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Backcountry Permit Policy

A free permit is required to camp in Glacier's backcountry at any time. The permit authorizes camping in established campgrounds on specific nights. Strict adherence to the planned itinerary is required to prevent overcrowding and to minimize human-caused impacts. Campsites fill quickly in July and August.

Permits are available daily in summer at the Apgar and St. Mary Visitor Centers and the Many Glacier Ranger Station.

For trips between May 1 and November 19, permits are issued no more than one day in advance. For trips between November 20 and April 30 special regulations apply. Obtain the Winter Backcountry Camping handout.

Each trip is limited to six nights with no more than three nights in one campground. Some campgrounds have a one night limit. During July and August the total length of stay in the backcountry is limited to 14 days.

Separate permits are needed to camp in Waterton Lakes National Park. There is a fee for each night of backcountry camping in Waterton Lakes National Park.

Important note:
For those visiting the backcountry in the popular summer months you are wise to plan two to three additional days into your trip prior to entering the backcountry. This enables you the greatest chance of securing the backcountry itinerary you desire. Otherwise be flexible and expect that the route you initially map out will have several campsites unavailable to you due to earlier reservations by others in the backcountry.