Mokowanis Lakes Campground

For those of us who call Montana home, there's a deep-seated appreciation for true wilderness, for places where the hum of everyday life fades into the whispers of the wind through ancient trees. Glacier National Park, our magnificent backyard, offers countless opportunities to connect with nature, but some experiences stand out even within this breathtaking landscape. Mokowanis Lakes Campground is one such place—a legendary backcountry gem that, as one local put it, "takes the cake" as the best campsite in Montana. This isn't your average drive-up RV park; it's a destination for the dedicated, the adventurous, and those seeking an unadulterated immersion in the heart of Glacier's pristine environment.

Mokowanis Lakes Campground represents the epitome of backcountry camping in Montana. It's a place where solitude is not just a possibility, but a given, with only two designated campsites available. This exclusivity ensures that your experience will be intimate and profoundly connected to the wild. Imagine waking up to the sounds of a untouched wilderness, with the crystal-clear waters of Mokowanis Lake at your doorstep and the majestic peaks of Glacier National Park rising around you. It's an opportunity to truly disconnect, to challenge yourself, and to discover the profound beauty that lies beyond the paved roads and bustling visitor centers.

This campground isn't just a place to sleep; it's a basecamp for exploration. The surrounding area promises hidden wonders, including a "hidden dayhike...to beautiful waterfalls," hinting at the kind of unexpected natural treasures that await those willing to venture off the beaten path. However, as with all true wilderness, it comes with the responsibility of preparedness and respect for its inhabitants, especially our resident wildlife, as evidenced by the "Black bears doing black bear things" in late August. For Montanans who understand and embrace the rhythm of the wild, Mokowanis Lakes Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Glacier National Park in its most authentic, unforgettable form.

Mokowanis Lakes Campground is located within the vast expanse of Glacier National Park, with its address typically listed as Browning, MT 59417, USA. However, it is crucial for Montanans planning a trip to understand that this is a wilderness, hike-in campground. There is no direct vehicle access to Mokowanis Lakes Campground. Browning is simply the nearest postal address for the eastern side of Glacier National Park where the trailheads for this area are found.

Access to Mokowanis Lakes Campground is achieved via a significant backcountry hike, typically from the Many Glacier area or potentially other distant trailheads within the park. One common approach is via the Belly River Trail, often beginning from the Chief Mountain International Highway, which requires considerable planning and preparedness. The hike to Mokowanis Lake itself involves traversing through diverse terrain, including dense forests and potentially crossing rivers, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. It's important to note that the review mentions "upper Kintla was my favorite but this one takes the cake," implying that Kintla Lake (on the park's west side) is another remote, but perhaps slightly more accessible, comparison point for wilderness campers.

Due to its remote location, Mokowanis Lakes Campground is completely off-grid. There is no cell phone reception, internet connectivity, or developed facilities. This lack of modern amenities is precisely what draws many seasoned Montanan backpackers, allowing for a genuine disconnection and immersion in nature. All visitors must obtain a wilderness use permit from Glacier National Park in advance for overnight stays, and these permits are strictly enforced for specific dates, locations, and party sizes. This ensures the preservation of the delicate ecosystem and a quality experience for all. Hikers must be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary supplies, including water filtration systems, and be prepared for variable weather conditions and encounters with wildlife.

Services Offered (As a wilderness campground, amenities are limited and geared towards essential backcountry needs):

• Two Designated Wilderness Campsites: Ensures a low-impact and secluded camping experience.
• Bear Hang & Food Prep Area: Dedicated facilities on the lakeshore for safe food storage, crucial in bear country.
• Vault Toilets: Primitive toilet facilities are typically provided to minimize human impact.
• Water Access from Lake/Creek: Campers can obtain water from Mokowanis Lake or nearby creeks, requiring filtration or treatment.
• Wilderness Permit System: Manages visitor numbers to protect the natural environment and enhance the quality of the wilderness experience.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Seclusion: With only two campsites, this is one of the most private and tranquil camping experiences in Glacier National Park.
• "Best Campsite in Montana": A strong endorsement from a real customer, highlighting its superior quality among wilderness sites.
• Stunning Lake Shore Setting: Campsites are located by the beautiful Mokowanis Lake, offering picturesque views and serene ambiance.
• Hidden Dayhike to Beautiful Waterfalls: A unique and rewarding side adventure accessible from the campground, adding to the exploration opportunities.
• Dense Thimbleberry Thicket: While potentially challenging for navigation, this indicates a rich, natural environment and a food source for wildlife.
• Opportunity for Black Bear Sightings: The presence of black bears (and potentially grizzlies, common in Glacier) underscores the authentic wilderness experience, requiring strict adherence to bear safety protocols.
• Food Storage Infrastructure: The provision of a bear hang and food prep area on the lakeshore is a critical safety feature for campers.
• Immersive Wilderness Experience: Offers a true escape from civilization, with no modern distractions, fostering a deep connection with nature.
• Backcountry Challenge: The significant hike required to reach the campground provides a rewarding physical challenge for experienced backpackers.

Contact Information:

Address: Browning, MT 59417, USA (Please remember this is a wilderness campground within Glacier National Park, requiring a significant hike for access. The Browning address is for general park reference.)

For inquiries regarding wilderness permits, trail conditions, and backcountry safety within Glacier National Park, it is essential to contact the National Park Service directly or visit their official online resources:

Glacier National Park General Information Phone: 406-888-7800

For wilderness permit reservations and detailed backcountry planning, utilize the official Glacier National Park website and Recreation.gov, where permits are managed.

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 128, West Glacier, MT 59936 (This is the general park mailing address, not a direct contact for the campground itself).

For Montanans, Mokowanis Lakes Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's an invitation to experience the very essence of our wild state. We pride ourselves on our rugged landscapes and the opportunities they provide for true adventure, and Mokowanis Lakes delivers precisely that. This is the kind of place that sets Montana apart—remote, challenging, and profoundly rewarding.

The fact that it's praised as the "Best campsite in Montana" by a local review speaks volumes. It’s not about convenience or amenities, but about the unparalleled natural beauty and the sheer sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching such a pristine location. The two-site limit ensures a level of solitude that is increasingly rare, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of Glacier’s untouched wilderness.

While the mention of "Dense thimbleberry thicket" and "Black bears doing black bear things" might sound daunting to some, for seasoned Montanan outdoor enthusiasts, it’s simply part of the authentic wilderness experience. We understand the importance of bear safety and Leave No Trace principles, and these elements only reinforce the wild, untamed nature of the area. The allure of a "hidden dayhike in the morning to beautiful waterfalls" adds a layer of discovery that makes the effort of reaching this campsite even more worthwhile.

Ultimately, Mokowanis Lakes Campground is suitable for locals because it embodies the adventurous spirit that defines Montana. It offers a unique opportunity to push your limits, to witness breathtaking beauty away from the crowds, and to reconnect with the raw, untamed heart of Glacier National Park. It’s a testament to the wild places that still exist in our state, waiting to be explored by those who truly appreciate their grandeur and quiet majesty.

Mokowanis Lakes Campground

Browning, MT 59417, USA