Details
West Glacier, MT, 59936
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 26, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Kintla Lake Campground is Glacier National Park's most remote frontcountry and car camping campground. It is located in the uppermost northwest section of the park known as the North Fork, approximately 40 miles from the west entrance. Access is via a rough dirt road. Trailers not permitted. Due to its remote location, the campground is very quiet and rarely fills, offering tent campers a sense of solitude. The campground sits on Kintla Lake.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Kintla's summer season is typically late May to early September. Weather dependent, there is a primitive camping season from early September to the end of October.
Weather
Glacier's weather is highly variable and can be extreme. Warm days and cool nights are the norm in summer. Even when it's in the 80s and 90s in the daytime it can cool down into the 40s at night. Hikers setting out on a warm summer day, should still bring along rain gear and lots of extra clothing. Dressing in layers is key to a comfortable visit all year long.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Dump Station
Staff or Host On-Site
Potable Water
Food Storage Lockers
Directions
It is located in the upper most northwest section of the park known as the North Fork, approximately 40 miles from the west entrance and the Canadian border. Though the drive is very slow and bumpy on dirt roads, the drive is pleasant. Part of this drive takes you through the tiny community of Polebridge. Kintla Lake is about 14.3 miles from Polebridge.
Rates & Fees
Kintla Lake summer status
Campsite capacity is limited to eight people and two vehicles, where space is available. A maximum of two tents per site is permitted. A hand pump is available for potable water, and pit toilets are located in the campground as well.
Kintla Lake primitive status
Campsite capacity is limited to eight people and two vehicles, where space is available. A maximum of two tents per site is permitted. Primitive camping is available, depending on weather and road conditions. During primitive camping season there is no water available and campers are advised to bring their own drinking water.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Picnic tables and fire rings provided.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
1 campsite (#13)
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
RVs and truck and trailer combinations are not permitted at Kintla Lake due to the nature of the long, narrow, and windy dirt road to the campground.
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
Motorcraft are not allowed on Kintla Lake, making for a quiet canoe or kayak experience. A boat inspection for Aquatic Invasive Species is required prior to launch (the nearest site is at the Polebridge Ranger Station). Fisherman will also enjoy Kintla Lake for the trout found in it. If you like to hike, don't forget to pack your boots, as day hikes and extended trips into the backcountry can be found near the campground.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
Pit toilets are located in the campground however they are not fully accessible.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - All vehicles OK in good weather
Classifications
Limited Development Campground
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