Makoshika State Park, the largest state park in Montana, is situated southeast of Glendive in Dawson County. The park is at an altitude of 736 m and spans an area of 47 km². This vast expanse offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Montana.
Makoshika State Park is a significant site for dinosaur enthusiasts. The park houses hundreds of dinosaur bones and complete skeletons from the Hell-Creek-Formation. These fascinating exhibits are displayed in the Visitor Center, the Makoshiko Dinosaur Museum in Glendive, and other museums along the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
Makoshika State Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors. The park features a Visitor Center, two campgrounds for those wishing to stay overnight, a wheelchair-accessible amphitheater for outdoor events, and a disc golf course for recreational activities. These facilities enhance the visitor experience and provide opportunities for entertainment and relaxation.
Nature & Natural History History & Anthropology Animals Geology Zoo
1301 Snyder St, Glendive
No exhibitions in Makoshika State Park have been found.
Makoshika State Park has 1 rating.
Makoshika State Park, located in Glendive, Montana, offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and prehistoric history. The park's badlands landscape features striking rock formations and scenic vistas that provide excellent opportunities for hiking, photography, and geological exploration. Visitors often appreciate the well-maintained trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing people of various fitness levels to enjoy the park.
The park's interpretive center serves as a small museum, showcasing dinosaur fossils and exhibits on the area's rich paleontological history. Many reviewers find this aspect particularly interesting, as it adds an educational dimension to their visit. The center provides context to the visible rock layers and the prehistoric life that once inhabited the region.
Camping facilities are available and generally receive positive feedback for their cleanliness and scenic locations. However, some visitors mention that the campgrounds can be basic, and it's advisable to come prepared, especially during peak summer months when temperatures can be high.
Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with opportunities to spot various bird species, deer, and other local fauna. The park's vast, unspoiled nature offers a sense of solitude and connection with the landscape that many visitors find rewarding.
On the downside, some reviewers note that the park can be quite hot and dry in summer, with limited shade on many trails. Additionally, the remote location means services are limited, so it's important for visitors to bring adequate water and supplies.
Overall, Makoshika State Park is well-regarded for its unique landscape, paleontological significance, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. While it may not offer the amenities of larger, more developed parks, its natural beauty and scientific interest make it a worthwhile destination for those interested in geology, paleontology, or simply enjoying a rugged, picturesque badlands environment.
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