Best Beaches in Montana

Avalanche Lake is nestled within the breathtaking Glacier National Park in Montana, offering a serene alpine experience. The lake is surrounded by a stunning glacier-carved landscape, with crystal-clear waters and a shoreline adorned with rocky patches and pebble-lined areas. The area is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, wildlife watching, fishing, and photography being popular pastimes. The nearby Trail of the Cedars provides an additional scenic hiking option, while the Sperry Glacier Trail offers a more challenging adventure for experienced hikers.
The lake's unique setting, with towering mountains like Bearhat Mountain and the Little Matterhorn, creates a picturesque backdrop for any visit. The surrounding forests are rich with wildlife, including deer and bears, making it essential to be bear-aware during hikes.
Avalanche Lake is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil and awe-inspiring natural experience within Glacier National Park.

Black Sandy State Park is a picturesque destination located on the western shore of Hauser Lake reservoir, an impoundment of the Missouri River, approximately 13 miles northeast of Helena, Montana. The park offers a serene and natural setting, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, adding to its historical significance. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and water skiing. The park's unique name comes from the black sand found on the north side of the lake.

The park is open year-round, providing opportunities for both summer and winter activities. It is a popular spot for camping, with 29 campsites available, some of which offer electrical hookups. The scenic views of Hauser Lake and the surrounding landscape make it an ideal place for photography and wildlife viewing.

Black Sandy State Park is also known for its significant concentration of Bald Eagles during August, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The park's proximity to Helena allows visitors to easily access local amenities and attractions while still enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Boettcher Park, located in Polson, Montana, is a picturesque beachside park on the shores of Flathead Lake. It offers a serene escape for nature lovers and families, featuring a new children's playground, three covered areas suitable for events like weddings and family reunions, and an outdoor cafe called 'The Boardwalk' that has been a local favorite for over 35 years. The park provides both full sun and shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for picnics or relaxation. Its proximity to the Polson Golf Course and Port Polson Theatre adds to its appeal.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lake, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts. The park hosts various community events and activities throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals that celebrate local culture.
Whether you are looking to unwind with a good book or engage in outdoor activities, Boettcher Park has something for everyone.

Bozeman Pond Park is a vibrant recreational spot located near the Gallatin Valley Mall in Bozeman, Montana. It offers a variety of activities and amenities, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a large trout-stocked pond, a fenced dog park, a natural playground, picnic pavilions, and walking trails. Visitors can enjoy fishing, biking, and walking along the 2.5 miles of trails, which include gravel, asphalt, and concrete pathways. The park also hosts a basketball court, sand volleyball courts, and a climbing boulder, providing something for everyone.
The park's unique blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities makes it an ideal spot for picnics, family outings, and community events. The large pavilion can be reserved for special occasions, adding to the park's appeal as a community hub.
Bozeman Pond Park is easily accessible, with two parking lots and public restrooms available year-round. Its proximity to downtown Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley Mall makes it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors.

Brush Lake State Park is located in Sheridan County, Montana, about four miles east of Dagmar. The park surrounds three sides of the 280-acre Brush Lake, known for its deep, clear waters and white sandy beaches. It offers a serene environment with grass fields and linear stands of spring wheat, making it a perfect spot for family outings and nature lovers. The park is open from May 1 to December 1, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning night skies, as the area is renowned for its minimal light pollution.
The park's history dates back to the early 20th century when it became a popular gathering place for local communities. Over time, it evolved into a state park in 2004, offering a variety of recreational activities. Despite its mineral-rich waters, Brush Lake does not support fish life, but it is ideal for other water sports.
The park's remote location adds to its charm, making it a great escape from urban life. With its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, Brush Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience in Montana.

City Beach in Whitefish, Montana, is a picturesque destination nestled along the shores of Whitefish Lake. This glacial-fed public beach offers a serene blend of soft sand, grassy areas, and stunning mountain vistas. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach is especially noted for its breathtaking sunset views, making it a photographer's paradise. With its shallow entry and designated swimming area, it's also an ideal place for families. The surrounding area hosts various events throughout the summer, adding to the lively atmosphere.

The beach is part of a larger ecosystem that includes the Whitefish River and offers opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Montana. Visitors can enjoy picnics under gazebos, rent equipment for water sports, or simply relax and soak in the scenery. The proximity to downtown Whitefish allows for easy access to local amenities and attractions.

Overall, City Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique charm of Montana's lakeside beauty.

Cooney Reservoir, located in Roberts, Montana, is a popular recreational area offering a variety of activities such as boating, swimming, camping, and fishing. It is situated about 40 minutes south of Billings and is known for its excellent walleye and rainbow trout fishing. The reservoir is surrounded by the scenic Beartooth Mountain Range, providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Cooney Reservoir State Park covers over 300 acres and offers numerous amenities for visitors, making it a bustling spot during the summer months.
The reservoir was originally created as part of an irrigation project and has since become a key destination for those seeking outdoor adventures in south-central Montana. With its diverse range of activities and stunning natural surroundings, Cooney Reservoir is an ideal place for families and nature lovers alike.
Visitors can enjoy the serene environment and engage in activities like hiking, bird watching, and water sports, making it a versatile destination for all seasons.

Cosley Lake Campground is nestled in the heart of Glacier National Park, offering a serene lakeside retreat amidst the majestic beauty of Montana's wilderness. Located near Browning, this campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure. It features four campsites, each with direct access to the lake, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance. The campground is accessible via a scenic 8-9 mile hike from the Belly River trailhead, making it an ideal destination for backpackers and nature lovers alike.

Cosley Lake is renowned for its picturesque setting, with the lake's blue hues contrasting beautifully against the red stones lining its shores. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere, explore the surrounding wilderness, and experience the unique wildlife of the area. The campground offers a community picnic area and an enclosed privy, though it lacks modern amenities like showers or potable water.

For those planning to visit, it's essential to obtain backcountry permits and be prepared for bear country, carrying bear spray and practicing proper food storage. The early-season availability makes it a perfect spot for May backpacking excursions, offering a chance to experience Glacier National Park's less crowded trails.

Flathead Lake State Park, located near Polson, Montana, is a stunning natural destination offering a variety of outdoor activities. The park is part of the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, covering over 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline. It is composed of six units: Big Arm, West Shore, Wayfarers, Yellow Bay, Finley Point, and Wild Horse Island. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding towns of Kalispell, Bigfork, and Polson provide additional amenities and attractions.
The park's scenic beauty includes glacially carved rock formations and picturesque views of the Swan and Mission Mountains. Wild Horse Island, accessible only by boat, offers unique hiking trails and historic sites. The area is also known for its vibrant cherry orchards and annual festivals.
With its diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities, Flathead Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Fort Peck Lake, located in northeastern Montana, is a vast reservoir created by the Fort Peck Dam, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Spanning 134 miles with over 1,520 miles of shoreline, it is the largest lake in Montana and a haven for wildlife within the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge. The lake's rugged landscape, featuring grassy hills and bluffs, contrasts beautifully with its blue waters, providing a serene yet adventurous experience for visitors.
The area around Fort Peck Lake is known for its remote and untouched beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and connection with nature. Activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking are popular, while the nearby Fort Peck Dam and town offer historical insights and cultural attractions.
Despite its remote location, Fort Peck Lake is accessible via several back roads, though a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during wet conditions.

Lake McDonald, nestled in Glacier National Park, Montana, is a breathtaking natural wonder. Stretching over 10 miles in length and nearly 500 feet deep, it is the largest lake in the park, carved by massive glaciers during the last Ice Age. The lake's crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, creating a picturesque backdrop. Surrounded by dense forests of cedar, pine, and hemlock, Lake McDonald offers a serene environment for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The lake is home to various species of fish, including native west slope cutthroat trout, making it a paradise for anglers. Additionally, the park offers hiking trails that lead to mesmerizing viewpoints, such as the Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake.
The area is renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, wolves, bears, mountain goats, and elk, providing frequent sightings for visitors.

Lost Johnny Point Campground is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, west of the Continental Divide and near the Canadian border. It offers stunning views and is situated on the shores of Hungry Horse Reservoir, a massive body of water known for its boating and fishing opportunities. The campground provides a serene escape with its 21 campsites, each equipped with tables and campfire rings. It is a popular spot for those seeking outdoor adventures like boating, swimming, and fishing, with species such as cutthroat trout and whitefish available. The proximity to Glacier National Park, about 18 miles away, makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
The campground is surrounded by lush timber and offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds, with a camp host available for assistance. The scenic backdrop of the Hungry Horse Reservoir, which is the 10th highest dam in the United States, adds to the natural beauty of the area. Wildlife such as lynx and grizzly bears inhabit the surrounding forest, making it a unique destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking and exploring the nearby attractions like the West Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park. The campground operates from mid-May to the end of September, with the best season being June, July, and August.

Silos Recreation Area, located on Canyon Ferry Lake near Winston, Montana, offers a rugged yet inviting outdoor experience along the Missouri River. Operated by the Bureau of Reclamation and managed locally, this destination features 77 dry camping sites, expansive lake views, and a no-frills atmosphere that appeals to boaters, anglers, and campers seeking open skies and easy water access. Known for its sun-drenched surroundings and occasional winds, the area provides a mix of RV-friendly spaces and tent sites, with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings fostering a communal, adventurous vibe.
The marina’s proximity to Broadwater Bay and recent infrastructure upgrades, including expanded boat launch facilities, make it a hub for water-based recreation. While vegetation is sparse, the sweeping landscapes and accessibility to day-use activities like swimming and picnicking draw visitors year-round, even during ice-fishing season.

Somers Beach State Park is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Flathead Lake in Montana. It offers a serene blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, featuring expansive sandy beaches, lush green spaces, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Jewel Basin and Mission Mountains. The park is ideal for nature lovers, providing diverse ecosystems where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, enjoy a picnic, or engage in water activities like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding, Somers Beach State Park has something for everyone. The park is open year-round, offering different outdoor activities in every season.

The park's unique landscape includes about half a mile of lakeshore access, with a spacious sandy beach accessible during lower lake levels. It also features rocky shorelines and expansive wetlands, making it a haven for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. Somers Beach State Park is Montana's newest state park, officially opening in 2021, and it continues to develop with plans for additional amenities like trails and picnic areas.

The park's tranquil environment and recreational offerings make it a hidden gem in Montana, captivating the hearts of all who visit. With its serene atmosphere and stunning landscapes, it's an ideal location to unwind and connect with nature.

Wayfarers State Park is a picturesque destination located on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake, near the charming town of Bigfork, Montana. The park spans 67 acres and offers a serene atmosphere amidst a mature mixed forest, making it ideal for camping and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake, especially during sunset, and explore the area's vibrant wildflowers from spring to late fall. The park's proximity to Bigfork provides easy access to local amenities like restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

The park is well-equipped with facilities such as a boat launch, RV dump station, and both flush and vault toilets. It offers a variety of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby town of Bigfork adds to the appeal with its Summer Playhouse, golf courses, and private resorts.

Wayfarers State Park is open year-round, with the campground operating from April to October. The park's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Montana's natural splendor.

Whitefish Lake, nestled in the picturesque town of Whitefish, Montana, offers a serene and scenic getaway. The lake spans over 3,300 acres and stretches for seven miles, providing ample space for water sports and activities. City Beach, located on the southern end of the lake, is a popular spot with a sandy shoreline and nearby grassy areas perfect for picnics and relaxation. The area is surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, paddleboarding, and fishing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The sunset views at City Beach are particularly stunning, with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the sky.

The lake's crystal-clear waters come from the melting snow of the surrounding mountains, adding to its natural beauty and ecological significance. It serves as a habitat for various wildlife species and offers a unique blend of recreation and nature. Whether you're looking to build sandcastles, take a brisk swim, or simply enjoy the scenery, City Beach is a must-visit during your Montana vacation.

Whitefish Lake is also close to Glacier National Park, making it an excellent side trip for those exploring the region. The town of Whitefish offers a charming blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.