Glen Campground

For Montanans seeking a true escape into the state’s legendary natural beauty, Glen Campground in Glen, MT, offers an idyllic and accessible retreat. Nestled on state land and providing direct access to the renowned Big Hole River, this campground is a local favorite for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and fantastic recreational opportunities, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. It embodies the essence of Montana's vast, open spaces and the quiet peace that makes our state so special.

Glen Campground offers a genuine, no-frills camping experience that resonates with those who appreciate simplicity and nature. As one satisfied visitor eloquently put it, "Beautiful, just absolutely beautiful country out in Montana. This was one of many places we stopped at in Montana and we were just enthralled at the natural surroundings and isolated peacefulness." This sentiment perfectly captures the allure of Glen Campground – a place where the grandeur of Montana’s landscape takes center stage, and the stresses of daily life simply melt away.

What’s particularly convenient for locals is the ease of access and the straightforward permit process. "State land, permit needed. Easy to buy online when you arrive (T-Mobile 5g all bars--great service!) for $10, which is good all year," noted a recent camper. This modern convenience, coupled with reliable cell service, makes it incredibly simple to secure your spot and start enjoying your adventure without unnecessary hurdles. The $10 annual permit is a fantastic value for repeated visits throughout the year, encouraging Montanans to return often.

The campground itself is thoughtfully laid out with "Designated spots with picnic table and firepit," providing essential amenities for comfortable camping. Its prime location "On the Big Hole River (about a 1 minute walk from camp site)" is a massive draw, especially for anglers. The Big Hole River is famous for its fly fishing, attracting "Lots of fishermen who are mostly here for the day." Whether you’re casting a line or simply enjoying the calming sounds of the river, its proximity adds significantly to the campground's appeal.

Accessibility, even for larger vehicles, is another positive aspect. While it's "About a mile off paved road. A bit bumpy, but drivable (I have a 2001 class C...no issues)," visitors confirm that the journey is manageable. This balance of being slightly off the beaten path while remaining easily reachable allows Glen Campground to offer a sense of seclusion without being overly remote. It’s a testament to the fact that you don't need to travel far to find a truly immersive outdoor experience in Montana.

As one family summarized their experience, "We just walked around a lot and took in the sites and had a very good camping day here as a family on our big Montana road trip." This highlights its versatility as both a destination in itself and a convenient stop on a broader exploration of Montana. Glen Campground truly embodies the spirit of accessible wilderness, offering peacefulness, stunning views, and ample opportunities for outdoor fun right here in our incredible state.

Glen Campground is uniquely situated in Glen, MT 59732, USA. This location places it in the scenic southwestern region of Montana, a stone's throw from the renowned Big Hole River. While the "town itself is basically non-existent," as one reviewer points out, this contributes to the campground's appeal as a true escape into nature. Its geographical position is advantageous for both local residents and those traveling through Montana, as it's not far from Interstate 15, a major north-south corridor.

Access to Glen Campground involves a short, manageable drive off the main paved roads. Visitors should expect to travel "About a mile off paved road," which, while described as "a bit bumpy," is generally "drivable" for various vehicle types, including Class C RVs, as attested by a previous camper. This slightly unpaved approach adds to the feeling of stepping away from civilization and into the tranquil embrace of the Montana landscape.

Despite its secluded feel, the campground benefits from surprisingly robust connectivity for modern convenience. The availability of "T-Mobile 5g all bars--great service!" for online permit purchases is a notable advantage, bridging the gap between wilderness immersion and practical necessities. This ensures that essential tasks, like permit acquisition, can be handled easily upon arrival.

The proximity to the Big Hole River is a key element of its accessibility, allowing for direct and convenient access for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the riverside environment. Its location also serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader southwest Montana region, known for its vast ranchlands, mountain ranges, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. For Montanans, it represents a readily available haven where the state's iconic landscapes are easily within reach.

• Designated Campsites: Glen Campground offers clearly marked, designated spots for camping. These sites are well-maintained to provide a comfortable base for your stay.

• Picnic Tables: Each designated campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for outdoor dining, meal preparation, and gathering.

• Fire Pits: Individual fire pits are available at each site, allowing campers to have campfires for cooking, warmth, and ambiance (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).

• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are provided in the form of vault toilets. These are primitive, non-flush toilets, ensuring essential sanitation.

• State Land Permit: A permit is required for camping, which is easy to purchase online upon arrival. This permit is typically good for a full year for use on state lands, offering excellent value for frequent visitors.

• No Potable Water: Visitors should be aware that potable (drinkable) water is not typically available at Glen Campground. Campers must bring their own supply of drinking water.

• No Trash Service (Pack It In, Pack It Out): As is common in many state land or primitive campgrounds, there are no trash bins. Campers are expected to adhere to the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" principle, meaning all garbage and waste must be carried out of the campground.

• Free Camping (with permit): While a permit is required, the camping itself is often described as "free established camping" on government land, making it a very affordable option for overnight stays.

• Stay Limit: There is a maximum stay limit of 7 days, allowing for extended but regulated visits.

• Pets Allowed: Pets are generally allowed, making it a great option for those traveling with their furry companions (always keep pets under control and adhere to any posted rules).

• Direct Big Hole River Access: A major highlight is the campground's immediate proximity to the Big Hole River, often described as just "a 1 minute walk from camp site." This provides unparalleled access for fishing, particularly fly fishing, for which the river is world-renowned.

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The campground is set in "absolutely beautiful country," offering breathtaking natural surroundings, from wide-open skies to the tranquil riverside environment, characteristic of southwest Montana.

• Isolated Peacefulnes: Despite its accessibility, Glen Campground offers a significant degree of "isolated peacefulness," making it an ideal retreat for those seeking quiet and solitude away from crowded areas.

• Easy Online Permit Acquisition: The modern convenience of being able to buy the required state land permit online upon arrival, coupled with good T-Mobile 5G service, streamlines the entry process and is a huge plus for spontaneous trips.

• Affordable Long-Term Value: The $10 annual permit, which covers state land access for an entire year, makes Glen Campground a highly cost-effective option for Montanans who plan multiple outdoor trips.

• Family-Friendly for Outdoor Activities: As noted by a family, it's a great place to "walk around a lot and take in the sites," fostering a simple, enjoyable outdoor day perfect for family bonding.

• Prime Fishing Destination: Given its location directly on the Big Hole River, it's a premier spot for anglers. The river is famous for trout, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout, as well as Arctic grayling.

• Rustic Charm: The campground provides essential amenities like picnic tables and fire pits without being over-developed, offering an authentic, comfortable, yet primitive camping experience.

Address: Glen, MT 59732, USA

While a direct phone number for Glen Campground itself may not be consistently available, general inquiries for state land fishing access sites in Montana can often be directed to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Region 3 in Bozeman:

Phone: (406) 994-4042 (FWP Region 3 Headquarters)

For specific permit information or current conditions, it's advisable to check the Montana FWP website (fwp.mt.gov) or utilize the online permit system directly. They are the governing body for state land recreational use permits.

Glen Campground is an exceptional destination perfectly tailored for Montana locals seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience. Its location in Glen, right on the Big Hole River, places it within reach of many communities across the state, particularly those in southwestern Montana. For residents, this campground offers an ideal blend of stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a peaceful escape without the complications often associated with more developed or remote destinations.

The primary appeal for Montanans lies in its inherent "isolated peacefulness" and the genuine wilderness feel it provides. In a state known for its vast landscapes, Glen Campground delivers on the promise of quiet solitude, allowing locals to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The convenience of acquiring an annual state land permit online for just $10, combined with reliable T-Mobile 5G service, makes spontaneous trips and frequent visits incredibly easy and affordable – a significant benefit for residents who want to maximize their time outdoors throughout the year.

Moreover, the campground's direct access to the Big Hole River is a huge draw, especially for Montana's avid fishing community. Whether you're a seasoned fly fisherman or looking to introduce your family to the joys of riverside recreation, the world-class fishing opportunities here are unparalleled. The simple yet functional amenities like designated spots, picnic tables, and fire pits ensure a comfortable stay, while the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" ethos aligns with the responsible outdoor stewardship often practiced by Montanans.

Glen Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a gateway to experiencing the best of Montana's "beautiful country." It offers a perfect balance of being off the beaten path while remaining easily accessible, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer family adventure. For Montanans, it embodies the spirit of our state: rugged beauty, peaceful solitude, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, all within a welcoming and easily managed setting.

Glen Campground

Glen, MT 59732, USA