Pirogue Island State Park

Pirogue Island State Park is a natural area on an island in the Yellowstone River near Miles City. The park features a forested landscape with river channels and sand banks shaped by the river's natural flow.

The island was visited in 1806 by Captain Clark and his party during the return journey of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and used as a temporary camp. This visit marks a notable point in the early exploration of the Yellowstone region.

The park preserves a section of the Yellowstone River ecosystem, supporting over 140 plant species and numerous native wildlife populations.

Visitors can explore marked trails within the park and enjoy fishing or wildlife watching. The park operates during daylight hours, though access to the island changes with seasonal water levels in the river.

During low water periods, visitors wade through shallow river channels to reach the island, creating a different experience with each visit. This seasonal variation shapes how people interact with the park.

Location: Montana

Inception: 1982

Website: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/pirogue-island

GPS coordinates: 46.44167,-105.82250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25