About Apgar Campground
Overview Apgar campground is the largest campground in the park. It is situated in trees and provides tent and RV campers with shade and some privacy. Evening sunsets on Lake McDonald are only a short stroll, and you won't want to miss evening programs with a ranger at the Apgar Amphitheater. Many trails are located within a short drive of the campground. Five Group Sites are reservable in advance.All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window.Hiker/Bicyclist sites A10, C144, and C146 are available through the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay system. In order to use these sites, visitors must download the Recreation.gov Application before arriving. At the Hiker/Bicyclist sites, simply scan the QR code posted onsite to follow prompts and complete payment. Additional instructions are provided onsite in Apgar Campground. Recreation This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility. Facilities The campground is large with 194 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 Apgar is heavily forested with partial 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-Glacie
How to Get There
Apgar Campground has multiple entry points on the east and west side of the park. West Side Entrance West Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of West Glacier (approximately 33 miles (53 km) from Kalispell). West Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 2 west to the town of West Glacier. East Side Entrance St. Mary Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of Browning (approx. 83 miles/134 km). At the traffic circle, exit onto Hwy 89 north and continue for another 30 miles (48 km). Follow the signage to the St. Mary Visitor Center / Going-to-the-Sun Road. St. Mary Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 89 north to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Apgar Campground
Heading to Apgar Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Apgar Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Apgar Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10171274) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Apgar Campground?
Apgar Campground has multiple entry points on the east and west side of the park. West Side Entrance West Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of West Glacier (approximately 33 miles (53 km) from Kalispell). West Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 2 west to the town of West Glacier. East Side Entrance St. Mary Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to th…
How do I contact Apgar Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-888-7800 or email: NA.
References & Official Resources