State: Montana
Short Name: Bowman Lake Campground
Address 1: Glacier National Park
Open: Seasonal
Number of Sites: 48
Camp URL: http://home.nps.gov/applications/glac/cgstatus/camping_detail.cfm?cg=Bowman%20Lake
Full Hook: Yes
National Park: 148
Bowman Lake Campground
Bowman Lake campground is located in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park approximately 32.5 miles from the west entrance, and 30 miles from the Canadian border. The drive to Bowman Lake is a very slow, dusty, and bumpy ride on dirt roads, and passes through the tiny community of Polebridge and sections of the park that notably burned in 1988.
Mountains tower over pristine Bowman Lake. The campground is located close to the shore and camp sites are within trees for shade and some privacy. Tent campers looking for peace and quiet will enjoy Bowman Lake for it’s serenity and remote location. Be sure to pack bug repellent or headnets though, as mosquitoes often take residence at Bowman Lake. Potable water is available through water spigots in the campground, and there are pit toilets nearby. A picnic area provides day use visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful lunch, and there are day hiking opportunities near Bowman Lake for hikers eager to experience Glacier’s wilderness. Fisherman, canoers, and kayakers will enjoy the recreational opportunities Bowman Lake offers. Motorized vessels are allowed on Bowman Lake, but are limited to 10 horsepower or less.
Limited amenities can be found in Polebridge.
RVs and truck and trailer combinations are not recommended at Bowman Lake due to the nature of the long, narrow, and windy dirt road to the campground. Turning vehicles around (3-point turns) is difficult.
Sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Primitive camping is available, depending on weather and road conditions, prior to May 23 and after September 15. Primitive camping is $10.00 per night. During primitive camping season there is no water available and campers are advised to bring their own drinking water.
Dates of Operation
Summer 5/22 – 9/13
Primitive 5/10 – 5/21; 9/13 – 12/1
Additional Information
Summer Fee $15.00 / night
Number of Sites 48*
Flush Toilets No
Showers No
Disposal Station No
Reservations No
*RVs and truck and trailer combinations are not recommended.
-NPS.gov