St. Mary Campground – Glacier National Park, Montana

St. Mary Campground sits on the eastern edge of Glacier National Park and offers one of the most dramatic settings of any campground in the region. With sweeping views of the St. Mary Valley, close proximity to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and quick access to the park’s iconic east-side landscapes, it serves as an ideal basecamp for hikers, road-trippers, and anyone exploring Glacier’s rugged east side. The open scenery, crisp mountain air, and stunning sunrise light over the peaks make St. Mary a favorite among park visitors.

Location & Surroundings

Located near the St. Mary Entrance Station, the campground sits at the junction of Glacier’s eastern prairies and the steep mountains of the Lewis Range. This side of the park is known for wide valleys, wind-sculpted forests, and expansive lake views, with St. Mary Lake only a short distance away. The campground is also near the town of St. Mary, where visitors can find groceries, fuel, dining, and additional services—making this one of the most accessible campgrounds on Glacier’s east side.

Campground Overview

St. Mary Campground is one of Glacier’s largest, with several loops that accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Many sites sit in partially wooded or open terrain, providing excellent views of the mountains and allowing campers to enjoy the cool evening breezes that come across the valley. Because the east side of Glacier is more exposed to wind and weather, campers should expect variable conditions—but they are rewarded with striking scenery and some of the park’s most colorful skies.

Amenities

The campground provides potable water, restrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. A seasonal dump station is available for RV travelers, and the nearby St. Mary Visitor Center provides trail information, ranger programs, and exhibits about the park’s cultural and natural history. While there are no electrical hookups or showers, most visitors find the campground’s location and convenience more than make up for the minimalist amenities. Its ease of access to town services also helps ensure a comfortable stay.

Activities & Nearby Trails

St. Mary Campground is perfectly positioned for exploring famed east-side destinations like Logan Pass, Sunrift Gorge, St. Mary Falls, and the Highline Trail. Popular hikes along the Going-to-the-Sun Road are within a short drive, and sunrise photography along St. Mary Lake is among the best in the park. Wildlife sightings—including deer, bighorn sheep, and the occasional bear—are common in the area. The open terrain also makes this campground excellent for stargazing, with dark skies and unobstructed views of the Milky Way.

Summary

St. Mary Campground offers a scenic, accessible, and adventure-ready basecamp on Glacier National Park’s east side. With outstanding mountain views, excellent access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and proximity to both wilderness and essential services, it’s an ideal choice for visitors seeking to experience the full beauty of Glacier’s rugged landscapes. For hikers, photographers, and road-trippers who want to be close to the park’s most iconic destinations, St. Mary is one of the best campgrounds in the region.