Helen Lake is a remote backcountry wilderness campsite within Glacier National Park, accessible only by trail through rugged alpine terrain. The site offers two designated camping spots near the lake in an exposed, windswept setting with dramatic mountain scenery. No potable water is available on-site, and fires are strictly prohibited throughout this wilderness zone. The surrounding area is prime grizzly bear habitat, making IGBC-approved bear-resistant food storage mandatory for all campers. A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays; advance reservations can be made through Recreation.gov for the summer season, while walk-up permits are available at a Wilderness Permit office the day before departure. Maximum party size is 12 people, with each individual campsite limited to four persons.
Per person, per night (wilderness camping fee)
Non-refundable wilderness permit fee
Open Jul through Oct
During peak season (May 1-October 31), visitors pay $10 permit fee and additional $7/night per person camping fee. Maximum party size is 12 people. Individual campsites are limited to four (4) people.
Official NPS page for wilderness camping information in Glacier National Park, covering permits, reservations, and campsite details.
Glacier National Park Wilderness Permits - reservation page for backcountry campsites including Helen Lake.
Helen Lake (HEL) opens 7/1 (July 1). Permit season runs May 1 through October 31.
$7/person/night camping fees. $10 non-refundable lottery application fee.
CampgroundTour strives to provide accurate campground information but cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Information is subject to change — please confirm details with the agency managing this facility before booking or making travel decisions. See our Terms of Use.
Helen Lake is a remote backcountry wilderness campsite within Glacier National Park, accessible only by trail through rugged alpine terrain. The site offers two designated camping spots near the lake in an exposed, windswept setting with dramatic mountain scenery. No potable water is available on-site, and fires are strictly prohibited throughout this wilderness zone. The surrounding area is prime grizzly bear habitat, making IGBC-approved bear-resistant food storage mandatory for all campers. A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays; advance reservations can be made through Recreation.gov for the summer season, while walk-up permits are available at a Wilderness Permit office the day before departure. Maximum party size is 12 people, with each individual campsite limited to four persons.
Per person, per night (wilderness camping fee)
Non-refundable wilderness permit fee
Open Jul through Oct
During peak season (May 1-October 31), visitors pay $10 permit fee and additional $7/night per person camping fee. Maximum party size is 12 people. Individual campsites are limited to four (4) people.
Official NPS page for wilderness camping information in Glacier National Park, covering permits, reservations, and campsite details.
Glacier National Park Wilderness Permits - reservation page for backcountry campsites including Helen Lake.
Helen Lake (HEL) opens 7/1 (July 1). Permit season runs May 1 through October 31.
$7/person/night camping fees. $10 non-refundable lottery application fee.
CampgroundTour strives to provide accurate campground information but cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Information is subject to change — please confirm details with the agency managing this facility before booking or making travel decisions. See our Terms of Use.