Destination
Makoshika State Park
Explore Montana’s largest state park, where dramatic badlands, dinosaur fossils, scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife habitat, camping, archery, disc golf, and prehistoric history create an unforgettable eastern Montana adventure.
Region
Eastern Montana, near Glendive
Best For
Badland scenery, hiking, dinosaur fossils, photography, camping, wildlife watching, scenic drives, archery, disc golf, and family-friendly exploration
Nearby Highlights
Glendive, Montana Dinosaur Trail, visitor center, Triceratops skull display, nature trails, campground, amphitheater, and badland overlooks
local charm
A rugged state park shaped by colorful claystone, sandstone formations, fossil history, Lakota language roots, and wide-open eastern Montana landscapes
Tour Overview
Montana’s Largest State Park and a Badlands Fossil Wonderland
Makoshika State Park is Montana’s largest state park, protecting more than 11,000 acres of rugged badlands near Glendive. Its name, pronounced “Ma-ko’-shi-ka,” comes from a Lakota phrase meaning “bad land” or “bad spirits,” a fitting name for the park’s striking claystone, sandstone, pine-studded ridges, and otherworldly formations.
The park is especially known for its prehistoric story. Fossil remains of ancient creatures, including Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, have been found in the area, giving visitors a powerful look into Montana’s deep dinosaur history. At the visitor center, interpretive exhibits and a Triceratops skull display help bring that ancient world to life.
Beyond fossils, Makoshika offers hiking, camping, biking, picnicking, scenic drives, wildlife watching, archery, disc golf, photography, and wide-open badlands exploration. It is a destination for families, outdoor travelers, geology lovers, and anyone who wants to experience a wilder side of eastern Montana.
Montana’s Largest Park
Makoshika spans more than 11,000 acres, offering visitors room to hike, drive, camp, photograph, and explore dramatic badland terrain.
Dinosaur Fossil History
The park preserves fossil evidence of prehistoric creatures, including Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, making it a memorable stop for dinosaur enthusiasts.
Badland Formations
Colorful claystone, sandstone, pine, juniper, ridges, and eroded rock shapes create a rugged landscape unlike anywhere else in Montana.
Outdoor Recreation
Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, wildlife watching, archery, disc golf, scenic drives, picnicking, and nature trails.
Visitor Center
Start at the visitor center for interpretive displays, fossil exhibits, park information, and a closer look at the area’s prehistoric past.
Nature Trails & Scenic Drives
Explore badland formations by trail or vehicle, with dramatic overlooks, rugged textures, and changing light across the park.
Dinosaur Connections
Makoshika is part of Montana’s fossil story, with ancient remains and exhibits that connect visitors to the creatures that once lived here.
Campground & Park Amenities
The park includes camping, picnic areas, a group use shelter, outdoor amphitheater, restrooms, drinking water, grills, fire rings, and interpretive displays.
Best Times to Visit
Summer
Hiking, camping, scenic drives, photography, disc golf, archery, visitor center stops, and long daylight for exploring the badlands.
Fall
Cooler temperatures, quieter trails, golden eastern Montana light, wildlife watching, scenic drives, and excellent photography conditions.
Winter
Quiet landscapes, snow-dusted formations, peaceful overlooks, photography, solitude, and a rugged badlands atmosphere.
Spring
Mild weather, fresh scenery, hiking, wildlife activity, visitor center stops, and a strong season for exploring before summer heat.
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