Tongue River State Park

4.16

25 reviews

290 Campers Point, PO Box 8, Decker, Montana, 59025, United States

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,461 ft

Price

$8 - $43/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

156 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation i...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Montana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,461 ft

Price

$8 - $43/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

156 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation i...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Montana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Tongue River State Park

$8.00 - $43.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $8 to enter the park to $43 for fishing permits. Additional costs include $35 for a zebra mussel sticker. Specific campsite fees...

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.16

Satisfactory

Based on 25 reviews

239 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanstafffriendly

"Overall, user reviews highlight Tongue River State Park as a scenic and versatile destination with good camping, boating, and fishing opportunities. However, some amenities like showers are lacking, and fishing experiences vary."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

290 Campers Point, PO Box 8, Decker, Montana, 59025, United States

Tongue River State Park

290 Campers Point, PO Box 8, Decker, Montana, 59025, United States

Driving directionsLocated just north of the Montana-Wyoming state line, Tongue River Reservoir State Park is located 6 miles north of Decker on Secondary 314, then 1 mile east on county road.

Secondary 314 is accessible from Decker, and the route includes a paved county road for the last stretch. The location is easily reachable, but details on seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not provided.

Nearby places

Decker (6 miles), Sheridan, Wyoming, and other cities are not specified with exact distances and travel times.

Nearby supplies

The marina is noted for being well-stocked, selling essentials, bait, tackle, drinks, firewood, ice, and propane. No exact external supply store locations are listed.

Best Time to Camp at Tongue River State Park

Experience Montana's dramatic seasonal shifts at Tongue River, where crisp, dry winters give way to spectacular camping weather. While winter brings freezing temperatures and light dustings of snow, the magic truly unfolds as spring arrives. Plan your perfect getaway during Week 18 in early May, when temperatures climb to a comfortable 64°F during the day and cool to 40°F at night under predominantly clear skies. Summer reaches its peak during Weeks 26 and 28, with glorious 83-88°F days perfect for water activities, while evenings cool to a pleasant 62°F—ideal for campfire gatherings. With 90% clear skies during peak season, you'll understand why seasoned campers mark their calendars for these golden weeks.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 22% in MT

Swimming, boating and fishing are at their best in summer; water access is central.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Crisp fall weather and scenery remain attractive though fewer water activities than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Activity ramps up in spring; fishing improves around Memorial Day though early spring is variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Freezing temps and light snow make winter visits possible but less common and limited activities.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Seasonal operation information is not explicitly stated.

About Tongue River State Park

Nestled in southeastern Montana's rugged landscape, Tongue River State Park beckons adventurers with its stunning 12-mile reservoir that winds through dramatic red rock country. Six distinct campgrounds—from the aptly named Rattlesnake to the waterfront havens of Sand Point and Campers Point—offer 156 total campsites, including 81 reservable spots for those who plan ahead. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat into crystal-clear waters, or settling in for a night under Montana's vast sky, this park delivers the authentic Western outdoor experience that draws visitors back season after season.

Tongue River State Park accommodates a variety of camping styles. It offers primitive camping, RV sites, and group camping options, with some areas providing electricity hookups and others being more basic.

Weather and SeasonsExperience Montana's dramatic seasonal shifts at Tongue River, where crisp, dry winters give way to spectacular camping weather. While winter brings freezing temperatures and light dustings of snow, the magic truly unfolds as spring arrives. Plan your perfect getaway during Week 18 in early May, when temperatures climb to a comfortable 64°F during the day and cool to 40°F at night under predominantly clear skies. Summer reaches its peak during Weeks 26 and 28, with glorious 83-88°F days perfect for water activities, while evenings cool to a pleasant 62°F—ideal for campfire gatherings. With 90% clear skies during peak season, you'll understand why seasoned campers mark their calendars for these golden weeks.

ElevationElevation details are not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by Tongue River's striking landscape, where ancient red shale cliffs rise dramatically from the water's edge, creating a photographer's paradise at every turn. Wind-carved juniper canyons provide intimate exploration opportunities, while expansive prairies stretch toward the horizon, offering that quintessential Big Sky Country experience. The centerpiece reservoir reflects the changing moods of Montana's sky, from brilliant sunrise oranges to deep sunset purples. As seasoned visitors note, this is high desert country—the sparse tree coverage means unobstructed views and star-filled nights, though shade seekers should come prepared with canopies for those warm summer days.

Geological RegionTongue River State Park showcases southeastern Montana's remarkable geological tapestry, where millions of years of natural forces have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else. The park's signature red shale formations tell an ancient story written in stone, while juniper-dotted canyons carve intimate corridors through the terrain. This unique ecosystem bridges the gap between Montana's mountainous regions and its eastern prairies, all centered around the serpentine 12-mile reservoir that has become both a recreational paradise and a vital water source for the surrounding high desert environment.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay limit is 8 people per site, increasing to 16 for double sites.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to 8 people or 16 for double-count sites.

Groups

Group camping sites can accommodate up to 16 people and two camping units, as specified in the park's guidelines.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSix campgrounds with a mix of reservable and non-reservable sites, spread across red shale and prairie landscapes. Sites at Rattlesnake are noted for quiet and privacy.

Reservation PlatformsReservation availability is implied but specific platforms like websites are not detailed.

Walk-in AvailabilityReviewers mention a mix of reservation and first-come-first-serve options, but exact numbers are unclear.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable, and cancellation terms are not detailed.

AccessibilityAll sites on Campers Point are ADA compatible, ensuring accessibility for campers with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some spacious enough to accommodate two toy haulers with room for additional setups.

PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by campground. Rattlesnake Campground is described as quieter due to fewer sites. Tracy Webb noted, 'Plenty of privacy.

Total Campsites156 campsites

Recommended SitesUser review recommends packing an awning for shade given sparse tree coverage.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Tongue River State Park offers a diverse array of recreational activities. Visitors can engage in boating, bird watching, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and picnicking. The park is also popular for wildlife viewing and is surrounded by a scenic reservoir ideal for water-based activities. User reviews highlight fishing, boating, and swimming as top activities, although fishing reviews are mixed.

FishingFishing is available and popular among visitors, although some reviews mention inconsistent results. For example, Dan Bossell said they 'caught a few fish,' while Lacie Labrie stated, 'If you are looking for a place to fish, move along. WORST FISHING EVER.'

SwimmingSwimming is a highlight for many visitors. Crystal Hiwalker remarked: 'Great for swimming, fishing, camping, or family outings.'

BoatingBoating is a central activity with facilities including a boat launch ramp and fuel options. Visitors described it as a 'wonderful place' for boating.

Wildlife viewingBird watching and general wildlife viewing opportunities are available, although specific species were not mentioned.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCoal mining activity in the surrounding area results in a coal smell. Sparse tree coverage limits shade during hot weather.

Fire Policy"Campfires are allowed in designated areas only."

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM

Emergency ServicesIn case of emergencies, visitors are advised to dial 911. Additional assistance may be provided by park staff, but specific details on the nearest hospitals or police stations are not available.

Trash & RecyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not provided.

Water FeaturesProximity to a 12-mile reservoir allows for fishing, boating, and swimming. Some campsites are described as "one minute from water."

Camp HostHost assistance was positively reviewed, with one user applauding the park office for allowing access to tools for emergency repairs.

Weather at Tongue River State Park

Reviews

4.2

25 reviews

Satisfactory

Tongue River State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews highlight Tongue River State Park as a scenic and versatile destination with good camping, boating, and fishing opportunities. However, some amenities like showers are lacking, and fishing experiences vary.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Campgrounds offer a variety of activities and ample space. The marina is highly praised for its well-stocked store and friendly staff. Sites are described as private, clean, and quiet. Paul Dodson...

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Fishing experiences are inconsistent, and there is a lack of trees for shade, prompting some to recommend packing an awning. One user described the fees as expensive, and there are no shower...

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing an awning due to minimal tree cover. Tracy Webb highlighted that the cost per car was $18 per night, which they found reasonable.

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fishing experiences improve around Memorial Day, but the park can be quieter mid-week. Visits during colder months are possible but less common.

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Always a fun place for fishing, boating and camping.' - Steve Hudak - 'The marina is always stocked with necessities.' - Steve Hudak - 'You got to try their Indian tacos on Saturdays and burgers...

Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Rattlesnake Campground is quieter and more basic, while Campers Point offers ADA-compatible sites. Pee Wee South and Campers Point are the only reservable campgrounds.

Based on 25 reviews