Black Bear Campground

The feel

Black Bear is a small, quiet loop of 12 sites along Williwaw Creek, deep in the rainforest of Portage Valley and close to glaciers and moose meadows. The sites are nicely separated and built for tents, and RVs are not recommended. Fire rings, picnic tables and bear lockers are provided.

The camp sits at mile 3.0 of Portage Glacier Road, on the south side. Bike paths and boardwalks link it with Williwaw Campground, about one mile farther along, and there is lots of wildlife viewing in the area.

What to expect

Layout and setting

A small loop of 12 sites along Williwaw Creek, nicely separated, with no electric hookups.

Check-in and stay

Arrive in person to claim a site, and pay at the pay station at the entrance.

Fees and reservations

$14 to $19 per night. First-come, first-served, with no advance reservations.

Hazards

The camp is roughly 4 miles from a potential Portage Lake landslide. Nothing indicates one is imminent, but take extra care during and immediately after heavy rainfall, especially in summer and fall, and be prepared to evacuate immediately.

Cell signal

Some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

Bathrooms and water

Vault toilets and a hand driven water pump.

Season and access

Generally open mid-May to September 30. At mile 3.0 of Portage Glacier Road, on the south side.

Mingo says

Check the landslide alert for Portage Valley before you drive in, and skip the valley during and right after a downpour. Bring a tent rather than a rig, because the loop is built for tents.

Before you go

• Bring your own firewood.
• Store food in the bear lockers.
• Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app before arrival if you want to use Scan and Pay.
• Call the Glacier Ranger District at (907) 783-3242 with questions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.