West Glacier, MT

Fish Creek Campground

Availability

Each day shows how many of this campground’s sites are open.

About this spot

Overview

Fish Creek Campground is the second largest campground in Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana, is comprised of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles (1,125 km) of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in its natural beauty. The campground is located on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1,066 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90°F (32°C), although it is frequently 10° to 15° F cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer; visitors should come prepared for anything. All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window.

Recreation

This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

Facilities

The campground is large with 178 campsites. The sites are relatively spread apart and provide privacy for both RV and tent campers. Potable water is accessible in the campground, and restroom facilities have flush toilets and sinks with running water.

Natural Features

Fish Creek is heavily forested with plenty of shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles.

Nearby Attractions

One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton. Waterton Lakes National Park

Typical weather

Lake McDonald

Average water temperature
Average water temperature for Lake McDonald, January through DecemberEach point shows the monthly average water temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.35°JJanuary: average water temperature 35°F37°FFebruary: average water temperature 37°F39°MMarch: average water temperature 39°F41°AApril: average water temperature 41°F44°MMay: average water temperature 44°F49°JJune: average water temperature 49°F54°JJuly: average water temperature 54°F59°AAugust: average water temperature 59°F51°SSeptember: average water temperature 51°F47°OOctober: average water temperature 47°F42°NNovember: average water temperature 42°F36°DDecember: average water temperature 36°F

Water: Water Quality Portal — 79 field-sample stations

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