Jim was a very informative and interesting guide - 17 years at the caverns. It was so fun and interesting to see all of the various rooms in the cave and the various features. The hike to the cave entrance was broken up by a couple of informational talks from Jim and gave several of us time to catch our breath. Inside the cave there are short groups of steps and stops to talk about the various spaces.See more..
4.5Giant Springs State Park(467 reviews) - The perfect place for a perfect day~ Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
See. Do. Explore. The possibilities at Giant Springs State Park are limitless- there is so much to see & do with over 4600 acres of front & backcountry & 20 miles of trail. Most people come for the beautiful springs (first described by Lewis and Clark in 1805), BUT there is so much more to do! Giant Springs offers opportunities for Biking, Hiking, Picnicking, Fishing, Hunting, Boating, Bird/wildlife watching, Photography. There is also much to see: The Springs, River Overlooks, the Fish Hatchery, The Falls and More! Visit the ranger station for guided tours/walks, children's activities, summer programming or for questions.See more..
4.0Pictograph Cave State Park(428 reviews) - steep climb to the cave, not very stroller friendly Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Pictograph Cave State Park is a National Historic Landmark known for its importance to Northern Plains Archaeology. Visitors will learn about the rock art and artifacts found here which dates thousands of years old. This 23 acre park features walking trails, stunning scenery, a green-design visitor's center, picnic grounds, museum displays, everything you need for a fun and educational visit! The site is well-known for its' spirit writing. Soluble minerals leach through the sandstone and cover the rock art, but when the wall becomes wet, on rare instances, that veil of minerals will lift (becomes transparent) revealing what is hidden beneath. On a dry day you may see 5-9 pictographs, but on the brief, wet occurrences, 10-15 more images may appear in better detail. The Crow people believe that many of these images were drawn by the spirits, and whichever ones you see are meant to give you a personal message or even foretell future events.See more..
5.0Bannack State Park(406 reviews) - Wild West Ghost town in South West Montana Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM State Parks • Ghost Towns
A park with over 60 original structures still standing from the 1800s, including the old hotel, the governor's mansion, the Masonic Hall and the Methodist Church.See more..
The Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin Rivers merge to form the Missouri River, which was an important geographical area for early native Americans, traders, trappers and settlers.See more..
4.5Lone Pine State Park(161 reviews) - Great local playground Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM State Parks • Parks
This is such a great local playground. Located just 10 minutes from downtown Kalispell, it gives anyone with time restraints an opportunity to explore. Located on the west side of the valley at an elevation ranging roughly from 2950' to 3650' (900 m to 1110 m) there are moderately challenging trails. The trails are marked and there are kiosks with information as well about the trails and history. With numerous overlooks the views of the valley are spectacular. Looking east Glacier National Park is easily seen. There is a self guided audio tour available. The visitors center has a gift shop as well as information and there is an interactive learning center, however it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. This is free to Montana residents but there is a nominal fee for those from out of state.See more..
4.5Flathead Lake State Park(143 reviews) - A memorable weekend Saturday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM State Parks
Going on a voyage with several other outrigger canoes, paddling 25 miles around the Lake. The Silver Lining Club sponsored the event in mid-July and there were paddlers from Maui, Canada as well as the USA. We shared a Yurt and had a fantastic view of the lake.See more..
As a history enthusiast, I could not miss a chance to check out this site. It is easy to access and provides a tasteful, informative and simple glimpse into the past. The buffalo jump can be viewed directly from the parking area, but a short 1/4 mile hike will take you to a well designed kiosk that provides information about the site. The hike is uphill, but short and along a well marked and safe trail. I can't imagine not including this stop if you are in the area.See more..
Growing up in Billings, MT, I have seen Lake Elmo in many conditions. I am very happy to bring all 3 of my children to the park now. When I was a child, it didn't really have a beach and you had to walk along way to get to the bathroom. Now, there is a nice beach (of course,not the "white sands" of a "Sandals" resort) no glass shards to watch out for and all users have been courtious and friendly! There are nice picnic areas and a very nice pier. Anyone who has grown up in Billings, can tell you how great this park is. Those who did not grow up here, they will talk about how it could be "better." I would say it is improved 110% from when I was a child and I'm only going to be 30 in August! If you decide to check it out, I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as me and mine do. For those of you who are questioning if I've ever been out of this state, yes I have!See more..
4.5Wayfarers State Park(60 reviews) - Great all around park Spent More than 3 hours State Parks
No trip to Bigfork is complete without a stop at Wayfarer State Park. While the park is relatively small it still offers a full array of activity. In the summer activities such as boating, fishing, camping and swimming are available. There are also year round hiking trails throughout the park, and just being on the lake shore is enjoyable. On this February day the Flathead was experiencing very windy conditions and there were numerous wind surfers enjoying the wind and waves. Bring it in, bring it out, leave no traces!!See more..
If you're coming from Livingston, note that Swiggerly Rd (295) is unpaved. We decided to return to Livingston via 298 through Big Timber which is paved. There is a short accessible trail which leads to the gorge but it doesn't have a view of the falls. The 0.7-mile E. Rim trail takes you to several views of the falls. There is 65' change in elevation. There is a vault toilet but no running water.See more..
Rented a pontoon boat during a trip to Glacier National park recently. It was a great day to get out on the water and just drive around the lake looking at the beautiful houses on the shore. Went over to The Lodge for a drink and to listen to some music. Made for a great afternoon. See more..
4.5Travelers' Rest State Park(42 reviews) - Historical/Beautiful Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • State Parks
Travelers' Rest State Park marks the crossroads of natural and cultural history. The 65-acre site includes the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, a traditional meeting place of Native American tribes including the Bitterroot Salish, and riparian habitat that is home to hundreds of species of birds and mammals.See more..
4.5Medicine Rocks State Park(35 reviews) - Great overnight camping among pines and rock formations in the middle of nowhere State Parks • Parks
Stopped here around 4 pm coming from T Roosevelt NP. Glad we did. Surprising to find an island of ponderosa pines and amazingly eroded rock formations arising from an otherwise featureless steppe landscape. In late May the whole place was practically deserted. There are only six campsites designated, and yet I think Medicine Ricks could absorb at least 100 Boy Scouts comfortably. There are many nearly level spots to pitch your tent at each campsite, and the ground is soft and covered either in grass or pine needles. We used the fire ring to dine on choripan (kielbasa on hoagie rolls). No frills here; pit toilets, but they were clean and nearly odorless. A hidden gem for an overnight stay!See more..
This is a great little lake on the edge of town to take kids swimming, fishing etc. Restroom facilities, tables, grass, shade, turtles, sunfish, bass etc. See more..
If you're a Lewis & Clark fan this place is great. The day we went we were the only people there. Be sure and stop by Beaverhead Rock; about 20 miles north of Clarks Lookout.See more..
Situated within the Crow Indian Reservation in south-central Montana, 40 minutes south of Billings, this day-use park preserves the log home, sacred spring, and farmstead of Chief Plenty Coups. This state park is a National Historic Landmark. Chief Plenty Coups (Aleek-chea-ahoosh, meaning "many achievements") was a man of war - and then a man of peace - whose vision has helped bridge a gap between two cultures. Recognized for his bravery and leadership, he was made a chief of the Apsáalooke (Crow) tribe by age 28. When Chief Plenty Coups gave up his nomadic ways in 1884, he became one of the first Apsáalooke to own and settle on a farm, which was deeded to him through the federal Indian Allotment Act. On his 320-acre tract, located a half mile east of Pryor, he opened a general store, built a home, and tilled the earth until his death in 1932 at age 84. At that time, as requested by Chief Plenty Coups and his wife, Strikes the Iron, 195 acres of his land was made into a public park. Upon his death, the Apsáalooke people voted to designate him as their last traditional tribal chief. Plan at least an hour to walk the grounds and browse through the Visitor Center that commemorates the life of this remarkable man and his efforts to lead his people into bridging the gap between two cultures and transition from a tipi and buffalo to a settled reservation lifestyle. Walk the 3/4 mile trail around the park along beautiful Pryor Creek.The tranquil, shaded picnic area is a beautiful spot to enjoy lunch and absorb the serenity of this special place. Chief Plenty Coups Day of Honor-with speakers, drummers and dancers, tours, buffalo feast and more-held annually the Saturday before Labor Day, is an event you don't want to miss. SEASON AND HOURS Park Off-Season: 9/19/16 to 5/18/17, Open Wed through Sun, 8am - 5pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Summer Season Open daily 5/19/17 - 9/17/17, 8 am - 8 pm. Visitor Center Off-Season: 9/19/16 - 5/18/17, Open Wed through Sun, 10am - 5pm. ...See more..
Because the weather was not favorable in Alberta we headed down south to Great Falls to go camping. With the only camping in GTF being an RV park or Koa , we did some searching and came across Black Sandy State park , it is beautiful !! Besides camping right on the lake , there is fishing, canoeing and a short bike ride to Hauser Lake Dam. Another bonus is that it is located only 7 miles north of Helena. I look forward to camping there again next fall and bringing our kayaks .See more..
4.0Salmon Lake State Park(20 reviews) - Beautiful Setting Spent More than 3 hours State Parks
Beautiful mountain lake right off the road on the way to Seeley Lake. The water is crystal clear and the lake is surrounded by treed hills. Great fishing spots all along with lake.See more..
A battlefield where U.S. soldiers and Cheyenne Indians fought.See more..
4.5Lost Creek State Park(13 reviews) - Nothing to lose. Instead enjoy a waterfall and gorgeous mountains Spent 1-2 hours State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
We first went to the Lost Creek Falls. It was so beautiful. Then we went a hike near the mountains. That was cool as well. There were sometimes pebbles. However, we saw some gorgeous mountains. Wow! I don't think anyone lost a state park. We found it again! This is a must see!See more..
4.5West Shore State Park(10 reviews) - Another great state park! State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
This park is nestled on the west shore of Flathead Lake. While the park is not huge it is still packed with activities. Boating, fishing, hiking, canoeing, camping and wild life watching are just to name a few. Goose Island is straight ahead of the park and accessible by canoe or kayak. In addition there are great views of the east shore and Bob Marshal Wilderness Area. While many of the amenities are unavailable in winter it is still a beautiful spot for photography with plenty of hiking trails available as well. Be prepared~ bear spray is always a good idea, not all bears are hibernating. See more..
4.5Big Arm State Park(9 reviews) - Another fine Montana playground State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
As with many Montana State Parks this time of year, there is a minimal amount of activities available. However our unfortunate lack of snow and unusual warm temperatures has allowed for easier access to hiking for what ever that's worth! The park is nestled on the south west coast of Flathead Lake, on US 93, south of Rollins. In addition to hiking, boating, picnicking and other outdoor activities, the park is well suited for substantial camping. Some of the amenities include, reserved campsites, grills, tables, water spigots, bathrooms and showers. On this mild January day walking the rocky beach and short trails proved a perfect afternoon getaway. Remember if you carry it in, carry it out and be Bear Aware! There is a $6. day use fee for non residents, camping fees are higher.See more..
Really neat old ghost town and mining artifacts. There are only a few buildings you can go into, but lots of history around town! The wood water tower has be repaired. I highly recommend checking out the cemetery, pretty sad story. Plenty of parking all over.See more..
4.5Placid Lake State Park(8 reviews) - Wow Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Bodies of Water • Mountains • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Hidden gem of a park off the highway. Pristine campground around a lake that is usually as still as a mirror. Perfect place to relax for a weekend, do some fishing/swimming and take some colorful photos. Make weekend reservations ahead of time!See more..
3.0Fort Owen State Park(7 reviews) - Significant but limited Spent 1-2 hours State Parks
Important Montana historical site but because of limited parking and no services, it is often overlooked. Make note of park hours, and be sensitive of neighboring landowner whose land surrounds the 1 acre park. Park only in designated spots and remain within the wooden rail fence.See more..
4.5Les Mason State Park(7 reviews) - Peaceful place State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Great spot for a day out quiet lots of space and very safe swimming. Views amazing. Offer canoes to rentSee more..
4.5Ackley Lake State Park(6 reviews) - The best ever camping in Montana State Parks • Parks
I just love this state park. It's within a hundred and fifty miles of the largest towns in Montana. It has awesome picnic shelters with tables. The park is maintained! This place is quiet! Join the club. The Ackley Lake Club. They support and maintain this state park. Camping is great. Fishing is great. Don't forget to go to Utica and have a steak or a burger.See more..
The hike can be narrow in places but forge on and you are rewarded. You will come to the first bridge that says it is closed but if you stay to the right you can scramble around rocks and hop a creek and continue on the other side. There will be two more worn bridges to cross and one you go under until you reach the tunnel. It was about 3.5 miles to this point. Many beautiful flowers and wild strawberries and blueberries, yet no berries yet. Do this hike and bring sandles or swim gear.See more..
4.0Logan State Park(5 reviews) - Great campground off the highway State Parks My spouse and I traveled from Alberta, Canada to spend a week camping here. We booked our site online and were very happy once we arrived after a 7-8 hour drive. Although right beside the highway, we were able to block out some of the traffic noise. The campground had nice facilities including showers, clean flush toilets, and even an outdoor sink with hot water to wash your dishes. The lake is crystal clear and there were lots of other beautiful places to explore in the area. We took a day trip to Flathead Lake near Big Arm and rented a glass bottom kayak.See more..
This time of year the park is closed to vehicular traffic but there is parking directly across the road and it is easy to walk in. The park itself is located about 4 miles (6.8 km) off of MT 35. The road, No./So. Finley Point Rd, meanders a bit but is easy to follow. The park is located on the southeast corner of Flathead Lake with stunning views of the lake, and the Mission Mountains to the west. This time of year with the lower water level of the lake I could walk out a bit on the rocks and ice. The park has both camper and tent campsites making it that much more desirable for longer stays. In addition to the camping, the park offers a full array of activities including canoeing, sailing, swimming, picnicking, fishing and boating with plenty of dock space. The beach is ideal for sunning and relaxing or just taking in the view. All this nestled in a 28 acre strip on the lake. A truly great outing!!See more..
So pretty. Only 5 tent camping sites so not over crowded. Has flush toilets with electric outlets. Has vault ones too but flush better. Clean water and super gorgeous with mountain view.See more..
On of my favorite pass times when the weather permits, is checking out Montana state parks. I had been at the Natural Pier Bridge in Alberton so this was a logical stop. The park is fairly large with well maintained open areas. It is for day use only and offers less activities then many of the other state parks. That being said it is very family friendly. There is a play area with a jungle gym and swings, perfect for young kids and the large green areas are perfect for adult activities. There are numerous picnic tables as well as grills and pavilions for group activities The pond's beach is perfect for sunning and relaxing. Other activities include swimming, fishing, ice skating and boating. This is a great place for a family's day outing.See more..
Beautiful place! The water was cold and clear, the location stunning and the night sky was so vivid. The camp and host were great and we had a really good time. It is a no amenities camp ground so come prepared.See more..
3.5Pirogue Island State Park(4 reviews) - Great park with trails State Parks We visited over Labor Day weekend. Google maps did not take us to the right location but Apple Maps brought us right to the parking lot, plus there were directional signs along the way once we were on the right track. There is an $8 fee for out of state plates to be paid with exact cash. The park has a few loop trails that really let you stretch your legs and quite a few picnic tables and benches along the way. There were two areas on the trail that appeared to have been water crossings at one point but were bone dry. We could walk all the way down to the river. We had the whole park to ourselves! Great stop after spending so much time on the road.See more..
Great Hike, great views, it is undeveloped so there is nothing else. We hike in May on cloudy 60 degree day and it was hot, make sure you bring plenty of water. See more..
What's not to like about Tongue River? Roomy camp spaces that aren't all on gravel. Boat ramps. Small store and sometimes entertainment. Bay for paddle boarding and kids play. Dog Friendly. Close to Sheridan if you've forgotten something. Big Reservoir for boating and great fishing!See more..
We spent a week at Hell Creek park near Jordan. We had 3 major thunderstorms and a full campground. Despite those challenges, the bathroom/shower building was kept amazingly clean. All of us were very pleased with the promptness of handling the tracked in mud, and heavy use. I believe camp host Kim was mainly responsible. Super job. Thank you.See more..
My son and I did a 4 day float on the Smith River. Only access is with a permit through a lottery. We met 9 others (15 max./group). Started at Camp Baker where we picked our camp sites, first come/first serve. We had perfect weather, the river flow was 1100cfs. 1200 foot drop over the 60 mile trip. Highly recommend for family or friends. We saw one family with two boys, 2 and 4. I wouldn't recommend that but they seemed to be having a good time. See more..
4.5Thompson Falls State Park(2 reviews) - Day pass visitor State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas We did not camp at this park, but the campsites appeared to be nicely spaced apart and there are not very many of them. Once you get to the parking lot for daily visiting, you can go to the right or the left to walk on the trails. As you are facing the river, the trail to the right is a little overgrown. The trail to the left is nicely maintained and has some benches to sit and relax to enjoy the river.See more..
4.5Logan State Park(2 reviews) - Stellar bathrooms and amazing scenery State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
This park is so clean and beautiful scenery. The individuals were fantastic and so helpful. I was also amazed at how clean the bathrooms are kept.See more..
5.0Cooney Reservoir State Park(1 review) - Stopped for a night State Parks • Bodies of Water Quick camping trip with friends!! We had a great time bathrooms are decent and water is nice. Only 50 mins from Billings. See more..
5.0Brush Lake State Park(1 review) - Brush lake takover!!! State Parks • Bodies of Water
Best place to bring your friends and family for an weekend full of great boating, games and casual drinking!See more..
3.0Tower Rock State Park(1 review) - Hidden in plain sight State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
I have driven past this place for nearly 15 years and had no idea it was there until I went looking for it on my way home from a roadtrip. It's a short trail to a "distinctive" rock described by Lewis and Clark in their journals. The trail doesn't go all the way up to Tower Rock, but stops at a bench that also overlooks the river (and the interstate).See more..
