 15 miles east of West Glacier along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, in one of the park’s most lush and dramatic forest zones. Set at the mouth of Avalanche Creek, the area is defined by dense old-growth trees, moss-covered forest floor, and the sound of rushing glacial water. The location is extremely convenient for accessing the west side of the park, especially the popular Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars areas, both within walking distance from camp.

Campground Overview

Avalanche Campground includes around 85 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and small to mid-sized RVs. Because of tree density, larger rigs may find maneuvering difficult, but most standard sites offer good shade, level pads, and a peaceful forest setting. Loops are arranged within a thick cedar and hemlock grove, giving the campground a cool, quiet, and immersive feel—especially appealing during hot summer days. Avalanche typically fills very quickly during peak season due to its proximity to major attractions.

Amenities

Campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-resistant food lockers. Potable water and modern restroom buildings with flush toilets are available during the main season. There are no electrical hookups or showers, and the nearest dump station is located at the Apgar area closer to the park entrance. As with all Glacier National Park campgrounds, strict food storage rules apply due to the presence of black bears and grizzlies in the area. The nearby camp store and visitor services at Lake McDonald are just a short drive away.

Activities & Nearby Trails

Avalanche Campground is perfectly positioned for accessing two of Glacier’s signature trails. The Trail of the Cedars—a short, family-friendly loop—begins right near the campground and winds through some of the park’s most impressive old-growth forest. From this loop, hikers can continue to Avalanche Lake, a moderate trail that leads to a stunning alpine lake framed by waterfalls cascading down sheer mountain walls. These trails alone make Avalanche one of the most popular day-use areas in the park.

Beyond the immediate trails, campers can continue east along Going-to-the-Sun Road toward Logan Pass for world-class hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic mountain overlooks. Lake McDonald, located to the west, provides opportunities for paddling, photography, and lakeshore relaxation—all easily accessible from the campground.

Summary

Avalanche Campground blends the best of Glacier National Park’s west side: shaded forest camping, rushing glacial streams, iconic trail access, and a quiet sense of immersion in nature. With its unbeatable location along Going-to-the-Sun Road and direct access to Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars, it’s one of the most desirable places to stay in the park. For campers seeking comfort, scenery, and easy trail access, Avalanche is a top-tier Glacier experience.