Glen Campground

For Montana locals seeking an authentic, unadulterated outdoor experience, Glen Campground offers a slice of unspoiled wilderness on the banks of the legendary Big Hole River. Located in the small, unassuming community of Glen, Montana, this isn't a bustling RV park with all the bells and whistles. Instead, it embodies the true spirit of Montana camping: tranquil, naturally stunning, and deeply connected to the land. It’s a place where the sound of the river replaces city noise, and the vast Montana sky becomes your ceiling.

Glen Campground is situated on state land, making it a valuable public resource for recreation. It's designed for those who appreciate designated campsites with basic amenities, while still offering the feeling of being truly out in nature. This campground provides a perfect base for exploring the rich natural surroundings, particularly for fishing enthusiasts drawn to the Big Hole River, one of Montana’s most renowned fly-fishing destinations. It's a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its wild beauty for residents and visitors alike.

Visitors consistently praise the campground for its natural surroundings and peaceful isolation, highlighting the sheer beauty of the Montana country. While the nearest town of Glen itself is described as "basically non-existent" in terms of urban amenities, this is precisely its charm. You come to Glen Campground not for civilization, but for the profound sense of peace and the raw, untamed landscape that defines Montana. It’s an ideal spot for a family camping day, a dedicated fishing trip, or simply a quiet overnight stop on a grand Montana road trip, offering a refreshing contrast to the demands of everyday life.

Glen Campground is conveniently located in Glen, MT 59732, USA. Its address places it squarely within southwest Montana, a region celebrated for its pristine rivers and vast open spaces. The most significant aspect of its location is its direct proximity to the Big Hole River. According to visitor reviews, the campground is about a one-minute walk from the river, providing immediate access for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water.

Accessibility to Glen Campground is straightforward, even for larger vehicles. It is situated about a mile off a paved road, accessible via a dirt road. While this unpaved section might be a bit bumpy, as noted by a Class C RV owner who reported no issues, it is entirely drivable for a variety of vehicles, including larger rigs. This balance of being close enough to main routes for relatively easy access, yet far enough to feel secluded, is a key draw for many campers.

For those relying on cellular service, it's a pleasant surprise to find that T-Mobile offers strong 5G service with full bars at the campground. This modern convenience allows for easy online permit purchases upon arrival and maintains a connection with the outside world if desired, while still preserving the remote feel of the area. This blend of accessibility and a wild setting makes Glen Campground a practical yet deeply immersive outdoor destination for Montanans.

• Designated Campsites: Glen Campground offers designated camping spots, ensuring a structured yet spacious camping experience. These sites are typically well-maintained and provide clear areas for setting up camp.

• Picnic Tables: Each designated campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, or simply relaxing outdoors.

• Fire Pits: Campers will find designated fire pits at each site, allowing for safe and enjoyable campfires. This is perfect for cooking, warmth, and the classic camping ambiance, assuming no fire restrictions are in place.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, offering a basic but essential restroom facility for campers.

• State Land Permit System: As a state land campground, a permit is required for use. This permit is easily purchasable online upon arrival, costing around $10 and valid for the entire year, which is a significant convenience for frequent visitors.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Campsites at Glen Campground generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are typically taken. This allows for spontaneous trips but suggests arriving earlier during peak season to secure a spot.

• No Potable Water: Visitors should be prepared to bring their own drinking water, as potable water is not typically available directly at the campsites. This is common for more primitive state land campgrounds.

• No Trash Bins: Campers are required to "pack it in, pack it out," meaning all trash must be carried out of the campground. This helps maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty of the area.

• No Electrical Hook-ups: Reflecting its primitive nature, Glen Campground does not offer electrical hook-ups for RVs or other camping units.

• 7-Day Stay Limit: There is generally a maximum stay limit of 7 days at the campground.

• Direct Big Hole River Access: The most significant highlight is its immediate proximity to the Big Hole River, one of Montana’s premier blue-ribbon trout streams. Campers are just a minute's walk from excellent fishing and river recreation.

• Authentic Montana Wilderness Experience: The campground offers a truly isolated and peaceful setting, surrounded by "absolutely beautiful country" and natural surroundings. This provides a genuine escape from urban life and a deep immersion in Montana's landscape.

• Affordable and Accessible Permit: The requirement of a $10 annual permit, easily purchased online, makes this a very cost-effective and convenient option for frequent campers and locals, allowing access to state land for an entire year.

• Suitable for Various Camping Styles: With designated spots that accommodate both tents and RVs (within size limits), and clear areas with picnic tables and fire pits, it caters to a range of camping preferences while maintaining a primitive feel.

• Reliable Cell Service: Surprisingly, despite its remote feel, T-Mobile 5G provides excellent service, which is a benefit for those who need to stay connected or handle online permits, though visitors can still choose to disconnect.

• Fisherman's Paradise: Given its location directly on the Big Hole River, it is particularly ideal for anglers, with many day-use fishermen also frequenting the area, indicating the quality of the fishing.

• Opportunities for Exploration: Its peaceful setting encourages activities like walking, hiking, and simply taking in the natural sights, making it great for families on road trips or anyone looking to explore the Montana outdoors.

As Glen Campground is managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) as part of a Fishing Access Site (FAS), direct contact information for the campground itself is not typically provided beyond its physical address. For general inquiries about regulations, permits, or the Big Hole River area, it's best to contact the relevant Montana FWP regional office.

Address: Glen, MT 59732, USA

For specific questions about Fishing Access Sites and related regulations, you would typically contact the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 3 office, which oversees this area.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks - Region 3 (Bozeman Office)

Address: 1400 S 19th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59718

Phone: 406-994-4042 (This is a general FWP contact for Region 3; specific campground inquiries might require navigating their automated system or speaking to a representative familiar with FAS operations.)

It's always recommended to check the Montana FWP website for the most current information on regulations, permits, and any fire restrictions before planning your visit.

For Montanans, Glen Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's a quintessential example of the accessible, natural beauty that makes our state so special. It embodies the spirit of self-reliance and connection to nature that many locals cherish. Situated directly on the Big Hole River, one of Montana's legendary waterways, it offers an immediate and intimate experience with a vital part of our ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned fly-fisherman, a family looking for a simple, unplugged getaway, or a road-tripper wanting to soak in the vastness of Montana, this campground delivers.

The ease of obtaining the state land permit online for just $10, valid for an entire year, is a huge advantage for local residents. This annual permit means that spontaneous trips to Glen Campground – or any other state land fishing access site – are always an option. You don't need to plan months in advance; you can simply decide to go, pick up your permit, and be on your way to a serene riverside retreat. This flexibility is invaluable for busy Montanans seeking quick escapes into nature.

Moreover, the primitive nature of Glen Campground, with its designated spots, fire pits, and picnic tables, offers a back-to-basics experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. It's a place where kids can truly explore, learn about Leave No Trace principles, and experience the quietude of a Montana summer night. The positive reviews from actual customers underscore its appeal: its "beautiful, just absolutely beautiful country" and "isolated peacefulness" are precisely what many Montanans seek when heading out to camp. It’s a reminder that even without elaborate amenities, the sheer natural grandeur of our state is more than enough. Glen Campground is a perfect, unpretentious slice of Montana that locals can claim as their own, time and time again.