Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Milltown State Park adventure.
Discover Milltown State Park's rivers, trails, and rich history.
Embarking on a Milltown State Park camping expedition opens up a world of history, nature, and outdoor adventures. From insightful interpretive displays to numerous camping opportunities, the park embodies a unique merger of cultural heritage and nature's bounty. Stretching across 500 acres, the terrain varies dramatically, from rejuvenated river bottoms to a pine-clad bluff, providing campers with a rich assortment of experiences.
A hike or bike ride around the park reveals the profound imprint of history and geology. The Glacial Lake Missoula floods left their mark thousands of years ago, shaping the stunning landscapes that campers admire today. The Salish and Kalispell remember the convergence of the Clark Fork and Blackfoot Rivers as the place of bull trout, marking an important segment of their ancestral home. From these times to the more recent history when the rivers were harnessed for power, the park tells a captivating tale of change and adaptation.
The Park has abundant opportunities for recreational activities, including fishing and floating on the rivers, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The Milltown State Park Overlook, complete with interpretive displays and picnic tables, is a popular destination. Nearly three miles of hiking trails wind their way from the overlook down to the Clark Fork River and its floodplain trails, providing ample space for exploration and connection with nature.
The narrative of the Milltown Dam removal and the rivers' restoration represents a tale of hope. It allows visitors to explore America's evolving relationship with the land while demonstrating the benefits of river restoration for Montana's families and communities. Camping near Milltown State Park presents a delightful blend of historical insight, nature connection, and outdoor fun.
Milltown State Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. Summer months are perfect for river activities and hiking, while the cooler fall season boasts stunning foliage. Winter provides a quiet, frosty landscape, ideal for nature photography. Note that some areas may have restricted access due to seasonal hours or geologic activity.