Beaches in Montana? Absolutely. We might enjoy the lakeshore instead of the ocean here in Big Sky Country, but we have just as much fun as anyone on either coast. If you’d like some quality beach time this summer but don’t want to leave the state, these eight options are right in your (enormous) backyard! Here are some of the most beautiful lakes in Montana with amazing beaches:
Brush Lake is great for swimming, and its shores are great for lounging. This is one of Eastern Montana’s best beaches.
Located on Flathead Lake’s Big Arm Bay, this park has a long pebble beach perfect for soaking up the sun after a nice long swim. Then you can camp under the stars and do it all again the next day.
City Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Montana—and it’s definitely one of the most beautiful. Canoes and paddleboats are available for rent, but they’re not allowed in the swimming area, so you can swim in peace.
You might not think of sandy beaches when you think of Bozeman, but the East Gallatin Recreation Area has a beautiful seashore. The stretch of beach has a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and lots of grass for picnicking or playing catch,
Black Sandy State Park (near Helena) is one of the few public parks on the shores of the Hauser Reservoir, and it has a small swimming beach that’s a popular place to be on a hot summer day.
Cooney Beach is located near Boyd (and about 22 miles from Laurel). Along with swimming, fishing, and boating, beachgoers can enjoy camping nearby.
7. Boettcher Park
Located in Polson, Boettcher City Park is located on the beach of Flathead Lake. Between the lakeside lounging, children’s playground and covered areas for parties, you may have a hard time leaving.
8. Avalanche Lake, Glacier National Park
There is a beautiful beach at the head of Avalanche Lake, but you’ll need to ford a small inlet creek to get there. It’s worth it.
What are your favorite beaches in Montana? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! We love hearing about your favorite places.
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