Destination
Canyon Ferry lake
Located on the Missouri River east of Helena, Canyon Ferry Lake is one of Montana’s premier recreation destinations, offering boating, fishing, camping, marinas, beaches, swimming, waterskiing, scenic shoreline views, and Lewis and Clark history.
Region
Missouri River Country, near Helena and Townsend, Montana
Best For
Boating, fishing, camping, swimming, waterskiing, picnicking, sightseeing, hunting, marina stays, shoreline recreation, and family lake getaways
Nearby Highlights
Canyon Ferry Dam, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Goose Bay Marina, Kim’s Marina, Yacht Basin Marina, Townsend, Helena, Big Belt Mountains, Elkhorn Mountains, and Lewis and Clark sites
local charm
Canyon Ferry Dam, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Goose Bay Marina, Kim’s Marina, Yacht Basin Marina, Townsend, Helena, Big Belt Mountains, Elkhorn Mountains, and Lewis and Clark sites
Tour Overview
A Missouri River Reservoir Built for Boating, Fishing, and Montana Lake Days
Canyon Ferry Lake sits on the Missouri River approximately 50 miles downstream from the confluence of the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson rivers. With roughly 35,200 acres of water surface, 76 miles of shoreline, and thousands of acres of surrounding public land, the reservoir has become one of Montana’s most popular destinations for outdoor recreation.
Conveniently located near Helena, Great Falls, and Butte, Canyon Ferry offers easy access for day trips, weekend getaways, and longer lake stays. Visitors can boat, camp, fish year-round, swim, waterski, picnic, hunt, explore recreation sites, or simply relax along the shoreline while taking in views of the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains.
The lake is also tied to Montana’s Lewis and Clark history. In July 1805, the expedition traveled through this Missouri River corridor, with journal references to nearby landmarks such as Onion Island, Crimson Bluffs, York’s Island, Fine Bold Springs, and the Little Gates of the Mountains. Today, Canyon Ferry blends modern recreation with a landscape shaped by exploration, river travel, and Montana history.
Canyon Ferry Reservoir
Spanning about 25 miles, Canyon Ferry offers expansive water, 76 miles of shoreline, and abundant space for boating, fishing, camping, and lake recreation.
Year-Round Fishing
Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, perch, ling, and walleye, making the reservoir a favorite for both casual and experienced fishermen.
Marina Services
Goose Bay Marina, Kim’s Marina, and Yacht Basin Marina provide boat launches, rental docks, camping access, small stores, and helpful lake services.
Lewis and Clark History
The Missouri River corridor around Canyon Ferry includes sites and landmarks connected to the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s July 1805 journey.
Boating, Marinas & Lake Recreation
Canyon Ferry Lake is built for time on the water. Visitors can launch boats, rent slips, explore the shoreline, waterski, swim, picnic, or spend the day moving between beaches, coves, and recreation areas
Fishing, Camping & Outdoor Access
All campsites offer boat access, and public boat launch areas can be found near both the dam on the north end and Townsend on the south end.
History, Scenery & Nearby Amenities
Today, visitors can enjoy mountain views, nearby communities, dining, cabins, beaches, houseboats, showers, grocery access, and other services that make the lake an easy and comfortable Montana getaway.
Best Times to Visit
Summer
Boating, swimming, waterskiing, camping, marina stays, fishing, beaches, picnics, houseboats, and long lake days under Montana skies.
Fall
Cooler fishing weather, quieter campgrounds, scenic shoreline drives, hunting, mountain views, peaceful boating, and relaxed lake exploration.
Winter
Ice fishing, quiet reservoir views, wildlife watching, peaceful shoreline access, and a slower Missouri River Country experience.
Spring
Early-season fishing, fresh lake views, boating preparation, birdwatching, camping openings, and renewed outdoor recreation.
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