Makoshika State Park offers premium glamping near Terry, Montana amid dramatic badlands terrain. Located in eastern Montana, this park spans 11,538 acres at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 2,400 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Winter camping is available but requires preparation for potential sub-zero temperatures in this semi-arid region.
What to do
Disc golf course: Makoshika State Park features a nearly complete disc golf course with installed baskets, making it a unique recreational option. "Super fun, nearly complete disc golf course with baskets" in the main campground area, according to Tania W., who also noted the "grassy [area] with great views."
Winter exploration: Makoshika remains open year-round with opportunities for off-season camping. Evan H. reports, "I was able to make my way down here in January and happened to be the only fool camping in the Montana winter when a wind storm rolled through. Regardless of the wind, this is a wonderful campground with plenty of hiking and biking extremely close."
Fossil viewing: The park's paleontological significance includes accessible fossil viewing spots along trails. "Kids would love this park. Makoshika State Park has a Triceratops on the sign, how can you not get excited about checking it out!" writes Shelly S., who enjoyed hiking through the hills where "there were informational markers and interesting spots."
What campers like
Pine on Rocks area: This secluded camping section offers greater privacy than the main campground. "We had a very private site #20 with our own clean private vault toilet and garbage can. It was down a single track rutted road but our 24' pop up truck camper made it with ease," notes Judy T, who appreciated the pine trees for shade in the hot climate.
Swimming opportunities: Near Miles City KOA, campers enjoy access to the Yellowstone River. "Quick hike down to the Yellowstone River where there is great rock picking and it's the perfect spot to cool off in the middle of a hot Montana summer," shares Olivia W., who appreciated this refreshing option during warmer months.
Campsite amenities: The facilities at Makoshika receive consistent praise. "There are fire pits, tables, pit toilets, and the availability of firewood and water at each camping area," explains Evan H. The primitive sites are particularly noteworthy, with Tania W. pointing out they're "available for less money (Main $18, Primitive $12)" and are "accessed from the main road going through the park which turns from paved to gravel."
What you should know
Limited utilities: Makoshika's main campground lacks electrical hookups, which affects comfort during extreme weather. "The campground is non-electric, so remember that if you like to run your AC when it is 100+!" advises Stacy M., who also mentioned that "the hosts were super nice and drove around to check on everyone often."
Cellular connectivity: Signal strength varies throughout the park. "Verizon service limited to none," reports Kris K., noting that water is available "at visitors center" and hosts are "helpful."
Road considerations: Certain campground areas have vehicle restrictions. Judy T. points out that trailers aren't allowed on the "winding steep but paved road" to some sites, while there is "a campground for larger RVs but they are on asphalt closer to the entrance."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Children enjoy the wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the park. "There were rabbits appearing and disappearing. There were benches in interesting places," says Shelly S., who emphasizes Makoshika is an "excellent place to bring the kids."
Playground access: Miles City KOA offers family-friendly amenities. Amber W. describes it as "very relaxing" with "a great little heated pool, playground and dog park," noting there are "swings and sitting areas all around and a river close by that my kids and dog loved walking by/in."
Glamping options: Unique accommodations provide comfortable alternatives to tent camping. "Wish we would have booked the teepee spot so we could hang out in it," mentions Stacy M., who thankfully "did not see any rattlesnakes, though I heard there are giant ones in the park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Different camping loops at Makoshika offer varied experiences. "There is a campground for larger RVs but they are on asphalt closer to the entrance. They were crowded and it looked hot there," observes Judy T, contrasting with the more secluded Pine on Rocks area.
Accessibility information: Big Sky Campground & RV Park offers full hookups with additional amenities. "They did have full hook ups with a pool, showers and a laundromat for two dollars, each and two dollars each load," reports Lisa M., who paid "$50 per night" and found the "place was clean and well kept" despite being a "typical RV park" where "spaces were pretty much right next to each other."
Payment policies: Be prepared for varied payment options at different campgrounds. Lisa M. notes that Big Sky Campground "only accept cash or checks, no credit cards," while Marielle W. mentions that Makoshika's "out of state fee is $28/night."
