Medicine Rocks State Park RV & Campground Guide
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In far eastern Montana, Medicine Rocks State Park spans 330 acres and is known for its stunning rock formations. These include pillars up to 80 feet tall with tunnels and holes. The area is included in the Fort Union Formation that spreads across several states and includes shale, sandstone and coal. The entire park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017. In 2020, it became an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Spring 26-66 F
Summer 52-87 F
Fall 26-74 F
Winter 17-39 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Medicine Rocks State Park
While Medicine Rocks State Park only has 12 campsites, it can accommodate both tents and RVs. The campsites have grills, fire rings and picnic tables. Both water and vault toilets are available throughout the year. Electricity hookups are not available. The campsites are well-spaced throughout the southern section of the park close to the trailheads and some of the rock formations.
What to Do at
Medicine Rocks State Park
Sightseeing is the primary activity enjoyed by visitors to Medicine Rocks State Park, and there are many opportunities to explore the park's natural features and wildlife. The trails are suitable for both hiking and biking, and they wind around some of the most fascinating rock formations. The picnic areas and campsites offer excellent views as well, and all areas of the park are suitable for photography and wildlife viewing. Numerous programs are available to celebrate the heritage and culture of Indigenous people over thousands of years. Interpretive hikes and the Dark Sky Program are other activities hosted at the park.
Geocaching
A cache is hidden in Medicine Rocks State Park for visitors to look for. Specific instructions to locate the treasure are available through the geocaching website and app.
Nature Watching
Medicine Rocks State Park is in a remote area of Montana, far from major highways and cities, making it an ideal environment for numerous species to thrive. Some of the most prevalent species are sharp-tailed grouse, woodhouse toads, skunks, foxes, antelopes and mule deer. Other native animals are bank swallows, pheasants, wild turkeys, hawks, herons, sparrows and flycatchers.
Stargazing
As an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, the park is recognized for its excellent stargazing. Because the climate in eastern Montana is generally arid throughout most of the year, clear skies are common.
Flora and Fauna
The stunning rock formations throughout Medicine Rocks State Park sit among wide expanses of prairies as well as dispersed trees. Forty-four species of plants have been located in the park.
Hiking
Three short hiking trails are in the park. These include the 0.3-mile Sunset Loop Trail, the 0.3-mile North Rock Trail and the 0.8-mile Dalton Trail. These are flat trails that are rated as easy.
Biking
Biking is permitted on all the trails at Medicine Rocks State Park. In addition, bikers can explore the park on the paved roads that link the trailheads and camping areas.
How to Get to
Medicine Rocks State Park
If you are traveling to Medicine Rocks State Park from Billings to the west or Bismarck to the east, take Interstate 94 to the small town of Wibaux. From Wibaux, travel south on Route 7. Pass the road's intersection with Highway 12 in Baker. The park's entrance is located on the right side of the road between Willard and Ekalaka.
Entering Medicine Rocks State Park
The park's office is located just off the entrance near Route 7. The park is open for day use and camping year-round. The day-use hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Parking is available near the office. Additional parking can be found near the North Rock, Sunset Loop, and Dalton Trails.
Medicine Rocks State Park Entry Fee (Montana residents) : $0.0
Medicine Rocks State Park Entry Fee (non-residents per vehicle) : $8.0
Medicine Rocks State Park Entry Fee (walkers/bikers) : $4.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicine Rocks State Park
Medicine Rocks State Park is open throughout the year, and the rock formations may be stunning after a recent snowfall. However, hiking, biking, camping and wildlife viewing are generally more enjoyable in the mild temperatures of the late spring and early fall months.
The ecosystem in Medicine Rocks State Park supports many species of birds, including sharp-tailed grouse, flycatchers, sparrows, bank swallows, wild turkeys, hawks and pheasants. Other species that you could spot and photograph while exploring the grounds are mule deer, foxes, skunks, woodhouse toads and antelope.
None of the camping spots at Medicine Rocks State Park are designed for RV use only.
The 12 camping spots at Medicine Rocks State Park are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. The nightly rate ranges from $4 to $34 depending on amenity availability and season.
Pets are permitted at Medicine Rocks State Park. They should be restrained on a leash no longer than 8 feet.