Fish Creek Campground: A College Student's Guide to Glacier National Park on a Budget
Glacier National Park. The name alone conjures images of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and untamed wilderness. As four college students – Maya (pre-med), Liam (environmental science), Chloe (journalism), and Noah (photography) – we were eager to experience it all before the looming responsibilities of senior year. Our destination: Fish Creek Campground, a popular spot nestled on the shores of Lake McDonald. We aimed to explore Glacier on a budget, and this campground was our home base for adventure. This review will give you the inside scoop on camping at Fish Creek, from bear encounters to sudden rainstorms and, of course, the breathtaking beauty that makes Glacier National Park so special. So, pack your bags (and your bear spray!), and let's dive in!
Finding Our Slice of Montana Paradise
Getting to Fish Creek Campground was surprisingly easy. Located on the west side of Glacier National Park, it's just a short drive from the West Glacier entrance. You can easily find it by plugging these GPS coordinates into your phone: 48.6238° N, 114.0157° W. Keep an eye out for the well-marked signs along Going-to-the-Sun Road; you can't miss it. We found the location ideal, allowing for quick access to both Lake McDonald and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Setting Up Camp (and Surviving the Elements)
Setting up our tent was a bit of a mixed bag. Some spots had softer, more forgiving ground, perfect for driving in tent stakes. Others were definitely on the rocky side, requiring a bit more patience and strategic stake placement. Proximity to trees was a major plus, providing much-needed shade during the day. Liam, ever the environmental scientist, appreciated the natural setting and the efforts to preserve the surrounding forest.
What amenities are available at Fish Creek Campground? Fish Creek Campground offers standard amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. While there are no showers directly within Fish Creek Campground, showers are available for a fee at nearby Apgar Village.
Campfire regulations are strict, but necessary. Campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits, and collecting firewood within the park is prohibited. You can purchase firewood at the campground store or in nearby Apgar Village. We made sure to follow all the rules to help prevent wildfires and protect this incredible place.
How much does it cost to camp at Fish Creek Campground? Campsite fees vary depending on the season and type of site (tent-only, RV, etc.), so check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information.
Vault Toilets and Shower Situations
Let's be honest: the bathroom facilities are, well, vault toilets. They're functional, but not exactly luxurious. They were generally clean and well-maintained, which we appreciated. Showers aren't available directly at Fish Creek Campground. If you're craving a hot shower, you can find pay showers at the Apgar Village Campground, a short drive away. We opted for a quick dip in Lake McDonald a few times instead!
Adventures Around Fish Creek: Hiking, Kayaking, and Stargazing
Fish Creek Campground is the perfect launchpad for exploring Glacier National Park. We packed our days with incredible activities.
Hiking the Hidden Lake Trail
One of our favorite hikes was the Hidden Lake Trail. This moderate hike takes you through stunning alpine meadows, past pristine lakes, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The boardwalk section near Hidden Lake is particularly beautiful and helps protect the delicate ecosystem.
What are the best hiking trails near Fish Creek Campground easy? Besides Hidden Lake Trail, consider the Rocky Point Trail for relatively easy access to panoramic views of Lake McDonald. The Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake is also a popular, mostly flat option.
And speaking of wildlife, we had a close encounter of the grizzly kind! From a safe distance, we spotted a grizzly bear grazing in the meadow below the trail. It was an awe-inspiring sight, but also a stark reminder of the importance of carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it. We kept our distance, made plenty of noise, and thankfully, the bear continued on its way, unbothered.
Camping in Glacier National Park with bear safety tips? Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears. Store food properly in bear-resistant containers. Never approach or feed wildlife.
Kayaking on Lake McDonald
Kayaking on Lake McDonald was an absolute must. The crystal-clear water and towering mountain views were simply breathtaking. We rented kayaks from a vendor in Apgar Village and spent a glorious afternoon paddling along the shoreline, soaking in the scenery. The water was surprisingly cold, but the views were worth it!
Stargazing Under the Montana Sky
At night, away from the city lights, Fish Creek Campground transformed into a stargazer's paradise. We were able to spot constellations like the Big Dipper, Orion, and Cassiopeia with incredible clarity. Noah, our resident photographer, spent hours capturing the Milky Way stretching across the night sky.
The Unexpected: A Grizzly Encounter and a Sudden Storm
Glacier National Park is known for its unpredictable weather, and we experienced this firsthand. One afternoon, while relaxing at our campsite, a sudden and intense rainstorm rolled in with almost no warning. One minute, it was sunny; the next, we were scrambling to secure our tent and gear as the wind howled and the rain poured down. The rainstorm was suddenly bursting upon us!
What is the best time to visit Fish Creek Campground? The best time to visit Fish Creek Campground is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is generally warmer and drier. However, be prepared for occasional rainstorms and cooler temperatures, especially at night.
Grizzly Close Encounter
During our Hidden Lake Trail hike, the surprise of our lives occurred. A grizzly bear emerged from the woods, triggering a swift, adrenaline-fueled dance. We deployed our bear spray, creating clarity amid the chaos, the bear retreated, leaving us with a potent mix of fear and awe. The emotion of the moment was real.
The Rapid Rainstorm
The suddenly bursting rain was intense! It rapidly drenched everything. Clarity of action was needed. Noah sprung into action, frantically attempting to fold and shove our soaking wet tent into its bag.
Community Around the Campfire
One evening, we joined another group of campers around their campfire. We shared stories, played a hilarious game of charades (acting out different Montana wildlife was a particular highlight), and learned about their experiences in the park. It was a reminder that camping is not just about being in nature, but also about connecting with other people who share a love for the outdoors.
Capture the Adventure: Witness the Wild Beauty and Unexpected Twists of Glacier National Park
Don't just take our word for it – experience the magic of Glacier National Park for yourself! We captured our entire adventure, from the majestic landscapes to the hilarious challenges, in a stunning viral video.
HOOK: A time-lapse of the Milky Way bursting into view over Lake McDonald.
SCENE: Shot in cinematic 4K on a RED camera with dramatic lighting during golden hour. Rapidly panning GoPro footage of Liam kayaking on Lake McDonald interspersed with low-angle shots of Maya and Chloe laughing.
TWIST: A rapid-motion scene of Noah frantically trying to fold and shove our soaking wet tent into its bag during the unexpected rainstorm.
Check it out now and get inspired to plan your own unforgettable trip!
Final Thoughts on Fish Creek Campground
Fish Creek Campground is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Glacier National Park on a budget. While the vault toilets and lack of on-site showers might not be for everyone, the incredible location, stunning scenery, and opportunities for adventure more than make up for it. Just remember to pack your bear spray, be prepared for unpredictable weather, and get ready to be amazed by the natural wonders of Glacier National Park.
Are there bears at Fish Creek Campground? Yes, bears are present in Glacier National Park, including the Fish Creek Campground area. Always take precautions and follow bear safety guidelines.
Ready to book your adventure? Check Fish Creek Campground availability and start planning your trip today!