Lincoln Lake Campground

For Montanans who are drawn to the wild, untamed heart of our state, Lincoln Lake Campground within Glacier National Park represents a quintessential backcountry experience. This isn't a place you drive to; it's a destination earned through a hike, offering a profound sense of accomplishment and unparalleled immersion in nature. We Montanans often seek those less-traveled paths, and Lincoln Lake provides just that – a chance to connect with the raw beauty of "Big Sky Country" far from the crowds.

Glacier National Park is a treasure, and its backcountry areas offer a depth of experience that goes beyond the roadside views. Lincoln Lake Campground, with its unique landscape shaped by past wildfires and surrounded by stunning vistas, promises a memorable adventure for those prepared for true wilderness conditions. If you're an experienced hiker, ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of a remote camping trip, and eager to witness some of Montana's most amazing scenery, then this hidden gem is calling your name. It's an opportunity to see a different side of Glacier, fostering a deeper appreciation for its resilience and majesty.

Lincoln Lake Campground is located within Glacier National Park, near West Glacier, MT 59936, USA. It is critically important to understand that this is a backcountry campground, meaning it is only accessible by foot via hiking trails. A wilderness permit from Glacier National Park is required for overnight stays, and these permits are highly sought after.

Access to Lincoln Lake Campground typically involves hiking the Lincoln Lake Trail. One review describes this as a "very hilly hike up regardless of where you're coming from," indicating a challenging ascent. The trail itself passes through diverse landscapes, including "woodlands that had burned down back in 2017," which offers a unique perspective on forest regeneration and provides "nice views of the surrounding hillsides and impressive mountains particularly at the head of the drainage." The trail also involves fording Lincoln Creek three times. Hikers should be prepared for varying trail conditions, including potentially "downed trees and some erosion from banks," as this trail might not be as frequently maintained as some of the more popular routes. The journey is part of the experience, offering "amazing vistas" that can be "reasonably done in a few hours" for a day hike, but requiring more substantial planning for an overnight stay with camping gear. Trailheads for Lincoln Lake can be accessed from the West Glacier area, often linking from the South Boundary Trail or via the Lincoln Lake Trailhead along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Always consult official Glacier National Park maps and current trail status reports for the most up-to-date information on routes, mileage, and conditions.

As a remote backcountry campground in Glacier National Park, Lincoln Lake Campground offers very basic, primitive services. Campers must be fully self-sufficient and adhere to strict Leave No Trace principles.

• Campsites: These are designated, primitive tent pads or areas designed to minimize impact on the environment. While the area can be "quite rocky," each designated site is likely flattened to provide a suitable sleeping surface, as noted for similar backcountry campgrounds.

• Food Storage: In active bear country like Glacier National Park, proper food storage is paramount. The park typically provides communal "food poles" or cables for hanging food bags, or bear boxes at some sites. Campers must bring their own sturdy bear bags and adequate rope to securely hang all food, garbage, and scented items away from bears. It's imperative to store anything with an odor, including toiletries and cooking gear.

• Pit Toilet: Basic pit toilets (outhouses) are usually available at designated backcountry campsites. These are rustic, non-flush facilities. Campers should bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

• Water Source: Water is available from Lincoln Lake or Lincoln Creek. However, all water from natural sources must be treated (filtered, purified, or boiled) before consumption to prevent waterborne illnesses. Campers should carry reliable water treatment systems.

• No Campfires: It is highly probable that open fires are prohibited at Lincoln Lake Campground due to its backcountry location and high fire danger within Glacier National Park. Campers should plan to use a backpacking stove for all cooking. Always check current park regulations and fire restrictions.

• No Amenities: There are no developed amenities such as potable water spigots, picnic tables, electricity, cell service, or trash collection. Campers are responsible for packing out everything they pack in, including all garbage.

• Unique Burned Forest Landscape: A distinctive feature is the hike "across woodlands that had burned down back in 2017." This provides a unique and visually striking experience, showcasing the resilience of nature and offering "amazing vistas" through the more open canopy.

• Stunning Vistas and Scenery: Reviewers praise the "very beautiful hike with amazing vistas." The remote setting promises incredible views of surrounding mountains, the pristine Lincoln Lake, and a deep immersion in Glacier's iconic landscapes.

• Authentic Backcountry Experience: For those seeking genuine solitude and a true wilderness adventure, Lincoln Lake Campground delivers. It's a challenging but highly rewarding experience, far removed from the more populated areas of the park.

• Reasonably Done Day Hike Potential: While an overnight stay is ideal, the "few hours" mentioned for the hike suggests it can also be a challenging but feasible day hike destination for very fit and prepared individuals.

• Seasonal Appeal (with caveats): While beautiful, a customer noted "too many mosquitoes for me to stay for long" when visiting in July. This highlights the importance of seasonal awareness and coming prepared with insect repellent, especially in mid-summer.

• Historical Significance (as part of Glacier NP): Camping here connects you to the vast natural and geological history of Glacier National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.

• Peace and Quiet: The remote nature of this campground ensures a high degree of tranquility, allowing campers to fully appreciate the sounds of nature and the vastness of the Montana night sky.

Since Lincoln Lake Campground is a backcountry site within Glacier National Park, there is no direct phone number for the campground itself. All inquiries, particularly regarding wilderness permits, trail conditions, bear safety, and park regulations, should be directed to Glacier National Park's Wilderness Permit Office or main information line.

• Address: Lincoln Creek Trail, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA (This is the general vicinity for accessing Glacier National Park's west side. Specific trailhead and permit pickup locations should be confirmed with the park.)

• Phone: For general Glacier National Park information and backcountry permit inquiries, you can contact the park's main line at (406) 888-7895. The most reliable way to obtain a permit is often through the Recreation.gov website for advance reservations, or by visiting a Backcountry Ranger Station within the park for walk-in permits.

For us Montanans, Lincoln Lake Campground offers the kind of deep wilderness immersion that truly defines our outdoor heritage. We know that the most spectacular views often come with a challenging hike, and the journey through woodlands recovering from fire, leading to "amazing vistas," is exactly the kind of unique experience that appeals to our adventurous spirit. This isn't a place for casual visitors; it's for those of us who appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of Glacier National Park and are prepared to earn it.

The necessity of obtaining a wilderness permit and adhering to strict backcountry policies aligns perfectly with our commitment to preserving Montana's natural treasures. It ensures that this pristine environment remains protected for future generations. While the mention of "too many mosquitoes" in July is a realistic heads-up (and we Montanans are well-versed in mosquito season preparation!), it underscores the authentic wilderness experience – raw, beautiful, and sometimes challenging.

Lincoln Lake Campground is ideally suited for local seasoned hikers and backpackers seeking solitude, stunning natural beauty, and a chance to truly disconnect. It offers an intimate encounter with Glacier's iconic landscape, allowing us to witness the resilience of its forests and the grandeur of its peaks in a way that few others will. For the Montanan seeking their next profound wilderness adventure, Lincoln Lake Campground promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of our beloved Big Sky Country.

Lincoln Lake Campground

Lincoln Creek Trail, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA