Makoshika State Park

Makoshika State Park near Glendive, Montana offers a unique high-desert camping experience in one of the most geologically fascinating corners of the state. This seasonal destination operates from May through October, providing RV travelers with access to the park's distinctive badlands landscape and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features twenty RV sites equipped with essential amenities including dump stations for convenient hookup management, fire rings for evening campfires under vast Montana skies, and picnic tables perfect for outdoor meals and gathering with fellow travelers.

The name Makoshika comes from the Native American Lakota word meaning "bad earth," and visitors quickly understand why as they explore the otherworldly terrain of colorful badlands, towering buttes, and dramatic rock formations that tell the geological story of millions of years. The area's fossil-rich landscape draws geology enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to witness Earth's ancient past carved into the very ground beneath their feet. The surrounding badlands provide excellent opportunities for hiking and photography, with trails that reveal layers of sedimentary rock in shades of rust, gold, and cream.

For those interested in water-based recreation, the park includes a boat ramp providing access to the Missouri River, one of the West's most historically significant waterways. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities to catch northern pike and other species in the surrounding waters. The park's location in the Glendive area means visitors have access to small-town Montana hospitality and services while maintaining the peaceful isolation of nature.

This is an ideal destination for RV travelers seeking something different from typical campgrounds, especially those interested in geology, natural history, outdoor photography, or simply experiencing Montana's raw, untamed landscape. The seasonal operation from May through October ensures pleasant weather for exploring, and the moderate number of sites means the park never feels overcrowded, allowing for a more intimate connection with the badlands environment.