Medicine Rocks State Park offers campers an opportunity to explore unique rock formations in a remote corner of eastern Montana. Located near the small town of Ekalaka, this 330-acre state park sits at approximately 3,400 feet elevation and features sandstone pillars eroded into unusual shapes over millions of years. Campsites are available for both tent and RV camping, with limited electric hookups at select sites.
What to do
**Rock exploration: Medicine Rocks State Park Campground features sandstone formations with hundreds of holes, caves, and tunnels for climbing and exploring. "The campground itself has a few areas which can flood quite easily (I got a bit wet when an unexpected storm rolled in). Otherwise, the campsites are nestled in between a mixture of large rock formations and tall trees. This makes it a fun place for kids because they can run around on the rocks and still stay in view of parents," notes Evan H.
**Stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional dark sky viewing on clear nights. "We were hoping for good stargazing, but it was too cloudy--the night sky is very dark, though, so I'm sure it would be breathtaking on a clear night," reports Daphne D. who stayed at Medicine Rocks.
**Historical carvings: Visitors can view ancient rock carvings throughout the park. "The coolest thing is seeing carvings in the rock that are said to date back several hundred years. That alone was worth the stop," writes James D. about his visit to Medicine Rocks State Park.
What campers like
**Seclusion: The remote location provides peace and quiet rarely found at busier campgrounds. "This campground is secluded! A couple of short trails. Nice camp spots. A couple of outhouses. No running water, BUT there is fresh spring water at the entrance of the park," shares Talia D. after camping at Medicine Rocks State Park Campground.
**Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing abundant wildlife, especially deer. "You have access to water also, but be prepared, this is a pack in - pack out place. Don't get me wrong it is a decent place and there is a lot of wildlife," James D. mentions about Medicine Rocks.
**Night sky: The minimal light pollution creates spectacular stargazing opportunities. "If you want to get away from it all, this is the place. It is remote, secluded, and beautiful. If you are looking for peace and quiet, it's definitely available here," explains Cindy A. who gave Medicine Rocks a 5-star rating.
What you should know
**Limited facilities: RV sites near Ekalaka, Montana offer basic amenities with few modern conveniences. "Interesting park and campground. Almost like boondocking. Sites were numbered but it was sometimes hard to see where you should park. Sites were not really level. No trash pickup. Water pump at entrance," explains Leslie B. about Medicine Rocks State Park Campground.
**Pack extra water: The hand pump at Medicine Rocks can be difficult to use for filling RV tanks. "The pit toilets were clean and well maintained, and there is a camp host on duty (although he kept to himself unless we needed him)," reports Daphne D., noting the basic but functional facilities.
**Cell service: Connectivity is limited throughout the area. "If you're looking for swimming pools, golf courses, yada yada...but if you just want to camp in one of the prettiest places on earth, this is it," explains Cindy A. about the primitive camping experience at Medicine Rocks.
Tips for camping with families
**Explore freely: The rock formations create natural playgrounds for children. "The campsites are nestled in between a mixture of large rock formations and tall trees. This makes it a fun place for kids because they can run around on the rocks and still stay in view of parents," suggests Evan H. from his experience at Medicine Rocks State Park Campground.
**Prepare for weather changes: Eastern Montana can experience rapid weather shifts, especially during spring and fall. "The campground itself has a few areas which can flood quite easily (I got a bit wet when an unexpected storm rolled in)," warns Evan H. from his stay at Medicine Rocks.
**Bring entertainment: Limited organized activities mean family-provided recreation is essential. "There isn't 'much' to do...if you're looking for swimming pools, golf courses, yada yada...but if you just want to camp in one of the prettiest places on earth, this is it," notes Cindy A. about the simple pleasures of camping at Medicine Rocks.
Tips from RVers
**Leveling equipment: Bring blocks and leveling tools for uneven camping spots. "We spent a couple of nights in our 22' trailer over July 4th weekend. We were very lucky to find one site left. Lovely spot if you want peace and tranquility, that sky at night is something else!" shares Mark J. about his experience at Medicine Rocks State Park Campground.
**Alternative options: DJ's RV Park provides additional RV sites near Ekalaka, Montana with drinking water and trash service for motorhome travelers seeking simple accommodations when Medicine Rocks is full.
**Holiday planning: Book early or arrive mid-week for holiday weekend camping. "We spent a couple of nights in our 22' trailer over July 4th weekend. We were very lucky to find one site left," advises Mark J. about securing a spot at Medicine Rocks during peak periods.
