Makoshika State Park - United States
Discover the RVezy RV rental marketplace
About Makoshika State Park
RV quick facts for Makoshika State Park
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Max RV length | 45 feet at designated camping sites; RVs over 20 feet restricted to first 2 miles of park roads |
| Full hookups | No hookups available |
| Dump station | No dump station; water fill station at visitor center |
| Cell service | Poor to unreliable; partial coverage at higher elevations |
| Road restrictions | Gravel and dirt roads; RVs over 20 feet restricted to first 2 miles; wet conditions may cause closures |
| Reservation window | Up to 9 months in advance; mid-May through mid-September dates; first-come, first-served outside window |
Featured RV rentals for Makoshika State Park
Best time to visit Makoshika State Park
The best time to visit Makoshika State Park is May through September, when all facilities are fully operational, temperatures are warm, and roads are accessible. During these months, visitor amenities including water, the visitor center, and interpretive programs are available. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for hiking and fossil hunting, while summer brings long daylight hours perfect for exploring trails and scenic drives. Winter months are challenging for RV visitors due to snow and icy road conditions that can cause temporary closures.
Coldest month; snow possible; short daylight hours; park open, minimal services
Peak snow season; roads may be impassable; minimal services
Winter conditions persist; melting snow; visitor center open weekends only
Spring warming; water availability increases; campgrounds opening
Full facility season begins; all campgrounds and services open; wildflowers bloom
Summer peak; long daylight hours; afternoon thunderstorms possible
Hottest month; daytime temperatures exceed 100F; early morning hiking recommended
Very hot; take ample water; trails become dusty; evening programs at visitor center
Fall cooling begins; comfortable hiking temperatures; crowds diminish
Cooler days; early morning frost possible; visitor center hours reduce
Late fall weather; first snow possible; visitor center open weekends only
Winter season; limited services; roads may be impassable after snow
Things to do at Makoshika State Park
- Hell Creek Formation and Fossil Viewing
Explore the Hell Creek Formation, one of North America's richest dinosaur fossil sites, where over a dozen species have been discovered. The visitor center displays a complete Triceratops skull and fossils of Tyrannosaurus rex and other prehistoric creatures. Interpretive trails allow visitors to see eroding badlands that continuously expose new fossil remains.
- Rim Rock Nature Trail ModerateRV parking available
This popular moderate trail provides panoramic views of the park's distinctive badlands formations and geological layers. The trail offers interpretive signage explaining the landscape's geological history and provides excellent photography opportunities.
- Cap Rock Trail EasyRV parking available
A short 0.5-mile loop trail with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families and those seeking a quick introduction to the badlands. This easy walk takes approximately 20 minutes to 1 hour and can be completed from lower parking areas accessible to larger RVs.
- Diane Gabriel Trail (The Dinosaur Trail) Moderate
This 1.4-kilometer trail showcases fossils and badlands erosion features while offering moderate hiking through the unique landscape. Named for paleontological discoveries, the trail provides insights into the Hell Creek Formation's paleontological significance.
- Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching
The badlands ecosystem supports mule deer, mountain lions, bald eagles, golden eagles, and mountain bluebirds. Early morning hikes offer the best opportunities to spot wildlife, and the remote location makes excellent stargazing possible on clear nights.
- Disc Golf Course EasyRV parking available
Enjoy a round of disc golf right in the badlands, a unique recreational opportunity within the park. The course is open year-round and provides a fun activity between hiking excursions.
- Scenic Drive and Photography
Drive through the park's scenic routes to view badlands formations, erosion patterns, and geological features without strenuous hiking. The landscape offers exceptional photo opportunities, especially during golden hour at sunrise and sunset.
RV delivery to a campground, made simple
Skip the pickup. Skip the towing. Get an RV delivered and set up at your campsite so you can arrive, unpack, and start your trip stress-free.
Choose your perfect RV
Browse RVs that offer delivery to your site and book the one that fits your budget and adventure style.
Lock in your campsite
Reserve your campsite with the hookups and amenities you need. We’ll help you find RVs that meet site requirements.
Arrive and relax
Your host delivers and sets up the RV before you get there. Just show up and start enjoying your trip.
Find the perfect RV for these nearby campgrounds
RV Rentals Makoshika State Park
Makoshika State Park, MT, United States
How to get to Makoshika State Park
Makoshika State Park is located just 0.25 miles southeast of Glendive, Montana, making it easily accessible from the city. The nearest major airport is Billings Logan International Airport, approximately 220 miles southwest, roughly a 3-hour drive. RV visitors should note that the park features a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt roads with steep inclines, particularly in upper areas. Vehicles longer than 20 feet are restricted to the first 2 miles of park roads and cannot access switchback sections, though most lower camping sites accommodate RVs up to 45 feet.
RVezy vs. Traditional RV rental
RVezy rentals
- Book directly from local RV owners
- Choose the exact RV you want
- Delivery to your campsite, home, or destination
- More variety: trailers, motorhomes, and campers
Traditional RV rental
- Limited fleet from a rental company
- Exact RV not guaranteed
- Pickup only at retail locations
- Fewer RV types and less availability