Montana is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged wilderness, and abundant outdoor recreation. While national parks like Yellowstone and Glacier get most of the attention, Montana's state parks offer equally stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and incredible opportunities for adventure. Whether you're looking for hiking, fishing, camping, or just a peaceful escape, these state parks in Montana provide the perfect setting. Here’s our ranking of the top 10 state parks in Montana, complete with details on activities, accessibility, and how to get there.
1. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
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Location: Near Three Forks, MT
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Best For: Cave exploration, hiking, camping
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Open: Year-round, but cave tours run from May to September
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Website: Lewis & Clark Caverns
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Directions: Located off Highway 2, about 45 minutes west of Bozeman.
Montana’s first state park is home to one of the most extensive limestone caverns in the Northwest. Take a guided tour through the caves to witness breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and underground passageways. Above ground, explore hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Jefferson River Valley.
2. Makoshika State Park
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Location: Near Glendive, MT
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Best For: Hiking, fossil hunting, photography
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Makoshika State Park
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Directions: Located in eastern Montana off Highway 94.
This stunning badlands park is a must-see for anyone interested in dinosaurs and geology. Makoshika, Montana’s largest state park, is home to fossilized remains of T-Rex and Triceratops. The rugged landscape is perfect for hiking and photography, with surreal rock formations around every bend.
3. Flathead Lake State Park
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Location: Near Bigfork, MT
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Best For: Boating, fishing, swimming, camping
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Flathead Lake State Park
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Directions: Multiple units around Flathead Lake, accessible via Highway 93 and Highway 35.
With crystal-clear waters and incredible mountain views, Flathead Lake is a paradise for water lovers. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are top activities. Several campgrounds and picnic areas make it an excellent family-friendly destination.
4. Giant Springs State Park
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Location: Great Falls, MT
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Best For: Walking trails, birdwatching, history
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Giant Springs State Park
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Directions: Located just outside Great Falls along the Missouri River.
Home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country, Giant Springs State Park offers a peaceful retreat with scenic trails and historic sites. Visit the Roe River, one of the shortest rivers in the world, and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center nearby.
5. Bannack State Park
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Location: Near Dillon, MT
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Best For: Ghost town exploration, history buffs
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Bannack State Park
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Directions: South of Dillon, accessible via MT-278.
Step back in time at Montana’s best-preserved ghost town. Once a thriving gold rush town, Bannack is now a fascinating historical site with well-preserved buildings and an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. Visit during Bannack Days in July for reenactments and events.
6. Thompson Falls State Park
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Location: Near Thompson Falls, MT
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Best For: Fishing, camping, hiking
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Thompson Falls State Park
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Directions: Off Highway 200 in northwestern Montana.
A hidden gem in the Montana wilderness, this park is perfect for a peaceful getaway. Enjoy fishing in the Clark Fork River, hiking through lush forests, or camping under the stars.
7. Pictograph Cave State Park
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Location: Near Billings, MT
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Best For: Archaeology, hiking, history
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Pictograph Cave State Park
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Directions: Just 5 miles south of Billings on Coburn Road.
This small but fascinating park is home to prehistoric cave paintings dating back thousands of years. Walk the interpretive trail and learn about the ancient inhabitants who once called this area home.
8. Lone Pine State Park
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Location: Near Kalispell, MT
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Best For: Scenic views, hiking, wildlife spotting
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Lone Pine State Park
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Directions: Just southwest of Kalispell, accessible via Foy's Lake Road.
For some of the best views in the Flathead Valley, Lone Pine State Park offers excellent hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits. In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
9. Missouri Headwaters State Park
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Location: Near Three Forks, MT
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Best For: History, hiking, camping
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Missouri Headwaters State Park
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Directions: North of I-90, near Three Forks.
This park marks the official start of the Missouri River, a historically significant site where Lewis & Clark once camped. Hike along the riverbanks, enjoy a picnic, or camp under the stars.
10. Cooney State Park
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Location: Near Roberts, MT
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Best For: Boating, fishing, camping
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Open: Year-round
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Website: Cooney State Park
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Directions: South of Billings, off Highway 212.
Cooney Reservoir is a popular spot for water sports, with opportunities for boating, water skiing, and some of the best fishing in the area. It’s a favorite weekend getaway for locals.
Plan Your Adventure to Montana’s State Parks
Montana's state parks offer endless opportunities for adventure, history, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring limestone caverns, hiking through badlands, or boating on pristine lakes, there’s something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your next visit and discover the beauty of the Treasure State’s hidden gems.