Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Montana
12

Montana State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Montana
Custer Country Region
Tongue River Reservoir State Park
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
Keep On Leash © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
TONGUE RIVER RESERVOIR STATE PARK
TONGUE RIVER RESERVOIR STATE PARK
PO Box 8
Decker, Montana   59025

Phone: 406-232-0900
Reservations: 406-757-2298
Email: park email button icon
The impounded Tongue River provides a 12-mile long reservoir set in the scenic red shale and juniper canyons and open prairies of southeastern Montana. Large bodies of water such as this are rare in this prairie country, and 50,000 visitors flock each year to enjoy the recreational opportunities. Boating and other water sports are popular here, and the park boasts excellent bass, crappie, walleye, and northern pike fishing. Four state record fish have been pulled from its waters. The park is 640 acres in size at an elevation of 3,454 feet. The site has vault toilets, boat rental, public phone, groceries, LP gas refill, grills/fire rings, picnic tables, trash cans, and drinking water (5/30 - 9/1). A golf course and two museums are located nearby (26 miles south) in Sheridan, Wyoming. 14 day stay limit and a small fee is required. Existing ADA Level: Moderate Accessibility.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
Swimming
1. Tongue River Reservoir State Park offers a large reservoir for swimming.
2. The park's sandy beaches provide easy access to the water.
3. Swimming is permitted throughout most of the 12-mile long reservoir.
4. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk and supervise children closely.
5. Water temperatures can vary greatly depending on weather conditions and time of year; always check before entering.

6. The lake's clear waters offer good visibility for swimmers but there may be underwater hazards such as rocks or branches.

7. Swimming near boat launch areas is not recommended due to heavy motorized traffic in these zones.

8. There are restrooms available nearby which include changing facilities making it convenient for swimmers.

9. Picnic tables by the beach allow you to relax after swimming while enjoying scenic views over the water.

10. Always remember safety measures like wearing life jackets especially if venturing into deeper parts of this vast body of water.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a concrete boat ramp available, making it easy to launch watercraft into the reservoir. Motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on the waters, providing opportunities for activities like fishing or simply enjoying the scenic views from your vessel. The calmness of the lake makes it suitable even for paddleboarding and canoeing as well.
Fishing
The park offers abundant fishing opportunities, with species like walleye, smallmouth bass and northern pike populating the waters. Anglers can enjoy shore or boat fishing throughout the year. Ice-fishing is popular during winter months when conditions permit it.


Location
Tongue River Reservoir State Park is

Picnicking
Tongue River Reservoir State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for a family outing. Enjoy scenic views while dining outdoors.
Bicycling
In this Montana location, biking options are limited. Be aware that there aren't any designated bike trails available here.

While cycling is allowed on park roads and in campgrounds, it's not recommended due to traffic concerns.

It's important for cyclists to be cautious when sharing the road with vehicles as safety should always come first.

Remember also that off-road biking can damage fragile ecosystems; please stick to established routes only.

Always wear a helmet while riding your bicycle within these grounds for protection against potential accidents or falls.

Check weather conditions before setting out since sudden changes could make paths slippery and dangerous.
Birding
The park offers excellent birding opportunities with over 230 species recorded. It's a haven for waterfowl and shorebirds. Raptors, songbirds, and game birds can also be spotted here frequently.

Birdwatchers may spot rare sightings such as the Least Tern or Piping Plover during migration seasons.

There are several viewing areas within the park that provide optimal spots to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Tongue River Reservoir State Park is located 6 miles north of Decker on Secondary 314, then 1 mile east on county road.

state route ranger badge
Montana
12

Montana State Parks

X