Makoshika State Park

About

Makoshika State Park encompasses over 11,000 acres of dramatic badlands terrain east of Glendive, making it Montana's largest state park. The landscape features colorful sandstone formations, pine and juniper woodlands, and exposed strata from the Hell Creek Formation that have produced significant dinosaur fossils including Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops specimens. The park offers scenic drives, extensive hiking and biking trails, an interpretive center, and an outdoor amphitheater. The campground contains 28 sites distributed across multiple loops. The main Cains Coulee loop near the park entrance includes pull-through sites suitable for RVs, while the Upper Campsites and Pine on Rocks loops offer more secluded primitive camping higher in the badlands. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Facilities include both flush and vault toilets and potable water year-round, but no hookups, showers, or dump station. Tipis and yurts are also available for those seeking unique accommodations. The park supports diverse wildlife including mule deer, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the trails, while summer evenings at the amphitheater and stargazing opportunities make overnight stays memorable. The surrounding badlands take on dramatic colors at sunrise and sunset.

Directions

From Glendive, Montana, head south on Snyder Avenue. The park entrance is located at 1301 Snyder Avenue, approximately 1 mile from downtown.