Overview Sprague Creek is a small campground located on the northeast shore of Lake McDonald, just off Going-to-the-Sun Road. The maximum size limit allowed for all vehicles as well as combinations of vehicles and towed units in Sprague Creek Campground is 21 feet in length (including bumpers) and/or 8 feet in width (i…
Overview Sprague Creek is a small campground located on the northeast shore of Lake McDonald, just off Going-to-the-Sun Road. The maximum size limit allowed for all vehicles as well as combinations of vehicles and towed units in Sprague Creek Campground is 21 feet in length (including bumpers) and/or 8 feet in width (including mirrors). The campground is located within trees, providing shade during warm summers. Some sites near the shore have unobstructed views of Lake McDonald. All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window. Recreation Amenities such as a camp store, resturant, gift shop, tour buses, boat tours, and horse rides can be found at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, about a mile away from the campground. Evening programs with a ranger are also located at Lake McDonald Lodge. Use Glacier's free shuttle service at this campground to access other shuttle stops on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Facilities The campground is small with 21 reservable campsites in close proximity. The sites are best suited for small-footprint tent campers; although small RVs under 21 feet are allowed. No towed units of any size or generators are allowed. Potable water is accessible in the campground, and restroom facilities have flush toilets and sinks with running water. Natural Features Sprague Creek is heavily forested with partial shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles. Nearby Attractions One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half o
Photos
Sprague Creek Picnic Area — NPS/Gabriel MorrowSprague Creek Trail to Lake McDonald — NPS/Gabriel MorrowSprague Creek Trail to Lake — NPS/Gabriel MorrowLake McDonald surrounded by snow covered peaks. — NPS Photo
How to Get There
Sprague Creek Campground has multiple entry points on the east and west side of the park. West Side West Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of West Glacier (approximately 33 miles/53 km from Kalispell). West Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 2 west to the town of West Glacier. East Side St. Mary Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of Browning (approx. 83 miles/134 km). At the traffic circle, exit onto Hwy 89 north and continue for another 30 miles (48 km). Follow the signage to the St. Mary Visitor Center / Going-to-the-Sun Road. St. Mary Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 89 north to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Sprague Creek Campground
Heading to Sprague Creek Campground? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Sprague Creek Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Sprague Creek Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258795) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at Sprague Creek Campground?
Sprague Creek Campground has 36 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to Sprague Creek Campground?
Sprague Creek Campground has multiple entry points on the east and west side of the park. West Side West Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of West Glacier (approximately 33 miles/53 km from Kalispell). West Entrance – From Browning, take Highway 2 west to the town of West Glacier. East Side St. Mary Entrance – From Columbia Falls, take Highway 2 east to the town of Br…