Montana is the land of all things outdoorsy. Needless to say, the state parks system is alive and well in the Treasure State. Even so, there are some parks that are a bit lesser-known, except maybe to the locals who cherish them. So if you’re looking for a beautiful trail-filled natural area without as many crowds, here are the best state parks to visit in Montana:

1. Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park (Anaconda)
Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park, 100 Anaconda Smelter Rd, Anaconda, MT 59711, USA
Mark Holloway/flickr
First up on our list of underrated state parks to visit in Montana is Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park. Located in Anaconda, this smaller state park stands as a tribute to Montana's copper miner history. It's here that you'll be able to admire one of the largest free-standing brick structures in the entire world. For more information about planning your visit, be sure to check out the official Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park website.
2. Big Arm State Park (Bigfork)
Big Arm State Park Road, Big Arm State Park Rd, Big Arm, MT 59910, USA
Doug Kueffler/flickr
Also known as Flathead Lake, Big Arm State Park is one of the most scenic parks in the entire state. Featuring the iconic lake as well as a mountainous background, it's an excellent choice for fishing, swimming, camping, and all other outdoor activities you could hope for. Looking for a place to stay while you're there? Check out this incredible yurt village at Big Arm State Park.
3. Medicine Rocks State Park (Glendive)
Medicine Rocks State Park, 1141 MT-7, Ekalaka, MT 59324, USA
J. Stephen Conn/flickr
Medicine Rocks was once the site where Native Americans would gather for hunting parties. The unusual rock formations that stand today have a unique composition because of the gradual erosion they have faced. Visitors to the park will enjoy this highly-photographed site as well as plenty of hiking and wildlife viewing. Learn more about what makes Medicine Rocks State Park such a unique Montana destination.
4. Bannack State Park (Dillon)
Bannack State Park Mine, Montana 59725, USA
Tjflex2/flickr
As you might have gathered from the above photograph, Bannack is something of a ghost town. It's an incredible place to explore the Old West, as this was actually the site of the first gold discovery in 1862. A visit to this state park will make you feel as though you've stepped back in time (in the best way). Curious to learn more? Check out our previous article about Bannack State Park.

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5. Hell Creek State Park (Jordan)
Hell Creek State Park, 2456 Hell Creek Rd, Jordan, MT 59337, USA
Brett Whaley/flickr
Known for its incredible fishing opportunities, Hell Creek State Park is equally memorable for its landscape of the Missouri Breaks. At over 300 acres, this expansive park is an incredible place for camping. As you'll notice in the above photograph, the drive alone makes for a breathtaking day trip. It's easily one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Montana.
6. Beaverhead Rock State Park (Dillon)
Beaverhead Rock State Park, 62 Beaverhead Rock Road, Twin Bridges, MT 59754, USA
J. Stephen Conn/flickr
Beaverhead Rock, the central feature of this rugged state park, was recognized by Sacagawea herself as resembling the head of a swimming beaver. Visitors can enjoy photographing the surrounding landscape, although the rock itself is inaccessible. Plus, Beaverhead Rock State Park makes for an excellent road trip destination.
7. Lake Mary Ronan State Park (Kalispell)
Lake Mary Ronan State Park Campground, 50623 Lake Mary Ronan Rd, Proctor, MT 59929, USA
Paul Young/flickr
Just seven miles from Flathead Lake, this scenic park is filled with potential for an incredible outdoor experience. Whether you're an avid fisher, camper, or hiker, this state park is worth adding to your list. And during the summer, this park is known for the wildflowers of the surrounding meadows. If the weather conditions are right, you might just be tempted to camp here for the night.
8. Milltown State Park (Missoula)
Milltown State Park Confluence Area, 7363 Juniper Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, USA
RTCA NPS/flickr
Milltown State Park is home to the confluence of two beautiful rivers: the Clark Fork and the Blackfoot. The park features a breathtaking overlook as well as interpretive signs to inform visitors of the cultural heritage of the land. For more information about planning your visit, check out the official Milltown State Park website.

Do you agree that these are some of the best state parks to visit in Montana? Let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For more scenic spots, be sure to read about The 12 State Parks In Montana That Will Knock Your Socks Off.

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state parks to visit in Montana

Beth C. | January 11, 2022

What are the top natural wonders to visit in Montana?

True to its name, the Treasure State offers an incredible array of natural wonders to explore. Given the sheer size of the state, you could virtually never run out of things to do and places to explore in Montana. One of the best ways to appreciate this iconic state is to visit some of its most impressive natural wonders. Some of these unforgettable destinations include Lewis and Clark Caverns, Grinnell Glacier, the Missouri River, the Badlands of Makoshika State Park, Morrell Falls, Bighorn Canyon, Beartooth Mountains, the Yellowstone River, the Medicine Rocks, and Flathead Lake. Of course, this just scratches the surface of all the natural beauty that Montana has to offer. To learn more, check out our previous article: The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Montana That Everyone Should Visit.

What are some unforgettable day trip destinations in Montana?

There are few better ways to experience Montana than by hopping in your car and taking a good ol' fashioned road trip. Fortunately, there are tons of incredible day trip destinations in Montana. One of our favorites is West Yellowstone. That's right -- there's actually a small portion of the famous national park that belongs to Montana. While you're there, be sure to check out the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, an impressive educational facility. Next up on the list would be the historic town of Anaconda. Just 24 miles from Butte, this charming town has a lot to offer. Other day trip destinations worth seeking out include the town of Livingston, Fort Benton, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas, and the Polebridge Mercantile. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous article: The 10 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Montana.

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