Fort Peck Lake is the largest man-made lake in Montana and the fifth-largest in the United States, offering vast open waters.
Put-in / access: Fort Peck Marina (48.0058, -106.4186) or Hell Creek State Park (47.6183, -106.8853)
Difficulty: Flatwater to open-water extreme
Mileage: 134 miles long, 1,520 miles of shoreline
Season: June through September.
Hazards: Extreme wind, massive waves, and absolute remoteness.
Permits: None for paddling.
Guided trips: No.
Camping: Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge and State Parks.
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Fort Peck
- Difficulty: Flatwater/Beginner (can be challenging with high winds)
- Season: May-September
- Mileage: 134 miles (length of the reservoir)
- Permits & fees: No specific permits or fees are required for non-motorized kayaking and paddleboarding. Camping fees apply if staying overnight in designated campgrounds.
- Hazards: Fort Peck Lake is a large body of water prone to strong winds and sudden thunderstorms, which can create hazardous conditions. There are also few places to go ashore in some areas, increasing exposure. Always wear a PFD and check weather conditions.
- Guided trips: Rentals are available from Montana Paddle Co. near Fort Peck Lake, but guided trips are not explicitly mentioned.
- Camping: Numerous camping options are available at Fort Peck Project, including developed campgrounds with amenities and primitive sites. Prices range from $15-$250 per night depending on the site and amenities. Examples include West End Tent and Trailer Campground, Downstream (MT), and Pines Recreation Shelter. Confirm current flows, closures, AIS inspections, and land-manager rules before you put in. Cold water and wood hazards kill—this guide is informational, not instruction.