All camping within the boundaries of the park is permitted in designated sites only.

Campfires are allowed in designated campgrounds where fire grates are provided. Firewood may not be collected except along the Inside Road, north of Fish Creek.

Pets are permitted in campgrounds, in parking areas and along roads while leashed at 6 feet or less. They are not allowed on trails, along lake shores or in the backcountry.

Visitors camping with vehicles have about 900 sites of varying size and facilities to chose from in Glacier National Park.

Hikers who venture into the backcountry far enough may obtain a permit to camp at one of the many designated trailside campsites.

These sites provide a number of tent sites, a separate, distant kitchen area with a nearby food pole used to hang provisions out of bear's reach, and a latrine or primitive toilet facilities.

Backcountry users must be self sufficient and be able to chose an itenerary suited to their physical condition.

Backcountry offices are located at St. Mary and in Apgar. Most other manned ranger stations may be prepared to offer advice on route conditions and other concerns.

Wood fires are prohibited in most backcountry campsites. Campers must carry stoves and fuel. Water purification systems are necessary, pump filtration being the most common method. Boiling drinking water and the resultant fuel consumption and extra weight is the alternative.