Makoshika State Park in eastern Montana is poised to expand its camping options as Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks pursues a plan for a new campground. The proposed development is intended to address escalating demand for recreational vehicle accommodations and to attract more visitors to the badlands near Glendive. Park officials aim to create a destination that appeals to both RV travelers and those seeking more rustic experiences.
Covering more than 11,500 acres of rugged terrain, Makoshika is known for towering rock formations and notable dinosaur fossil discoveries. The site drew an average of about 112,000 visitors annually from 2019 to 2023, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reported paying over $6,500 in accommodations taxes for Makoshika in fiscal year 2024. Officials say the new campground could raise that figure by about $5,100. “The project design has not been finalized as we are currently accepting public comments which may alter the project,” park manager Brian Burky said. “That being said, the project concept is estimated to cost between $3.4 million and $4.4 million,” he added in recent coverage.
One timeline suggests that construction and design might begin in 2025, potentially leading to a public opening in 2026, according to the schedule. Park representatives have indicated the final plan may change following community feedback, with a goal of preserving scenic views and fossil-rich sections of the park.
Under the proposal, the park could add 16 RV sites with electric hookups and four primitive hike/bike sites. Plans also outline a dinosaur-themed playground and designated space for a park host. Officials have indicated that restroom and picnic facilities would be added, potentially accommodating more families and day-use visitors.
Before construction can begin, environmental remediation remains essential because the proposed site overlaps with a former shooting range. About 1,750 cubic yards of lead-contaminated soil will require removal and professional disposal. By focusing on careful soil handling and worker safety, officials intend to ensure public health once the campground opens.
Park officials note there is potential for significant economic impact, as more travelers might be attracted to Glendive. This development, according to park officials, could encourage visitors to extend their stay, explore local businesses, and return in greater numbers throughout the year.
Early-stage coordination with remediation experts is regarded as a core strategy for mitigating pollution. Projects that integrate safe soil removal or encapsulation measures at the onset often reduce cross-contamination and limit long-term complications.
Expanded site availability could provide new travel routes for those seeking scenic getaways in eastern Montana. Longer visits sometimes translate to increased spending at shops and restaurants, offering potential benefits for local economies in Dawson County.
Revenue updates from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks indicate that multiple communities near state parks experience a rise in retail and lodging sales whenever visitor traffic grows. This campground project could therefore help sustain year-round interest by providing a range of overnight and daytime activities.
A public commentary period is underway, granting local residents and interested parties an opportunity to weigh in on the campground’s layout, timing, and environmental measures. Officials note that the design phase might evolve based on constructive feedback, reflecting an intention to balance recreation with habitat conservation.
If all approvals proceed smoothly, authorities have indicated that final designs could move forward within the next year. Lead removal would precede any significant site work, after which the campground would receive electric infrastructure, pathways, and additional amenities.
Featuring a combination of modern RV sites and primitive hike/bike spots, the project aims to appeal to a broad demographic. Experience suggests that a well-rounded mix of family-friendly features, interpretive signage, and accessible day-use spaces encourages repeat visits and highlights the natural wonders of destinations like Makoshika.