Rising Sun Campground

Rising Sun Campground sits along the edge of Saint Mary Lake within Glacier National Park, offering 84 camping sites that accommodate tents and small recreational vehicles. The grounds feature both open sunny areas and shaded forest sections, with drinking water and restroom facilities distributed across the property.

The campground was established after the Going-to-the-Sun Road opened in 1933, creating access for visitors exploring Glacier National Park. This infrastructure development made accommodations necessary for the growing number of travelers visiting the area.

The campground maintains traditional camping practices with communal gathering spaces where visitors share outdoor experiences and exchange camping knowledge.

Arriving early is important during peak season to secure the best sites, especially those with lake views or shaded forest locations. The layout offers various environments, so visitors should choose based on their preference for sun exposure and proximity to the main facilities.

The site is known for dramatic lighting shifts at sunrise, when the sun illuminates the peaks and casts changing colors across the lake water. Many photographers visit specifically for these early morning views, which transform the mountain landscape throughout the golden hour.