Quick Facts
- Population: 239 (2020 Census)
- County: Valley County
- Founded: Trading post established in 1867; current town built in 1934
- Elevation: 2,178 ft
- Known For: Fort Peck Dam, Fort Peck Lake, dinosaur fossils, summer theater
- Nearby Landmarks: Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri River Breaks, Fort Peck Interpretive Center
- Fun Fact: Fort Peck Dam and its construction were featured on the first cover of Life Magazine in November 1936, photographed by Margaret Bourke-White
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Ron Hauge – Emmy-winning writer for The Simpsons, grew up in Fort Peck
- Wayne Hawkins – Pro football player for the Oakland Raiders, born in Fort Peck
- Life Magazine Cover (1936) – Fort Peck Dam featured on the inaugural cover
Top Things to Do in Fort Peck
- ✧ Fort Peck Dam – Marvel at one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world
- ✧ Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum – See Peck's Rex, a T. rex fossil, and learn about local paleontology
- ✧ Fort Peck Lake – World-class fishing, boating, and water recreation
- ✧ Fort Peck Summer Theatre – Professional productions in a historic 1934 theater
Local Industry & Economy
Fort Peck's economy centers on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (dam operations), tourism, recreation, and small businesses serving visitors. Fishing, boating, and camping on Fort Peck Lake are major draws. The historic theater and interpretive center support cultural tourism. Agriculture is important in the surrounding region.
History & Heritage
Fort Peck began as a trading post in 1867 and grew dramatically during the 1930s with the construction of the Fort Peck Dam. The dam was a Depression-era engineering marvel, and its construction was featured on the first cover of Life Magazine. The town preserves its history through museums, the theater, and interpretive exhibits.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and summer theater. Powerhouse tours at the dam.
- Fall/Winter: Hunting, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
- Annual Events: Governor's Cup Walleye Tournament (July), Shakespeare in the Parks, Hell Creek Fishing Tournament (June), Fourth of July Celebration.
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Fort Peck is 20 miles southeast of Glasgow, MT, via Highway 24. From Billings: 4.5 hours (270 mi). Nearby: Glasgow, Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri River Breaks, Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Where to Stay in Fort Peck
- Fort Peck Hotel: Historic 1930s hotel with remodeled rooms
- Downstream Campground: Modern camping near the dam
- Pines Campground: Scenic camping southwest of the dam
- Glasgow: Additional hotels and motels 20 miles northwest