West Glacier, MT
Kintla Lake Campground
Kintla Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no permit required, making it one of the most accessible remote camping options in Glacier National Park. Located in the North Fork section of the park near West Glacier, this tent-only campground sits directly on Kintla Lake and draws far fewer visitors than other Glacier National Park sites.
The rough dirt road access and remote location mean this campground rarely reaches capacity, offering tent campers genuine solitude and a quieter experience than more popular spots like Many Glacier Campground or Fish Creek Campground. Trailers are not permitted, preserving the backcountry feel and keeping the camping experience simple and intimate.
As part of Glacier National Park, Kintla Lake Campground provides frontcountry camping with the isolation typically found only on backcountry trips. The combination of no-permit-required access and consistently available sites makes it an ideal choice for spontaneous trips or travelers seeking alpine scenery without the crowds.
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Campsites are first-come, first-serve.
View on Google MapsCommon Questions
What campers most often want to know about Kintla Lake Campground.
Do I need a permit to camp at Kintla Lake Campground?
No permit is required to camp at Kintla Lake Campground. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so you can arrive and secure a site without advance authorization.
Can I bring a trailer to Kintla Lake Campground?
No, trailers are not permitted at Kintla Lake Campground. The campground is tent-only, and access is via a rough dirt road unsuitable for trailers.
How do I make a reservation at Kintla Lake Campground?
Kintla Lake Campground does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You must arrive at the campground to claim an available site.
What makes Kintla Lake Campground different from other campgrounds in Glacier National Park?
Kintla Lake is Glacier National Park's most remote frontcountry car camping campground, located approximately 40 miles from the west entrance in the North Fork area. Due to its remote location and rough dirt road access, it rarely fills and offers a quiet, solitary camping experience.
Is Kintla Lake Campground accessible by car?
Yes, Kintla Lake Campground is accessible by car, but the access road is rough and unpaved. It is located in the North Fork section of the park, approximately 40 miles from the west entrance.