Hebgen Lake

Hebgen Lake is a large reservoir surrounded by mountains in southwestern Montana, with forested shores and rocky hillsides rising above the waterline. The water fills a broad basin set within a landscape of coniferous forests and rolling terrain.

This reservoir was created in the early 1900s when a dam was built to hold back water for various uses. A powerful earthquake in 1959 reshaped the area nearby and made this location notable in the region's story.

The lake draws outdoor lovers who come to fish, camp, and spend time on the water throughout the year. It has become a familiar destination where visitors return again and again to enjoy the natural setting.

The area has campgrounds and facilities for overnight stays throughout the region around the water. Visitors should prepare for changeable mountain weather and check which areas are open before planning their visit.

The water comes from several rivers and streams that flow down from the surrounding mountains rather than from a single source. These different waterways feed the system continuously throughout the year and create shifting water levels.