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Glacier Campground Reservations: New System & 2026 Dates

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 8:17 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Understanding the New Reservation System & Dates

For years, obtaining campground reservations at Glacier has been a somewhat frantic process. The park's popularity combined with a limited number of campsites guarantees a rush when reservations become available. The transition to Recreation.gov, while aiming to streamline the process, requires users to familiarize themselves with the new platform and understand the staggered reservation release schedule.

The National Park Service has released the dates for the 2026 reservation windows. Unlike previous years where all campgrounds might have opened on a single date, Glacier is now releasing reservations in phases, categorized by campground location. This aims to ease the server load and provide a more organized experience, but it also means visitors need to carefully track which dates pertain to the campgrounds they desire.

Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the reservation release dates for 2026:

• March 5, 2025: The initial wave of reservations opens for popular campgrounds including Apgar, Fish Creek, Many Glacier, and Rising Sun. These locations are known for their accessibility and stunning views, making them prime targets for early booking.
• March 12, 2025: St. Mary Campground reservations become available. St. Mary offers a unique and scenic experience on the eastern side of the park.
• March 19, 2025: Sprague Creek Campground becomes available. Located near Lake McDonald, this campground provides access to many trails.
• April 2, 2025: Campers seeking solitude and more remote experiences can target the opening for Kintla Lake and Logger's Campground on this date.
• April 9, 2025: Reservations for Two Medicine Campground, situated in the Two Medicine Valley, will be released.

Essential Preparation: Recreation.gov Account & Timing

Before the first reservation window opens on March 5th, 2025, it is absolutely crucial to create an account on Recreation.gov. This is non-negotiable. The system is designed for efficiency, and those without accounts will be significantly disadvantaged. Account creation and familiarization with the platform are essential for maximizing your chances of securing a desired campsite. The Park Service anticipates high demand, so readiness is paramount.

Be online and logged in before the scheduled reservation time. Have alternative campground choices in mind, as your first preference might already be booked. A little research beforehand - knowing the campground layout, amenities, and surrounding trails - can help you make a quick and informed decision.

Responsible Recreation & Leave No Trace

Glacier National Park's popularity brings significant benefits, but also challenges. Crowding can negatively impact the park's fragile ecosystem and diminish the experience for all visitors. The National Park Service strongly encourages all visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles - minimizing impact on the environment, respecting wildlife, and leaving the park as you found it. This includes properly disposing of waste, staying on marked trails, and being mindful of noise levels.

For further information on Glacier National Park, including Leave No Trace guidelines, visit the official National Park Service website: [ nps.gov ]. Planning ahead, respecting the park's resources, and following reservation guidelines will contribute to a memorable and sustainable Glacier National Park experience for everyone.