Or link up with a local fishing guide for an excursion on the lake in search of walleye, lake trout, Chinook salmon, or northern pike, depending on the season.
Launch a canoe, kayak, or SUP to explore the many secluded coves nearby. The recreation area campground and boat launch are located on the scenic south shore of Fort Peck Lake, an immense reservoir of the Missouri River, and are managed by the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. And just like at Medicine Rocks, jaw-dropping views of the Milky Way’s galactic center are just one part of the experience at Hell Creek. That’s because it’s a long way from pretty much everywhere-Jordan, the closest town, 25 miles to the south, has a population of less than 500.
If you look at a dark-sky map of Montana, the shading around Hell Creek Recreation Area indicates excellent conditions for stargazing. Resupply before heading north toward Hell Creek Recreation Area. In town, swing by the Range Rider’s Museum for a trip into Miles City’s western heritage. En route to Miles City, 80 miles west, keep your eyes peeled for pronghorn antelope as you traverse rolling agricultural land, wooded hill country, and sculpted badlands. Stretch your legs on the paved path at the south end of Baker Lake before popping into Compass Coffee for an espresso drink and a pastry.
Your first stop is Baker, just 30 minutes north of Medicine Rocks. The drive to Hell Creek Recreation Area, your next stop, takes you through some of Southeast Montana’s most scenic country and coolest small towns. (See Badlands and Battlefields trip, for more.)Įat & Stay: Before heading out for a night of stargazing, grab a bite at one of three Southeast Montana Burger Trail stops in Baker: Heiser’s Bar & Casino, Corner Bar, and Big Game Casino Tavern & Steakhouse. The allure of Medicine Rocks State Park isn’t limited to the hours between sunset and sunrise-the park’s iconic rock formations are a marvel to behold during daylight hours, too, so allow enough time during your visit for a hike, ride, or run. Organized by the Carter County Museum, in nearby Ekalaka, these gatherings are great opportunities to learn about astronomy and the region’s natural and cultural history and to connect with the local community. Better yet, time your visit to coincide with a free dark-sky event at the park. The best way to experience the park’s superb night skies is to snag one of its 12 first-come, first-serve primitive campsites on a clear, moonless night. In 2020, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) designated this 330-acre state park in Southeast Montana a Dark Sky Sanctuary, defined as “the most remote (and often darkest) places in the world whose conservation state is most fragile.” Translation: Medicine Rocks State Park is a stargazing haven.
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