Kintla Lake Head Campground

Hello, fellow Montanans! If your idea of a perfect getaway involves truly unplugging and immersing yourself in the raw, untouched beauty of our state, then Kintla Lake Head Campground in Glacier National Park is calling your name. This isn't your average crowded campground; it's a deeply remote and wonderfully serene escape, offering a genuine wilderness experience right on the shores of one of the park’s most pristine and crystal-clear lakes. For those of us who yearn for solitude and direct access to breathtaking natural wonders, Kintla Lake provides an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with the wild heart of Montana.

Kintla Lake Head Campground is renowned for its quiet ambiance and minimalist approach to camping, making it a favorite among seasoned tent campers and those seeking a more authentic backcountry feel, without requiring a multi-day backpacking trip. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the starry night sky shines with unparalleled clarity. This article is designed specifically for you, our local community, to offer a detailed look at what you can expect from a visit to Kintla Lake Head Campground, helping you prepare for an unforgettable Montana adventure in one of Glacier National Park's most secluded corners.

Kintla Lake Head Campground is situated at the very end of the road in the uppermost northwest section of Glacier National Park, specifically at Boulder Pass, Polebridge, MT 59928, USA. This location is approximately 40 miles from the park's west entrance and deep within the remote North Fork area. Accessibility to Kintla Lake is a notable aspect of its character. The journey involves driving on a long, unpaved, narrow, and often rough dirt road for about 14 miles (after the initial 25 mph dirt roads from Polebridge). While a 2WD vehicle can make the journey slowly, a sturdy vehicle, such as an SUV or one with higher clearance, is often recommended for comfort and ease, especially after heavy rains. Trailers are explicitly not permitted due to the challenging road conditions. This remote access is precisely what contributes to the campground's quiet and uncrowded nature, as it deters larger RVs and those seeking more conventional amenities. Polebridge, a charming, rustic community just outside the park, serves as the last stop for supplies, gas, and a famous huckleberry bear claw before you venture further into the North Fork. Be sure to fuel up and grab any essentials there, as services become non-existent beyond this point.

Kintla Lake Head Campground offers minimal, yet essential, services that cater to a truly rustic camping experience. It's important to set expectations for a more primitive stay, focusing on self-sufficiency and embracing the raw beauty of the wilderness.

• Basic Restrooms: The campground provides very basic pit toilets (vault toilets). There are no flush toilets or showers available on-site, emphasizing a traditional camping experience.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available via a hand pump during the summer season. However, it's wise to be prepared with your own water or filtration methods, as hand pumps can occasionally be out of service.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each of the 13 available campsites (first-come, first-served) is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and campfires (when restrictions permit).
• Food Storage: Bear-resistant food storage lockers (bear boxes) and trash cans are available, which are crucial in this area known for its bear activity. It's essential to utilize these to keep food and scented items secured.
• Camp Host: A camp host is typically present, providing on-site assistance and information, and often updating the park's website on campground availability, which can be helpful before making the long drive.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available, reinforcing the primitive nature of the campground. Campers should be prepared for dry camping.

Kintla Lake Head Campground boasts several features and highlights that make it an extraordinary destination for those who appreciate true wilderness and solitude in Montana.

• Crystal Clear Lake Access: The most celebrated feature is the campground's direct and easy access to the stunning, crystal-clear waters of Kintla Lake. This pristine lake is perfect for swimming (though the water is very cold!), kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Non-Motorized Lake: Kintla Lake is a designated "no-motors" lake, ensuring a peaceful and quiet environment for paddling and fishing. This policy significantly contributes to the serene atmosphere, making it a paddler's paradise.
• Remote and Quiet Atmosphere: Due to its remote location and challenging access road, Kintla Lake Head Campground is one of the quietest and least crowded campgrounds in Glacier National Park. It rarely fills, offering a genuine sense of solitude.
• Exceptional Fishing: The lake is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for cutthroat trout and whitefish. Anglers report eager fish due to low fishing pressure, making it a rewarding experience.
• Stunning Scenery: Surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests, the campground offers breathtaking views and a truly immersive natural setting. Filtered views of the lake and mountains are available from many sites.
• Hiking Opportunities: Numerous trails for day hikes and extended backcountry trips are accessible from the campground, including connections to the Boulder Pass Trail, catering to various hiking preferences.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote nature of the area means a higher chance of spotting diverse wildlife. Bear sightings are possible, underscoring the need for proper food storage and bear spray.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, adding to its authentic, less-commercialized appeal. This means spontaneity for locals willing to make the drive.

For inquiries about Kintla Lake Head Campground, or for general information about Glacier National Park, you can use the park's main contact number. While direct reservations for Kintla Lake Head Campground are not possible due to its first-come, first-served policy, the park service can provide valuable updates on conditions and accessibility.

Address: Boulder Pass, Polebridge, MT 59928, USA (within Glacier National Park)

Phone: (406) 888-7800

Mobile Phone: +1 406-888-7800

For us Montanans, Kintla Lake Head Campground represents the quintessential Glacier National Park experience: untamed, beautiful, and profoundly peaceful. It's a place that rewards the adventurous spirit, offering a much-needed respite from the everyday and a deep connection with the wild landscapes we cherish. While the journey to Kintla Lake is certainly part of the adventure, involving a long and sometimes challenging drive on dirt roads, the destination is undeniably worth the effort. The payoff is a truly quiet campground with direct access to a crystal-clear, non-motorized lake, perfect for paddling, fishing, and simply soaking in the magnificent mountain views. It’s a place where the lack of modern amenities becomes a highlight, encouraging a genuine return to nature. For those seeking solitude, stellar outdoor recreation, and an authentic, unvarnished piece of Montana wilderness, Kintla Lake Head Campground is an exceptional choice. It's a reminder of why we live in this incredible state, offering an escape where the stars shine brighter and the quiet of the wild envelops you completely.

Kintla Lake Head Campground

Boulder Pass, Polebridge, MT 59928, USA