Water Skiing

Salmon-Lake-State-Park

Salmon Lake State Park

Salmon Lake State Park

Salmon Lake State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Tucked between the Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges along the Clearwater River you’ll find Salmon Lake State Park, a great park for camping and water recreation.  Salmon Lake became a state park in December of 1977.  

A memorial plaque near the park's center explains how the Salmon Lake State Park was a gift from the Champion Timberland Corps and is meant to serve as an honor to three foresters who died in a plane crash in 1976.

Click Here To Access a Map!
Salmon Lake State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to visit?

Fall is one of the best times to visit the park. The reflection of colorful Western Larch trees in the lake makes for a breathtaking view! 

The forests surrounding the lake are home to many Western Larch trees which are unique as they are one of only a few species of deciduous coniferous trees, meaning that they change color and shed their foliage in the fall like broadleaf trees.  

Park Activities

Park Features

  • Fish in Salmon Lake or Clearwater River for a variety of trout, largemouth bass, white mountain whitefish, kokanee salmon, yellow perch and northern pike. 
  • Go birdwatching and see if you can spot any red-necked grebes, great blue herons, bald eagles, waterfowl, osprey or common loons. 
  • Enjoy the gravel beach and take a dip in the lake. 
  • Take a hike along the shoreline or through the forest on one of the many trails. 
  • Enjoy the lake in a canoe, kayak or on water-skis if you’re a bit more adventurous. 
  • Plus so much more!

A beautiful forest of Western Larch, Ponderosa Pine, and Douglas-Fir surround the campsite, which includes 23 paved sites with electrical hookups.

The campsite host can provide ideas for activities and will have firewood for sale!

This campsite has become so popular in the last few years, reservations are recommended to be sure you don’t miss out!

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"I love this park. They have a couple of camp spots that right on the water and it's gorgeous. They also have some really nice spots that are up on a hill overlooking the lake with nature trails that lead to an island! There are even a couple of hiker/biker spots for $8 a night. Seriously, this is one of my favorite camp spots in the area."

"Great campground, nice camp host, amenities were what the website stated. Will be back!"

"Great lake to swim, paddle, and boat!"

"I’ve fished this lake probably around three hundred times and I just keep coming back. I fish mostly northern pike and it’s rare that I go home empty handed. The boat launch is above average and they’ve recently added a no swimming sign to the dock which is beneficial and safer for me as a boatsmen. There is a separate swimming area. It also has a covered area for picnics, clean restrooms, and amble parking for single cars."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Summer Season
    Park open through the summer until late October.
     
    Winter Season
    Nov 1 - April 30
    Closed to all motorized traffic, walk-in only. Day-use only, no overnight camping.

  • pine icon

    Campground

    Open 5/1 through 9/30.

  • pine icon

    Day Use Area

    Open 5/1 - 11/30, weather permitting. November snow storms may close the area early.

  • pine icon

    Location

    2329 Hwy. 83 N Seeley Lake, MT 59868

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Salmon Lake State Park Read More »

Placid Lake State Park

Placid Lake State Park

Placid Lake State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Placid Lake State Park is located outside of Missoula, MT near Seeley Lake, MT. Placid Lake State Park is open year-round with extensive outdoor recreation options in the summer months, including fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking – just to name a few.

We are able to bring you valuable information about this amazing state park thanks to the support of:

Get Directions to Park
Placid Lake State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to camp?

Lake Placid State Park is a great option if you’re looking to camp! With 40 campsites and recently added showers and laundry facilities, this state park provides a taste of the great outdoors without having to stray too far from the comforts of home. 

With over 40,000 visitors each summer, Placid Lake State Park is one of the busiest state parks.

Park Activities

Park Features

  • Challenge your friends or family to a game of volleyball or horseshoes.
  • Spend the day on the water boating or swimming.
  • Take in a beautiful sunset over the lake. 
  • Go on a hike around the lake. 
  • Open Year-Round

 

The forest around the lake was once in logging territory and what were once roads used to haul trees and equipment are now used as hiking and mountain biking trails. You can learn more about the history of the area through the interpretive panels along the trails.

Planning to bring your boat? You can rent a boat slip on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Did you know the Montana State Parks Foundation’s specialty license plate is a painting of this state park by Missoula artist Monte Dolack, entitled “Placid Lake Sunset”?

And that every dollar from license plate sales help to fund the Foundation's work and is available at your local DMV anywhere in the state.

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"The lake was amazing, the surrounding area breathtaking and the road to get there was well maintained. The campgrounds were clean and so were the restrooms. I am already planning my next visit to Placid Lake."

"Pure heaven if you are looking for a place to boat, camp, hike, pick huckleberries, bike ride, or fish. Just a few ideas for an amazing getaway. The lake is beautiful, warm and not extremely large. You can pick huckleberries right off the main roads in the summer.. Go explore and visit this little gem in Montana."

"Really awesome state park campground. We'll definitely be back. Amenities are great including hot showers and clean facilities. The swim beach is great for young kids and the access to the lake is great."

"Beautiful park to kayak, picnic and swim."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park & Campground

    Summer Season:
    Open May 1 - Nov 30, weather permitting.
    Quiet Hours: 10pm-7am.
     
    Winter Season:
    December 1 - April 30
    Closed to all motorized traffic, walk-in only. Day-use only, no overnight camping.

  • pine icon

    Location

    5001 N. Placid Lake Road Seeley Lake, MT 59868

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Placid Lake State Park Read More »

Yellow Bay State Park

Yellow Bay State Park

Yellow Bay State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

One of the six state parks located on Flathead Lake, Yellow Bay is an excellent destination for tent campers!

To get there, visitors will take a drive along the beautiful, winding MT HWY 35 amidst cherry, pear and apple orchards.

As you pass through, remember to stop and explore the local orchards. They offer fresh fruit as well as guided tours!

Click Here To Access a Map!
1
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to camp?

Regardless of the water level, boaters usually have no problems putting their boats in at Yellow Bay due to the steepness of its ramp. There are 5 tent campsites, and they are first-come, first-served, so be sure to arrive early to claim your spot!

Yellow Bay Creek flows through the park near the campsites, providing a peaceful sound of cascading water to fall asleep to.
The University of Montana has a renowned Biological station there.

They are the second oldest biological field station in the US and the oldest west of the Mississippi River. They have one of the oldest, contiguous lake data sets in the world.

Park Activities

Park Features

  • pine icon

    Be on the lookout for birds and plentiful wildlife.

  • pine icon

    Spend a day on the open water boating, canoeing, kayaking or water skiing.

  • pine icon

    A joint tribal/state license will allow you to fish for lake trout.

  • pine icon

    Take a dip in the chilly water.

  • pine icon

    Take a look at what’s under the surface of the water and go scuba diving.

They are currently building an erosion-resistant beach on their portion of the property. They also offer regular community and family activities year round.

Don’t forget to grab fresh fruit from roadside stands or go picking at an orchard during the summer months!

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"Nice small park tucked away from the heavy traffic of some of the larger parks. Spacious boat launch and a large area to let your water dogs enjoy the lake. Lots of picnic tables- sun and shade. Free day use for Montana residents."

"Clean and cute campground with a camp host and lake access. Plenty of picnic tables and a picnic shelter. Bathroom was clean and stocked with TP and soap."

"Very nice park facing south. We had sun all day. Park Host was very helpful and doing a great job of keeping up with the park. Restrooms had running water and they were clean! No showers but was a hose to wash off after swimming, a must in late summer when swimmers itches is more common. No kids toys but water, rocks, small creek, plenty to do. Enjoyed it very much!"

"Best campground at the lake's shore. Good boat ramp and plenty room to tie boats to shore."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open Year-Round

  • pine icon

    Campground 

    Open (Tent camping only; first come, first served)

  • pine icon

    Water

    Available mid-May through Labor Day

  • pine icon

    Flush Toilets

    Open mid-May through Labor Day

  • pine icon

    Dock

    Normally, available mid-March through November, weather permitting. For status please visit our Facebook page or call Flathead Lake State Park Ranger Station, 406-837-3041

    For waves & wind forecast, check NOAA Graphical Flathead Lake Forecast

  • pine icon

    Location

    23861 MT HWY 35 Bigfork, MT 59911

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Yellow Bay State Park Read More »

WhitefishLakeStateParkView

Whitefish Lake State Park

Whitefish Lake State Park

Whitefish Lake State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

A quick drive, walk, or bike ride from downtown Whitefish, you’ll find Whitefish Lake State Park or just State Park as the locals call it. Part of the Whitefish hiking and biking trail system, this park has something for everyone!

Click Here To Access a Map!
Whitefish Lake State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to camp?

Whitefish Lake is host to 25 campsites made up of a mix of tent only, bike travel, and RV camping. You’re sure to find what you need if you plan to stay a night or two!

Many of the campsites here have a secluded feeling as they’re divided by tall trees. If you plan to bring in your RV or trailer, be aware that RV/trailer length is limited to 40 feet.

Kids love watching trains move just along the park’s edge near the campground!

A new hike and bike campsite is perfect for cyclists traveling along the Great Divide route!

The lake is rarely windy making is the perfect destination for water-skiing and other water activities!

Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats are available to rent June 15-Labor Day from Sea Me Paddle Kayaking Tours, Inc. Be sure to call ahead as hours of operation vary! You can reach them at 406-249-1153.

Park Activities

Park Features

While the shallow water at the beach isn’t known for swimming, your four-legged friend will love the designated swimming area for dogs!

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"Clean and well organized. Park rangers enforce the law properly"

"Nice clean campground. Friendly hosts. Easy access to lake. Perfect for swimming and for the pups. Decent public restrooms"

"Great little camp ground with a dog exercise/swimming area, huge beachfront picnic area, boat launch, with spacious, semi-private campsites. The best part though was the helpful, friendly staff! We'll be back! Also, very close to the Whitefish Trail system, some of the best mountain biking/hiking in the Northwest!"

"Really nice quiet place with amazing views of big mountain."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open

    Gates Closed December - April

  • pine icon

    Campground

    Open

  • pine icon

    Water and showers

    Open

  • pine icon

    Location

    1615 W Lakeshore Whitefish, MT 59937

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Whitefish Lake State Park Read More »

West Shore State Park 2

West Shore State Park

West Shore State Park

West Shore State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

West Shore State Park is located just outside of Lakeside, MT and is open year-round!

There, you will find glacially-carved rock outcrops within the park where you’ll have incredible views of Flathead Lake and the Mission and Swan Mountains Ranges.

Click Here To Access a Map!
West Shore State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to hike?

All of the hiking trails at the park are single-track dirt trails that range from steep and laborious to gradual, contoured and easy-going. Pets are welcome on a leash.

West Shore has a dock so long that boats can use it year-round (including winter!) when the lake is low. Experience the tranquil atmosphere while camping in a forest of fir, pine and larch above Flathead Lake.

There are 31 campsites available with seven being tent only. If you plan to bring your RV or trailer, make sure it’s no more than 40 feet.

Park Activities

Park Features

  • pine icon

    Take in the unique topography of West Shore State Park on 4 miles of hiking trails along the rocky shoreline.

  • pine icon

    Bring your joint state/tribal fishing license and take your shot at catching dinner from the lake!

  • pine icon

    Spend a day on the lake and rent a kayak or canoe from Sea Me Paddle in Lakeside or at the Park during the summer.

  • pine icon

    Enjoy the beach and then cool off with a dip in chilly Flathead Lake.

  • pine icon

    Check out the local wildlife, including great birdwatching!

West Shore has a dock so long that boats can use it year-round (including winter!) when the lake is low. Experience the tranquil atmosphere while camping in a forest of fir, pine and larch above Flathead Lake.

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"We just stopped here to relax a bit. The park is in a nice forest with lake access. There is also a small trail inside the park which leads to a nice vista point."

"This Lake brings back so many childhood memories there is a single spot of this like that I don't love!"

"Good trails. Beautiful shore line. Camping spots look good, not too close together."

"SO pretty!!! I just want to LIVE here!"

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open

  • pine icon

    Campground 

    Open

  • pine icon

    Potable water

    May through September

  • pine icon

    Dock

    For status updates please visit our Facebook page or call Flathead Lake State Park, 406-837-3041.
    For waves & wind forecast, check NOAA Graphical Flathead Lake Forecast

  • pine icon

    Location

    17768 MT Hwy 93 Lakeside, MT 59922

Parks That Others Are Visiting

West Shore State Park Read More »

Wayfarers State Park 2

Wayfarers State Park

Wayfarers State Park

Wayfarers State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Located on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake near Bigfork, you’ll find Wayfarers State Park. This park, while small, has so much to offer!

Click Here To Access a Map!
Wayfarers State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

IMG_5964

Download Brochure

Looking to camp?

From spring to late fall, the area abounds in wildflowers. Nature walks over the rocky shoreline to the cliffs are popular with photographers for an excellent view of Flathead Lake. There are 30 campsites in the park, including a hike-bike campsite with 9 tent pads, convenient for cyclists traveling the nearby Continental Divide route.

The maximum length for RV/trailer units is 40 feet. Starting in spring and into the late fall, Wayfarers is full of wildflowers! The best part of Wayfarers State Park? Its location along the northeastern part of Flathead Lake makes it one of the ideal places to watch the sunset over the lake and sink behind the mountains.

Park Activities

Park Features

While close enough to Bigfork to walk, the mature mixed forest of Wayfarers makes it a great place for camping and picnicking. Located near the quaint resort town of Bigfork on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake, this park is 67 acres in size and is 2,923 feet in elevation. A mature mixed forest makes this site very pleasant for camping and picnicking.

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"Really nice park with lots of room. Nice water access very close to Bigfork. Well kept."

"Great place to camp and beautiful views of the lake!"

"Great for all ages. There were tons of families but we were able to find a whole other section with rocks to jump off of. So much fun."

"When passing through Big Fork, we often make Wayfarers our lunch stop destination. A good chance to stretch the legs, gaze out over the water, and enjoy lunch. We have camped here as well. Can be very crowded mid-summer so make a reservation. Some sites are very tight."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open Year-Round. Day-use open from 7 AM to 10 PM daily.

  • pine icon

    Campground

    Open April through October

  • pine icon

    Water and Shower House

    Available May through September.

  • pine icon

    Dock

    Contact park for availability.
    Dock is unusable when lake level is low.
    Typically lake level is high enough mid-June through early-September.
    For Waves & Wind Forecast, check NOAA Graphical Flathead Lake Forecast

  • pine icon

    Location

    8600 MT. Hwy 35 Bigfork, MT 59911

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Wayfarers State Park Read More »

Tongue River Reservoir State Park

Tongue River Reservoir State Park

Tongue River Reservoir State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Tongue River Reservoir State Park is located near the southeastern border of Montana, just 10 minutes outside of Decker.

A 265-mile-long tributary of the Yellowstone River, “the Tongue” (as it is called locally) starts in Wyoming and runs through Montana.

The park features a 12-mile long reservoir set in the scenic prairie and bluff lands of southeastern Montana, which is characterized by the striking contrast of red shale and juniper canyons. Due to the rareness of large bodies of water like this in this part of the state, the park can see up to 50,000 visitors a year.

We are able to bring you valuable information about this amazing state park thanks to the support of:

Visit Southeast Montana
Click Here To Access a Map!
Tongue River Reservoir State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

Looking to camp?

81 reservable campsites with electric hookups, and 27 of those are double occupancy with two electric hook-ups. There are also 80 non-reservable, non-electric sites!

At 12 miles long, the reservoir makes for excellent fishing any time of year! You’ll find crappie, walleye, bass, and northern pike here. You can also fly fish below the dam, and a fish cleaning station is located within the park.

Forgot anything or just need additional supplies? The marina at Campers Point has firewood, ice, fishing and boating supplies, boat rentals, boat and RV storage, bait, groceries, snacks, drinks, gasoline, souvenirs, fishing and hunting licenses, and non-resident park passes.

While summertime may be the most popular time to visit the park, Tongue River Reservoir State Park also features amazing ice fishing and year-round campsites that support just that.

Park Activities

  • Take the boat out on the water! There are two boat ramps with docks, one at Campers Point and one at Pee Wee North.
  • Go for a swim! Sand Point has a small beach area for swimming.
  • Keep your eyes open for wildlife! You may see osprey, blue herons, deer, antelope, or bald eagles.
  • Bring your picnic! The designated day-use area has picnic tables at Campers Point and Sand Point.

Park Features

Tongue River Reservoir has some of the best ice fishing in Montana.

Just ask Chris Jairell of Sheridan, WY who landed a massive 42-inch, 15-pound Tiger Muskie while ice fishing last year.

Tongue River Reservoir boasts miles and miles of ice to test your skill and get you out this winter.

You can also check The Marina's Facebook page to keep tabs on the water and weather conditions. They post regular updates as well as provide an opportunity to share your big fish stories. Just be prepared to provide photographic evidence when you do.

The Marina is also a great place to learn about what you can fish for, ice conditions, and travel tips. You can also call them at (406) 757-2225

Tongue River Reservoir State Park currently holds two state records for the weight of fish caught, including a 37.5 pound Northern Pike?

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"My most favorite places to go camping and fishing."

"Catch Walleye, Pike, Crappie, Bass, Cats, and MORE!"

"Great place to recreate with shore-side camping, most with electrical hookups available."

"Tongue River Reservoir has the best fishing - they have a wide variety of fish to choose from when They hit they hit you hard. Everything from walleye to catfish to a bluegill sunfish, bass, pike, crappie etc."

 

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open Year-Round

  • pine icon

    Campground

    Open Year-Round

    Electricity available at some campgrounds
    Group areas & playground are open

  • pine icon

    Water & Fish Cleaning Stations

    Closed for the season.

    Electricity available at some campgrounds
    Group areas & playground are open

  • pine icon

    Location

    290 Campers Point Decker, MT 59025

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Tongue River Reservoir State Park Read More »

Finley Point State Park 1

Finley Point State Park

Finley Point State Park

Finley Point State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Located on a narrow point on the south side of Flathead Lake, Finley Point is an ideal park for boaters and RV campers.

Finley Point is one of Montana's oldest state parks and has been open to the public since July 12th, 1965. The park is known as an excellent fishing location for Lake Trout and Kokanee Salmon. Anglers should note that state and tribal fishing licenses are required for fishing in the area.

Click Here To Access a Map!
Finley Point State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

Looking to boat?

Boaters can rent a slip in the marina, some of which offer electric and water hookups for those camping on their boats. Along with the camping slips, the marina also offers 12 boat slips without electricity.

Camping, boating, and other visitor facilities at Finley Point State Park were recently rebuilt or expanded by WGM Group of Missoula, MT.

Park Activities

Park Features

The new park layout and expanded facilities allow for more visitors to enjoy the park without feeling crowded and reducing impacts on sensitive lakeshore habitat.

Thinking of camping? Finley Point offers 18 RV campsites, seven tent sites and four boat camping slips. Maximum RV length will vary by campsite, so be sure to check out the ReserveAmerica website for additional details. 

MT State Parks Rangers frequently host interpretive storytelling and other special events at the park.  These programs usually take place in the evening and are free to registered campers at the park.  

While in close proximity to Polson and very busy during the summer months, Finley Point’s mature conifer forest helps the campground feel secluded. 

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"One simple word “AMAZING!” We love Finely Point!!"

"Beautiful scenic area, even if it's for a quick stop on your road trip. There was also an amazing massive field of pinkish flowers just on the north end of it when we were there!"

"The site was amazing!! It had amazing views right on the shore."

"Nice sites and many close to the water. Trees, nice base for tents. Dogs ok"

 

Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open April through October

  • pine icon

    Campground

    Open April through October

  • Tree icon

    Dock

    Contact park for availability.
    Dock is unusable when lake level is low. Typically lake level is high enough mid-June through early-September.

    For waves & wind forecast, check NOAA Graphical Flathead Lake Forecast

  • pine icon

    Location

    31453 S. Finley Point Rd. Finley Pt., MT 59806

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Finley Point State Park Read More »

Cooney State Park

Cooney State Park

Cooney State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Head to Cooney State Park, a reservoir 40 minutes south of Billings, to go boating, play in the water, camp, and fish. This is the most popular recreation area serving south-central Montana, and it's always a busy place in the summer!

We are able to bring you valuable information about this amazing state park thanks to the support of:

Visit Billings
Yellowstone Country Logo
Click Here To Access a Map!
Cooney State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to fish?

Cooney has been a state park since October of 1970, and new visitor amenities have been added slowly over time. The 97 ft tall earthen dam on Red Lodge Creek that forms the reservoir was constructed in 1937 as part of a larger irrigation project for nearby farmers and ranchers.

Not only does the park have a gorgeous reservoir, but it has great views of the Beartooth Mountain Range in the background.

Regardless of the season, you’ll find excellent fishing for walleye and rainbow trout. And don’t forget, the Red Lodge Arm has a fish cleaning station!

Planning to bring your boat along? You shouldn’t have any issues finding a place to drop in with three boat docks and ramps surrounding the lake!

Park Activities

Park Features

During the winter, some people enjoy kite-skiing across the lake! 

Camping is plentiful at Cooney State Park, with five campgrounds and 82 campsites, 19 of which have electricity! While the electricity in the campgrounds is on year-round, be aware the water is shut off during the winter months. 

There are also three day-use group areas available around the lake. 

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"Moon coming out on a beautiful night on Cooney, fireworks northeast, south Red Lodge mountain still snow on the runs, people laughing in the distance having fun, winds died so this sailboat not going anywhere, on the hook south of Red lodge camping area wow it really doesn't get any better than this!"

"Park Ranger and the camp host were both really great with answering all our questions and giving directions to camp and nearest local convenience store! The campground is clean and beautiful, right on the lake, but not much shade so come prepared!"

"Every day of fishing is a good day. Mostly with scenery like this."

"It's an awesome place! Boat ramps, fishing, boating swimming, fires and camping! And you can rent kayaks and paddle boards."

 

"Just a little piece of heaven."

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open Year-Round

  • pine icon

    Electricity

    Available

  • pine icon

    Drinking Water

    Available May 15 - September 27.

  • pine icon

    Comfort Stations & Showers

    Flush toilets available May 15 - September 27.

    Metered showers available to all registered campers in Marshall Cove Campground.  Requires 8 quarters for each shower.

  • pine icon

    Docks

    Available May 1 - November 1, weather dependent

  • pine icon

    Location

    86 Lake Shore Road

    Roberts, MT 59070

Parks That Others Are Visiting

Cooney State Park Read More »

Black Sandy State Park 1

Black Sandy State Park

Black Sandy State Park

Black Sandy State Park

Get Directions to Park
pine icon

Black Sandy State Park is an extremely popular weekend boating, fishing, camping, and water skiing location.

You can make reservations up to one day in advance of your arrival date. For same-day availability, try the park office 406-458-3221 to check if any sites are available for that night. There are also boat slips for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Click Here To Access a Map!
Black Sandy State Park
IMG_5965

Download Campsite Map

IMG_5966

Download Park Map

Looking to camp?

Black Sandy State Park has 29 campsites with electricity that you can reserve, and 6 campsites without electricity that are first come-first served.
The maximum trailer length is 35 ft.

There is NO lifeguard on duty at Black Sandy State Park.

Park Activities

Park Features

The dam that forms Hauser reservoir, was built in the early 1900s and named after former governor Samuel Thomas Hauser. The park lies along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area in 1805.

Prior to 1980, Montana Power Company owned the land and operated the park as a recreation area. In 1980, Montana Power turned over management of the park to Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP). In 1982, it was designated a state recreation area. Later on, the land was also turned over to FWP. (via wiki)

Did You Know

Curious what other visitors have had to say about the park?

"Went overnight for tent camping. Nice spot right next to the water. There are 6 tent spots, none of which are bad. RV pads look nice right next to the water."

"Very nice areas, usually less crowded than Canyon Ferry. Make sure you stock up before you go, there aren't any stores close by. Some nice hikes and chances to see some wildlife."

"One of the most beautiful, peaceful places on earth. We only planned to stay one nite but extended for another nite because it was so peacefully and relaxing here."

"This is an excellent location for outdoor recreation. Plus, the staff are super friendly and the facilities are always maintained; very clean! "

 

"Close to helena, well kept but busy most of the time. All kinds of camping, close to a convenience store. State owned therefore inexpensive, and family friendly."

Click Here to View Google Reviews
Quick Facts
  • pine icon

    Park

    Open 24 hours/day all year for day use and camping.

    May 1- Nov 30: electrical hookups available

    Dec 1 - May 1: Limited facilities available

  • pine icon

    Normal Hours

    Winter hours, October 7 - April 13: Open Wed - Sun, 10 am - 4 pm.
    Summer hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm daily; Open until 6:30pm in mid-summer.

  • pine icon

    Location

    6563 Hauser Dam Road
    Helena, MT 59602

Black Sandy State Park Read More »

Skip to content