Best LGBTQ Beaches in Montana

Sacajawea Park in Polson, Montana, is a serene and picturesque destination that combines natural beauty with recreational activities. Located along the shores of Flathead Lake, the park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters. It features expansive green lawns, scenic walking trails, and a vibrant playground, making it an ideal spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor fun, while birdwatchers can appreciate the diverse birdlife in the area. The park is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, providing ample time for exploration and relaxation.

The park's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is most favorable. Local events and festivals often take place here, adding to the park's lively atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, Sacajawea Park is a must-visit destination in Polson.

The park's proximity to Flathead Lake also offers opportunities for fishing and boating, further enhancing its appeal as a recreational hub. With its well-maintained facilities and beautiful landscapes, Sacajawea Park is a cherished gem in the heart of Polson.

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.

Finley Point State Park, located on the southern end of Flathead Lake in Montana, offers a serene and secluded getaway. The park is nestled within a mature Ponderosa pine forest, providing a tranquil atmosphere for campers and nature enthusiasts. With 18 campsites, including options for both tent and RV camping, visitors can enjoy the beautiful lake views and engage in activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. The park is open from May to September, making it a perfect summer destination for those seeking outdoor adventures.

The park's proximity to Polson, Montana, allows easy access to local amenities and attractions. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which includes other state parks and cultural sites, enhancing their overall experience. The park's setting within the Flathead Nation also offers insights into Native American culture.

Finley Point State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with frequent sightings of deer and other local fauna. The park's facilities include well-maintained restrooms, picnic tables, and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

Yellow Bay State Park is located on the west shore of Flathead Lake, Montana, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The park features a wide, gravelly beach and Yellow Bay Creek, making it an ideal spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. It is nestled in the heart of Montana's famous sweet cherry orchards, with cherry blossoms painting the hillsides in spring and cherries available at nearby stands in summer. The park is open year-round, with tent camping available from May to September. It provides a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor adventures like hiking and bird watching.
The park's small size, at 15 acres, contributes to its intimate and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can enjoy activities such as water skiing and scuba diving, making it a versatile destination for both relaxation and adventure. The nearby towns of Bigfork and Polson offer additional amenities and attractions, including golf courses and museums.
Overall, Yellow Bay State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Montana's Flathead Lake region.

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.

Canine Beach is a unique, dog-friendly beach located on the west side of the Bozeman Ponds in Bozeman, Montana. This fenced and enclosed area offers a designated swimming beach specifically for dogs, making it a haven for pet owners and their furry friends. Its proximity to the Gallatin Valley Mall and the city center ensures easy access, while the natural setting around the pond creates a relaxing environment that blends urban convenience with outdoor charm.
Visitors appreciate the welcoming vibe of Canine Beach, which is part of the larger Bozeman Pond Park complex, known for its walking trails and off-leash dog areas. The beach’s well-maintained fenced enclosure allows dogs to play freely and safely in the water, making it a popular spot year-round. The area combines recreational opportunities for both pets and their owners, emphasizing community and outdoor enjoyment in a scenic Montana setting.
Overall, Canine Beach offers a lively yet peaceful atmosphere where pet lovers can enjoy the water, socialize, and experience the natural beauty of Bozeman. It serves as a social hub in the city for dog owners, enhancing the local outdoor lifestyle and fostering connections among visitors of all ages.

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.

Whitefish City Beach is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Whitefish Lake in Montana. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach features soft sand, a designated swimming area, and a dock for launching small watercraft. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene lake, which stretches over seven miles. The area is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports, with equipment rentals available nearby. The beach also hosts various events and activities during the summer, adding to its lively atmosphere.

The beach's proximity to downtown Whitefish allows visitors to easily explore the charming town's shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Whether you're looking to relax in a scenic setting or engage in outdoor adventures, Whitefish City Beach provides a memorable experience. Its shallow entry and cold water make it ideal for families and those seeking a refreshing swim during warmer months.

The surrounding landscape of pines and rolling mountains creates a breathtaking backdrop for photographs and outdoor activities. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a photographer's paradise. Overall, Whitefish City Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Montana's natural beauty and vibrant community spirit.

White Earth Recreation Area, located near Townsend, Montana, is not a traditional beach but rather a scenic campground situated along Canyon Ferry Lake. This area offers a serene and natural setting, perfect for those seeking outdoor activities like camping, boating, and fishing. The campground provides basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. The surrounding landscape features rugged mountains and expansive prairies, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.

White Earth Campground is part of the Canyon Ferry Lake State Park, which is renowned for its excellent boating and fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas and explore the many hiking trails around the lake. The area is also rich in wildlife, including deer, antelope, and various bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

The campground's proximity to Helena, Montana's capital, and its location between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks make it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region.

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.