St. Mary Campground

Overview

St. Mary is the east side’s big basecamp—close to the St. Mary Visitor Center and the east gate of Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road. Expect open, wind‑kissed loops with aspen groves and wide‑angle views of Singleshot, East Flattop, and Red Eagle Mountains. It’s convenient, scenic, and a strong launchpad for east‑side hikes.

Layout and Loops

• Three main loops (A–C) with a mix of tent and RV sites. Many sites are pull‑through and some have “backwards” layouts that can cramp slide/awning use.
• Generators are allowed only in Loops B and C; Loop A is generator‑free and the quietest.
• Shade is limited overall; trees are patchy, especially in Loop C. Later in the season, aspen color softens the otherwise open feel.
• Note: the lower bathroom in Loop A is closed; use the upper Loop A or other loop facilities.

Amenities and Seasonality

• Restrooms: Flush toilets and sinks with running water.
• Water: Potable water is available in the main season. In primitive/winter periods there’s no water—bring your own drinking water.
• Showers: Reported near Loop C and limited in number; availability can vary by season.
• Cell service: Campers report some Verizon/AT&T coverage; expect spotty service overall.
• Winter/primitive: Expect a simpler experience with fewer services; winter camping has been free with a valid park entry pass.

Reservations, Fees, and Rules

• Reservations are required during the operating season and are made on Recreation.gov. In 2025, the campground uses a 6‑month window for the primitive spring season and switches to a same‑day (0‑day) window starting August 11 until closing—book before occupying a site.
• A campsite reservation does not grant vehicle entry to timed‑entry areas (such as the west side of Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road, Many Glacier, or North Fork). Secure any required vehicle reservations separately.
• Max stay is 14 days. Maximum of two tents per site.
• Bears are common. Follow strict food storage rules—keep all attractants in a closed hard‑sided vehicle or provided lockers when not in use.
• Hammocks must be hung over non‑vegetated areas using wide straps.
• Interagency Senior and Access Passes may reduce camping fees by 50% when the passholder occupies the site.

Getting There and Driving Notes

• Easy access from US‑89 and the St. Mary entrance; also reachable via Logan Pass when the road is open.
• Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road restrictions: between Rising Sun and Avalanche, vehicles or combinations over 21 feet long or over 8 feet wide (including mirrors) are prohibited.

Nearby Services and Activities

• Just outside the gate in St. Mary you’ll find restaurants, a small grocery, fuel, and camp stores.
• As a hub for the park’s east side, trailheads start higher—great for racking up views with less elevation gain. The visitor center offers shuttle connections and ranger programs.

Best Time to Visit

• If you want full services (potable water and the best chance at showers), target the main season. If you’re self‑sufficient and value elbow room, primitive/winter periods can be rewarding—bring all your water.
• During the late‑season 0‑day window, be online at 8:00 a.m. Mountain Time for same‑day reservations.
• For a quieter stay, choose Loop A (no generators).