Montana’s largest state park features badland formations and the fossil remains of Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, and other prehistoric life. In addition to the pine and juniper studded badland formations, the park also houses many fossil remains.
Montana’s largest state park features badland formations and the fossil remains of Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, and other prehistoric life. Visitors are asked not to bring metal detectors, and no digging, collecting, or removal of fossils and artifacts is allowed. Current restrictions and closures can be found on the FWP website.
Montana State Parks camping sits between wild Forest Service sites and private RV parks: clearer rules, maintained facilities, and often water or showers, while still keeping you close to the landscape the park was created to protect.
Nearest town: Glendive. Elevation about 2500 feet.
Campground snapshot
- Agency / unit: FWP — State Parks
- Sites: 28
- Type: Tent/RV
- Fee range: $4-$34
- Season: Year round
- Reservations: ReserveAmerica
- Best for: Badlands dinosaur fossils
Amenities
ADA Accessible, Childrens Activities, 11 Designated Hiking Trails, Disc Golf, Established Fire Pits, Firewood for Sale, Gift Shop, Grills/Fire Rings, Interpretive Display, Maps, Outdoor Ampitheater, Parking, Pets Allowed, Picnic Shelter, Pack-in/Pack-out, Public Restroom, Toilets (Flush), Toilets (Vault), Trash Cans, Water
How to book
Montana State Parks camping generally books through ReserveAmerica. Peak season is typically late May through mid-September. Confirm cabin/yurt options and current fees on the park page. Official listing: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/makoshika.
Bear country & campcraft
Keep a clean camp even on the plains and eastern reservoirs. Store food and trash securely, and follow any posted food-storage orders.
Campfires belong only in provided metal rings when restrictions allow. Drown, stir, and feel the ashes with the back of your hand before leaving or sleeping. In Stage II restrictions, open fires are banned even in developed sites—use a shut-off stove only.
Follow Leave No Trace: camp on durable surfaces, pack out everything you pack in, and leave the site cleaner than you found it.
Plan the rest of the trip
- Camping reference: reservations, bears, and fire rules
- Open this stop on the Backroads Guided Trails map
- Campgrounds directory
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Glendive
- Focus: State Park
- Coordinates: 47.0789, -104.7083
- Access note: Confirm road conditions, water availability, and fire restrictions before arrival. Mountain weather can drop below freezing even in midsummer.
- Legal reminder: Follow agency food-storage orders, stay within designated sites in developed camps, and respect private land and tribal boundaries.