7 Lesser-Known State Parks In Montana That Will Absolutely Amaze You
While Glacier National Park is certainly Montana’s crown jewel, the Treasure State also has plenty of fantastic state parks perfect for those who want to spend time in nature. The following is a list of beautiful yet lesser-known state parks in Montana to visit. A trip to any of these beautiful natural spaces will undoubtedly renew your appreciation for our great state. Ready to start exploring? Let’s go!
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1. Giant Springs State Park
Giant Springs State Park, 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA
Our list of lesser-known state parks to visit in Montana begins with Giant Springs State Park. Located in Great Falls, Giant Springs State Park is home to the world's smallest river, The Roe. Take a stroll by the Missouri River, visit the fish hatchery and visitor center, walk along the Rivers Edge Trail, and check out the Rainbow Falls overlook. Here's more on what makes Giant Springs State Park such a hidden gem.
2. Makoshika State Park
Makoshika State Park Road, Makoshika State Park Rd, Glendive, MT 59330, USA
It's unfortunate that many Montanans are unaware that this Eastern Montana gem exists. There's no better way to explore the badlands that by traversing through this fossil-filled park. In fact, some would argue that Makoshika State Park is the single best state park in all of Montana.
3. Lone Pine State Park
Lone Pine State Park, 300 Lone Pine Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
Lone Pine is located in Kalispell on the shores of Foys Lake, and the views of the city are fantastic. This is an underrated and often overlooked area. Even during the winter months, Lone Pine State Park makes for an excellent Montana day trip destination.
4. Missouri Headwaters State Park
Missouri Headwaters State Park, 1585 Trident Rd, Three Forks, MT 59752, USA
This park holds the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers, and it was once a camping spot for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This park is located in Three Forks, and many Montanans drive right by without even realizing it's there. Learn more about what makes Missouri Headwaters State Park such a must-see destination.
5. Wild Horse Island State Park
Wild Horse Island State Park, Big Arm, MT 59910, USA
Did you know this gorgeous Flathead Lake Island is actually a state park? While you're more likely to see other wildlife than wild horses, you never know what you'll spot on this little piece of paradise. Learn more about planning a visit to the gorgeous Wild Horse Island State Park.
6. Clark's Lookout State Park
Clarks Lookout State Park, 950 Lovers Leap Rd, Dillon, MT 59725, USA
Located in Dillon, Clark's Lookout allows you to stand exactly where William Clark stood in 1805 and imagine what the area must have looked like back then. This park is a historic treasure. When it comes to lesser-known state parks to visit in Montana, Clark's Lookout is bound to impress.
7. Black Sandy State Park
Black Sandy State Park, 6563 Hauser Dam Rd, Helena, MT 59602, USA
You'll find Black Sandy State Park about 15 miles north of Helena. It sits nestled on the shores of Hauser Lake, and it's a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Despite being one of the smaller state parks in Montana, Black Sandy State Park offers lots to do.
What are your thoughts on our list of the best, most underrated state parks to visit in Montana? Are there any that you would add to the list? Feel free to let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! Nothing compared to the natural beauty of the Treasure State. Here’s why we think Montana is the best state. And while we’re on the topic of beautiful natural destinations, you’ll want to be sure to check out our Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To Montana’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes, And More!
Address: Giant Springs State Park, 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA
Address: Makoshika State Park Road, Makoshika State Park Rd, Glendive, MT 59330, USA
Address: Lone Pine State Park, 300 Lone Pine Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
Address: Missouri Headwaters State Park, 1585 Trident Rd, Three Forks, MT 59752, USA
Address: Wild Horse Island State Park, Big Arm, MT 59910, USA
Address: Clarks Lookout State Park, 950 Lovers Leap Rd, Dillon, MT 59725, USA
Address: Black Sandy State Park, 6563 Hauser Dam Rd, Helena, MT 59602, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in Montana
January 10, 2022
Beth C.
Does Montana have any hidden gems?
There are attractions in Montana that seem to be known the world over. And it’s no surprise, given just how astounding the Treasure State’s natural wonders are. But if you’re looking for the places that are a bit more off-the-beaten-path, we’ve got you covered. In our humble opinion, these are the kinds of places that give Montana so much charm and character. At the top of the list would be Yaak Valley. Technically considered to be a rainforest, this northwestern Montana destination is a treasure trove of wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and camping spots. Next up on the list would be a trip to the world’s shortest river, known as the Roe River. It’s located just outside of Great Falls and measures just a little over 200 feet. How incredible is that? Some other hidden gems worth seeking out include the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, the City Underneath Havre, Polebridge, Judith Gap, the Boiling River, Moss Mansion Museum, the Ptarmigan Tunnel, the Cathedral of St. Helena, the Prairie County Museum in Terry, the Ringing Rocks, and Daniels County Museum and Pioneer Town. For more information, check out our previous article: Most People Don’t Know These 15 Hidden Gems In Montana Even Exist.
Address: Giant Springs State Park, 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA
Address: Makoshika State Park Road, Makoshika State Park Rd, Glendive, MT 59330, USA
Address: Lone Pine State Park, 300 Lone Pine Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
Address: Missouri Headwaters State Park, 1585 Trident Rd, Three Forks, MT 59752, USA
Address: Wild Horse Island State Park, Big Arm, MT 59910, USA
Address: Clarks Lookout State Park, 950 Lovers Leap Rd, Dillon, MT 59725, USA
Address: Black Sandy State Park, 6563 Hauser Dam Rd, Helena, MT 59602, USA
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Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
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