7 State Parks to Explore Across Montana

Whether it’s a lakeside camping weekend or a day of Nordic skiing across badlands you’re after, a range of options — including 56 state parks — means you can find your ideal outdoor escape.

1. Sluice Boxes State Park

Central MontanaIf you’re looking for rugged, you’re sure to find it among the limestone cliffs of Sluice Boxes State Park. Just about 45 minutes outside of Great Falls, this area that was once rich in...

2. Big Arm State Park

Glacier CountryThere’s nothing that compares to a day on Flathead Lake, and Big Arm State Park offers visitors camping, hiking, boating and swimming among the ponderosas that line this picturesque mou...

3. Chief Plenty Coups State Park

Indian CountryJust south of Billings, you’ll find Chief Plenty Coups State Park. This National Historic Landmark is a day-use park that’s open year-round, and makes for a great day trip to learn more...

4. Brush Lake State Park

Missouri River CountryReady for a swim? The deep waters of the namesake lake at Brush Lake State Park are perfect for all your favorite water activities, including swimming, boating and waterskiing. T...

5. Makoshika State Park

Southeast MontanaEastern Montana badlands make up Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park. With scenic hiking trails through the unique rock formations, it’s an experience unlike any other...

6. Bannack State Park

Southwest MontanaTucked among rolling hills between the Beaverhead and Pioneer mountains is Bannack State Park, a site for adventure seekers and history buffs alike. Here, you can set up camp in one o...

7. Missouri Headwaters State Park

Yellowstone CountryJust north of Three Forks sits Missouri Headwaters State Park. It marks the convergence of the Jefferson, Gallatin and Madison rivers to create the wide Missouri. There’s plenty to...