Upper Park Creek Campground

For those of us living in Montana, the allure of Glacier National Park is undeniable. It's a place where majestic mountains meet pristine wilderness, offering endless opportunities for exploration and solitude. Upper Park Creek Campground, nestled within this iconic landscape near West Glacier, MT, is a prime example of a true backcountry destination that promises an authentic and unforgettable experience. This isn't a place for casual drive-up camping; it's a reward for those who are willing to lace up their boots and journey deep into the park's wild heart.

Upper Park Creek Campground is designed for the serious hiker and backpacker seeking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Montana. Situated along the expansive Park Creek Drainage, this campground provides a quiet, primitive base camp from which to explore deep valleys, marvel at towering peaks, and connect with nature on a profound level. While reviews might not be as numerous as more accessible sites, the very nature of Upper Park Creek implies a unique and highly sought-after experience by those who understand and appreciate the true wilderness of Glacier National Park. It's a testament to the untamed spirit of Montana, inviting you to discover hidden gems and create memories that only a true backcountry adventure can provide.

Upper Park Creek Campground is located near West Glacier, MT 59936, USA, deep within Glacier National Park. As a backcountry wilderness campsite, it is not accessible by vehicle. Reaching Upper Park Creek requires a significant hike, making it a destination reserved for experienced backpackers and those prepared for a multi-day wilderness journey.

The campground is found along the extensive Park Creek Trail, which extends northward from the Walton Ranger Station complex on US Highway 2 at the southernmost extremity of the Park. This trail works its way southward down the Park Creek Valley, with Park Creek paralleling the trail. A common way to access the Park Creek drainage and eventually the Upper Park Creek Campground is from Essex, MT, crossing a large footbridge into Glacier National Park and following the South Boundary Trail. Hikers then make their way northwest along the steep slopes of Scalplock Mountain before turning onto the Park Creek drainage. The journey itself is a highlight, leading through long, deep, glacially formed valleys that provide amazing views of surrounding peaks like Statuary Peak, a beacon towards the end of the valley. For those willing to make the trek, the reward is a secluded and pristine camping experience within one of the world's most spectacular national parks. It's crucial for visitors to plan their route carefully, secure necessary permits, and be fully prepared for backcountry conditions, as this is an immersive wilderness experience.

• Designated Campsites: Upper Park Creek Campground offers established, designated campsites within a primitive, wilderness setting. These sites are designed for low-impact camping.
• Wilderness Use Permits: A wilderness use permit is mandatory for all overnight camping at Upper Park Creek. These permits must be obtained in advance and specify the dates, locations, and party size.
• Basic Sanitary Facilities: As is typical for backcountry sites, basic pit toilets (outhouse-style) are generally available for waste disposal to help maintain the cleanliness and health of the natural environment.
• Food Storage: Regulations for bear-safe food storage are strictly enforced. Campers are required to properly store all food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or use provided food hanging poles (bear poles), if available at the specific site.
• Natural Water Source: Campers will have access to natural water sources, such as Park Creek, for filtering or treating drinking water. It is essential to bring a reliable water filter or purification method.
• Leave No Trace Education: The operation of backcountry campgrounds like Upper Park Creek heavily emphasizes Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, encouraging campers to minimize their impact on the environment.

• Deep Wilderness Immersion: Upper Park Creek offers an authentic and profound wilderness experience, far removed from the more developed areas of Glacier National Park. It's ideal for those seeking true solitude.
• Spectacular Mountain Views: The campground is set within a long, glacially formed valley, providing breathtaking views of towering peaks that line the drainage, including landmarks like Statuary Peak.
• Access to Lake Isabel: From Upper Park Creek, a side trip to Lake Isabel is possible. This stunning, steeply-walled mountain cirque offers further exploration and potential for casting a fly for trout in its glacially-fed waters.
• Extensive Trail System: The campground is a key point along the larger Park Creek Trail, which itself connects to other significant trails, offering opportunities for extended multi-day backpacking itineraries.
• Quiet and Private Sites: Due to its backcountry nature and the effort required to reach it, Upper Park Creek provides a high degree of privacy and quiet, allowing campers to fully appreciate the natural soundscape.
• Diverse Ecosystem: The surrounding area features forested terrain, diverse flora, and the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, including potential for birdwatching.
• Challenging and Rewarding Hike: The journey to the campground, potentially involving river crossings (like the Middle Fork Flathead River), is an adventure in itself, adding to the sense of accomplishment upon arrival.

Address: West Glacier, MT 59936, USA

Phone: (406) 888-7895

Mobile Phone: +1 406-888-7895

Please note: The phone numbers provided are typically for the general Glacier National Park information line or ranger stations. For specific details regarding Upper Park Creek Campground, including backcountry permits, current trail conditions, and regulations, it is essential to consult the official Glacier National Park website or contact their backcountry permit office directly. Reservations for backcountry sites are often highly competitive and require advance planning.

For us Montanans, Upper Park Creek Campground embodies the very essence of what makes living in Big Sky Country so special: unparalleled access to profound wilderness. We know that the true gems of Glacier National Park often lie beyond the paved roads, and Upper Park Creek is a shining example of such a place. It's a destination for those who seek not just a campsite, but a genuine adventure, a place where the effort of the journey is richly rewarded by stunning solitude and magnificent landscapes.

This campground is ideally suited for locals who appreciate the challenge and tranquility of backcountry camping. The opportunity to hike through long, glacially carved valleys, surrounded by towering peaks, and to set up camp by the peaceful Park Creek, is an experience that resonates deeply with our love for the outdoors. The prospect of a side trip to the pristine Lake Isabel, tucked away in its dramatic cirque, adds another layer of exploration that only a remote location like this can offer.

We understand the importance of places where privacy is guaranteed and the only sounds are those of nature. Upper Park Creek provides that invaluable escape, allowing for a complete disconnect from the stresses of modern life. Furthermore, navigating the permit system and adhering to Leave No Trace principles aligns with our shared commitment to preserving Montana’s wild places for future generations. For the serious hiker, the avid backpacker, or anyone yearning for an authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding experience in the heart of Glacier National Park, Upper Park Creek Campground is an absolute must-visit. It's a place where Montana's wild spirit can be truly felt, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Upper Park Creek Campground

West Glacier, MT 59936, USA