Makoshika State Park wilderness guide
State Park · MT

Makoshika State Park

Makoshika State Park, Montana's largest state park, offers a stunning exploration of badland landscapes with unique geological formations and a rich fossil history.

State Park11,5383+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

11,538

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Makoshika State Park

Makoshika State Park, Montana's largest state park, offers a stunning exploration of badland landscapes with unique geological formations and a rich fossil history.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Makoshika State Park encompasses over 11,500 acres of awe-inspiring badland formations in eastern Montana. The park is known for its rugged, otherworldly landscapes that include steep canyons, towering cliffs, and scattered hoodoos. Its geology is a window into the Cretaceous period, housing numerous dinosaur fossils, which makes it a significant paleontological site. Not only does the park allure geology enthusiasts, but it also offers extensive recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, pronghorns, and over a hundred bird species, making it an excellent location for wildlife observation. Visitors can also explore the visitor center, which provides educational displays on the park's geological and paleontological significance, as well as the local cultural history. With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, Makoshika provides a chance for adventure in Montana's remarkable natural setting.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Makoshika State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The awe-inspiring vista from the top of the Cap Rock Trail.✦ Exploring the geological formations and fossil sites.✦ The captivating Badlands Amphitheater, ideal for photography.✦ The scenic road leading through stunning landscapes.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Makoshika State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Makoshika State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entry fee applies. No special permits are required except for specific activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Makoshika State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Makoshika Campground

Located near the park entrance, this campground offers basic amenities and easy access to trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Makoshika State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Glendive, Montana
⌖ 5.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glendive, Montana

Glendive, MT offers explorers a unique opportunity to engage with Montana's rugged badlands. From hiking through Makoshika State Park to paddling the Yellowstone River, there's plenty to discover.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Billings, North Dakota
⌖ 56.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Billings, North Dakota

Billings, ND offers a peaceful retreat into nature, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and snowshoeing in quiet open spaces with stunning scenery and solitude.

Medora, North Dakota
⌖ 56.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Medora, North Dakota

Medora, ND, offers thrilling access to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and the iconic Medora Musical. Perfect for adventurers seeking unique encounters with nature and history.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town