The 5 Largest State Parks in Montana

5. Wild Horse Island State Park

Wild Horse Island State Park, covering 2,160 acres in Big Arm, Montana, is number five on our list of largest Montana state parks. However, in addition to its size, there are two other factors that make this park truly unique: it’s only accessible by boat and there are still a handful of wild horses that inhabit the park. Wild Horse Island is located in Flathead Lake, one of the top 10 clearest lakes in the United States. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and swimming, as well as observe songbirds, waterfowl, bald eagles, falcons, bighorn sheep, and mule deer that call the area home.

4. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Fourth on the list of Montana’s largest state parks is Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. This 3,015-acre park is home to the most highly-decorated limestone caverns in all of North America and one of the largest limestone caverns in the Northwest. However, the caverns can only be accessed by guided tours. So, visit their website ahead of time to check availability and purchase tickets. In addition to the caverns, visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, and camping, as well as a variety of educational events held through the summer events. Lastly, in addition to the famous geologic wonders, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is Montana’s first and best-known state park.

3. Rosebud Battlefield State Park

Montana’s third largest park isn’t just a big deal within the state – it’s also a national historic landmark. Rosebud Battlefield State Park is a rolling prairie located in Decker, Montana, and covers 3,052 acres. This gorgeous site is most well-known for the Battle of the Rosebud, which took place on June 17, 1876. The Battle of the Rosebud was part of the Great Sioux War, known as the most significant Indian struggle in American history. This battle was a significant victory for Native Americans and is noteworthy because the Native Americans fought together intensely as an army to defend their land. Due to their defeat at the Battle of the Rosebud, Brigadier General George Crook and his troops were unable to participate in the Battle of Little Bighorn, which also resulted in a loss that shocked the nation.

In addition to surrounding you in rich history, Rosebud Battlefield State Park is a mostly untouched, quiet, and remote park, offering opportunities for visitors to picnic, hike, and watch wildlife. Take in the beautiful views at various historical sites, such as Crook’s Hill, Conical Hill, and the Kobold Buffalo Jump.

2. Fish Creek State Park

Our second-place park, Fish Creek State Park in Mineral County, Montana, covers more than 5,600 acres and is a stronghold for Montana’s native trout. In addition to bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout, Fish Creek is also home to wild rainbow and brown trouts. Outside of the water, Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks estimates that 113 bird, 47 mammal, three amphibian, and four reptile species call the park home. Visitors to Fish Creek can appreciate picturesque views from Williams Peak and enjoy watching wildlife around the crystal-clear, emerald pools. Spend time fishing, camping, hiking, hunting, berry picking, and horseback riding year-round in this quiet and secluded environment. Lastly, the largest ponderosa pine in the state is also in Fish Creek State Park!

1. Makoshika State Park

Finally, at number one, we have Makoshika State Park, located in Glendive, Montana. At 11,538 acres, this park is a behemoth – but that’s not the reason it’s so popular with visitors. If you can brave the sweltering heat and sizzling sun, Makoshika State Park will reward you with stunning views of badlands formations and allow you to step back in time. This park is home to not only the remains of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, but also a Triceratops! Check out these and much more at their various paleontology displays and activities as part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail. In addition to dinosaurs, Makoshika State Park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, camping, a picnic area, and an outdoor amphitheater. However, when you visit, make sure you watch out for rattlesnakes!