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Montana
12

Montana State Parks

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Missouri Country Region
Makoshika State Park
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Makoshika State Park © Ben Prepelka
Makoshika State Park © Ben Prepelka
Makoshika State Park © Ben Prepelka
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MAKOSHIKA STATE PARK
MAKOSHIKA STATE PARK
PO Box 1242
Glendive, Montana   59330

Phone: 406-377-6256
Email: park email button icon
Makoshika (Ma-ko-shi-ka) The name is a variant spelling of the Lakota phrase meaning bad land or bad spirits. Today the badlands of Makoshika are set aside for visitors to see and enjoy. In addition to the pine and juniper studded badlands formations, the park also houses the fossil remains of such dinosaurs as tyrannosaurus and triceratops. A Visitor Information Center at the park entrance houses a triceratops skull and other badlands interpretive displays. Included within the park are archery and shooting ranges as well as scenic drives and nature trails, a campground with 16 sites, a group picnic area, an outdoor ampitheater and many picnic sites. The largest of Montana's State Parks encompasses 11,531 acres at an elevation of 2,069 feet.

The park offers a visitors center, both flush and vault toilets, grills/fire rings, picnic tables, outdoor amphitheater and group use shelter, trash cans, drinking water, interpretive displays, a Frisbee golf course and special events throughout the summer. A golf course and museum are located nearby in Glendive. Visitors may camp 14 days during a 30-day period with a fee.

Water is only available May through September.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
WinterActivitiesyes


Location
Makoshika State Park is

Picnicking
1. Makoshika State Park offers numerous picnic tables throughout the park.
2. Enjoy a meal with scenic views at Cap Rock Nature Trail's picnic area.
3. The visitor center has an outdoor patio perfect for picnicking.
4. Picnic shelters are available on first-come, first-served basis or can be reserved in advance for larger groups.
5. There is also a group-use pavilion equipped with grills and electricity ideal for family gatherings or parties.

Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts should exercise caution due to the park's rugged terrain. The trails are not specifically designed for biking.

The Caprock Coulee Nature Trail is a popular choice, but it can be challenging with steep inclines and declines.

Remember that some paths may have loose gravel or sand which could make cycling difficult and potentially dangerous.

It's important to note that off-road biking isn't allowed in order to protect natural resources within the area.

Always wear appropriate safety gear when riding through this region as accidents can occur on uneven surfaces.

Check weather conditions before setting out since sudden changes might affect trail quality significantly.

Respect wildlife you encounter during your ride; maintain distance and avoid disturbing them whenever possible.

Lastly, always carry water while exploring these routes because of potential high temperatures during summer months.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 10 Quiet Solitude
park review stars; one to five Makoshika is a wonderful place to experience the quiet of MT. The formations are beautiful and there are a lot of neat landscapes to explore.
September 29 Along the Makoshika badlands! by wagonfullofflowers
park review stars; one to five I recommend this in the spring and summer months. I visited this in mid september when the greenery and rattlers are active. I think this is a beautiful and unique place. The hills tell a history of erosion. I visited when they were working on the water in town, so I stayed in town. The place is well marked(as long as construction detour you in right direction). I had to ask for directions around construction crew, but you will not have this problem, so enjoy!
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Directions
Makoshika State Park is located 1/4 mile southeast of Glendive. Take I-94 Glendive Exits and follow signs two to three miles through town to Makoshika State Park. Makoshika is adjacent to the southeast city limits.

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Montana
12

Montana State Parks

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