What to Do When "Reservation Only" Campsites in Glacier National Park are Full
Introduction
Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its stunning scenery and incredible wildlife, it's a place where you can truly reconnect with nature. One of the best ways to experience the park is by camping, and the park offers a range of campsites to suit all needs. However, with the increase in visitors, the park has introduced a reservation-only system for some of its campsites (see this link to view reservation-only camping options). This can be frustrating for those who haven't made a reservation but want to camp in the park. In this article, we'll look at some tips on what to do when "reservation-only" campsites in Glacier National Park are full.
How to Secure a Campsite in Glacier National Park
The good news is that even if all the "reservation only" campsites in Glacier National Park are full, there are still ways to secure a campsite. Here are some options:
1. Check for First-Come, First-Serve Campsites
Not all campsites in Glacier National Park are reservation-only. The park has 180+ campsites that operate on a first-come, first-serve basis (that’s actually more than the ” reservation-only” options)! Check the website here for campground information or alternatively, check with the Park Rangers to see if any of these campsites are available. Keep in mind that these campsites fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot.
2. Look for Cancelled Reservations
If you really want to camp in Glacier National Park, keep checking for cancelled reservations. The park allows visitors to cancel their reservations up to 48 hours before their scheduled arrival date. Keep checking the reservation system to see if any spots become available (see step 2A).
2A. Use our Partner “The Dyrt” to automate notifications when campsite reservations are cancelled and availability opens up
One of Wandervan’s many partners is “The Dyrt” which is the premier user-generated review database for all things campgrounds. Think TripAdvisor, but for campgrounds. One of the best features they offer is automated notifications whenever a “reservation-only” campground becomes available! Just use our special link here to access The Dyrt “Pro” features. Then use the "Alerts” page to set up notifications. This way you’ll be the first to know when availability opens up (which happens all the time)!
3. Consider Camping Outside the Park
If all the campsites in Glacier National Park are full, you can consider camping outside the park. There are several national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas nearby that offer camping opportunities. Check with the park rangers for recommendations. This is a great way to stay close, so that you’re able to arrive at a first-come first-serve campground first thing in the morning, so that you can stake your claim.
4. Stay in a Nearby Town
Another option is to stay in a nearby town and visit the park during the day. There are several towns located near the park, such as West Glacier, Whitefish, and Kalispell. You can easily drive to the park in the morning and return to your accommodation in the evening.
What to Do When You Can't Find a Campsite
If you've exhausted all your options and still can't find a campsite in Glacier National Park, here's what you can do:
1. Look for Other Accommodation Options
Glacier National Park has several lodges, cabins, and motels that you can stay in if you can't find a campsite. However, keep in mind that these options can be expensive and may require advanced booking.
2. Visit During the Shoulder Season
If you're flexible with your travel dates, consider visiting Glacier National Park during the shoulder season. The peak season for the park is from June to August, but the park is open year-round. Visiting during the shoulder season (May and September) can give you a better chance of securing a campsite and can also mean fewer crowds.
3. Explore Other Activities
If you can't find an overnight spot, Glacier National Park has plenty of other activities to offer besides camping. You can go on a hike, take a scenic drive, or go wildlife watching. The park has over 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. You can also take a drive on the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers stunning views of the park. Don't let the lack of a campsite ruin your trip - explore other activities the park has to offer. Everything is reasonably accessible even if staying just outside the park!
FAQ
Q: Can I camp in Glacier National Park without a reservation? A: Plan ahead! Some campsites in the park operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, but the majority of campsites require a reservation.
Q: How far in advance can I make a reservation for a campsite in Glacier National Park? A: Reservations for campsites in Glacier National Park can be made up to six months in advance. Visit the National Park website to get more information.
Q: What should I do if all the "reservation only" campsites in Glacier National Park are full? A: Check for first-come, first-serve campsites, consider camping outside the park, look for cancelled reservations (utilize our partner “The Dyrt”), or stay in a nearby town.
Q: Are there any restrictions on camping in Glacier National Park? A: Yes, there are several restrictions on camping in the park. You can find more information on the park's website.
Q: Can I camp in Glacier National Park during the winter? A: Yes, some campsites in the park are open year-round, but you'll need to be prepared for winter weather conditions.
Q: Can I camp in Glacier National Park with an RV or trailer? A: Yes, the park has several campsites that can accommodate RVs and trailers.
Conclusion
While it can be frustrating to plan an adventure to Glacier National Park only to find out that all the "reservation only" campsites are full, there are still options available. Consider checking for first-come, first-serve campsites, camping outside the park, looking for canceled reservations, or staying in a nearby town. If all else fails, explore other activities the park has to offer, such as hiking and wildlife watching. Don't let the lack of reservation-only campsites ruin your trip to Glacier National Park.
