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BLM Camping

Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)

BLM sites are areas of public lands that are unincorporated and have been set aside for visitors to explore and enjoy. Day use sites often offer excellent hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, or wildlife viewing opportunities. Some sites also allow for Bureau of Land Management free camping. Recreational activities do vary from site to site, so it's often best to search for "BLM camping near me" to find which sites offer which amenities.

The Matthews Recreation Area is located along the Yellowstone River, not far from the town of Miles City. The area is peaceful and quiet. The Yellowstone River offers beautiful views, and the grassy areas within the recreation area are perfect for a picnic, a game of frisbee, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the space.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Strawberry Hill Loop

This looping trail offers stunning scenery and is a great option for photography and wildlife viewing.

Length: 3.5 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Calypso Trail

This long trail is a good option for hiking, OHV riding, horseback riding, or mountain biking. The trail is dog-friendly as long as the dog remains on a leash.

Length: 14.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Lake Loop

This trail in Miles City curves around Spotted Eagle Lake and offers gorgeous views.

Length: 0.9 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The Yellowstone River, which runs alongside the Matthews Recreation Site, is the perfect place to fish. The river is well-known for having many large trout, particularly during the summer months. Brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout can all be caught, and some anglers might catch a whitefish. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities on the river.

Wildlife Viewing

Because it's quiet, open, and located on the river, the Matthews Recreation Site is a great place for wildlife viewing. Species native to the area include bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, white-tailed deer, coyotes, wolves, wolverines, both grizzly and black bears, mountain lions, and lynx. The area is also known for its excellent bird watching opportunities, and many migratory birds visit the area throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Picnicking

The Matthews Recreation Area is ideal for picnicking. The area has several picnic tables and a covered picnic area. There are also several fire pits and standing grills. The restrooms are clean, and there's also plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket if you prefer that. Group events are allowed with a permit.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Visitors to the Matthews Recreation Area can camp with their RV right at the site, but there are also several other local RV camping options. The Miles City KOA Journey offers large sites, hookups, and a pool. Big Sky Camp & RV Park offers 25 sites with either 30- or 50-amp electrical hookups. There is also a laundry area, restrooms, and private showers.

Free Camping

Free camping is available right at the Matthews Recreation Area. There is no fee, but be aware that the area is first-come, first-served, so space may be limited. The Strawberry Hill Recreation Area is also a good option for dispersed camping. The area offers stunning views and a secluded, peaceful camping experience.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA) BLM trip

The Matthews Recreation Area is the perfect introduction to Montana's wild beauty. Visitors often prefer to explore the area during the spring, summer, and fall months when temperatures are warmer. From November to March, temperatures can be very cold, dropping well below freezing. Even during the summer, temperatures can drop quickly at night. If you do plan to visit or camp in the area during the colder months, be sure to dress in layers and pack warmly. As the area has few amenities, you'll also want to bring plenty of drinking water with you.

In general, Bureau of Land Management camping areas allow for up to two tents or RVs per site. Calling ahead is also a good time to check for seasonal closures or restrictions and, as most sites don't take reservations, to ensure that there's plenty of space at your chosen campground. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Like many Bureau of Land Management campgrounds or sites, Matthews Recreation Area offers limited amenities, so it's important to clean up your area whether you're enjoying the site for day use or for camping. There are some trash bins, so it's best to either dispose of trash properly or take it with you when you leave. The area is prone to fire, so only make a fire in a designated pit. Check the fire danger rating before starting a fire, and never use fireworks in the area. Try to disturb the local plants and animals as little as possible.