Bowman Lake Review & Camping Guide | Glacier National Park

Q: Is there cell service at Bowman Lake?

No, there is no cell service at the campground.

Q: Is there potable water on site?

Potable water spigots exist, but during primitive camping season you should bring your own water.

Q: What is the maximum stay and when should I visit?

Maximum stay is 7 days; the season runs mid-May to early September, with possible shoulder-season camping contingent on conditions.

Q: What bear safety rules apply?

Bowman Lake is bear country; store food in a locked vehicle; bear boxes may be available but not at individual sites.

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Overview

About This Campground

Alright, Bowman Lake Campground sits in Glacier's North Fork—a remote, pine-filtered spot beside Bowman Lake. The drive in is a slow, dusty dirt road and trailers aren’t allowed, so bring a sturdy tent and a calm mindset. Pack it in, pack it out, and savor the peace under a big night sky.

Highlights

Site Types

Tent sites; primitive camping; not suitable for large RVs

Scenic Views

Bowman Lake shore views

Nearby Attractions

Polebridge Mercantile (~6.3 miles); West Glacier for broader services

Family Friendly

Quiet, forested setting; suitable for families that can handle primitive facilities and dirt road travel; plan for limited amenities.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-May through early September; potential for shoulder seasons depending on road/weather

Camping Tips

Arrive early—the 48 FCFS sites go fast.
Bring water—the road is slow and dusty; plan for primitive water needs.
Store food in locked vehicle; bear country etiquette applies.
No showers—pack light and plan for basic comforts.

RV Driver Intel

The Setup

Primarily back-in sites; internal roads are narrow, winding, and dirt; large RVs not suitable; use high-clearance vehicle and expect slow progress; no hookups

The Vibe

Forested wilderness campground with solitude; not a serviced resort—plan for primitive comforts

Bath & Laundry

No showers; pit toilets only; no on-site laundry

Details

Campsite Information

Total Sites: 48

RV Max Length: 21 feet max

Hookups: No hookups

Site Types

Tent sites; primitive camping; not suitable for large RVs

Each Site Includes

Fire ring
Picnic table
Tree shade
Beach access

Activities

Hiking, fishing, boating (10 HP max), canoeing, kayaking, swimming, stargazing

Amenities & Facilities

Campground Amenities

Showers: No showers
Restrooms: Pit toilets
Water: Potable water spigots available; bring water during primitive camping season
Trash: Bear-proof dumpsters

Facilities

RV Dump Station: No dump station
Camp Store: No
Firewood: Firewood sold by host; gathering not allowed

Utilities

Restrooms: Pit toilets

Showers: No showers

Policies & Rules

Reservations

FCFS (Booking: Not applicable)

Pet Policy

Pets Allowed - Leash rules apply; trail access unknown

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 83 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Yes, yes, yessssss! This is an absolute gem from mother nature herself. There is an abundance of wildlife, picnic area, bathrooms and a postcard panoramic view that is a must see for all. It's way out off the beaten path, but totally worth the drive up the unpaved road. Don't forget that you will NOT have cell service once you've made it to the lake.

I think this just might have been my favorite lake view in the park. The surrounding facilities were well maintained, even after the close for the season. Campground and picnic area... as well as a boat launch. They even had a large fire pit.

A little out of the way but totally worth it. This is a part of Glacier that you must see for yourself. Pristine mountain lake with no development around it. Truly God's country.

Showing 3 of 83 reviews

FAQs

Are trailers allowed at Bowman Lake Campground?

Trailers are not permitted; vehicles over 21 feet are prohibited.

Is there cell service at Bowman Lake?

Is there potable water on site?

What is the maximum stay and when should I visit?

What bear safety rules apply?

📖 nps.gov 📖 allglacier.com 📖 recreation.gov 📖 thedyrt.com 📖 quirkytravelguy.com 📖 visitmt.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 hipcamp.com 📖 themandagies.com 📖 glacier-national-park-travel-guide.com 📖 gregdisch.com 📖 rome2rio.com 📖 wikipedia.org ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Bowman Lake