FISH CREEK STATE PARK
FISH CREEK STATE PARKNational Forest Development Road 7764
Alberton, Montana 59820
(lat:46.9902 lon:-114.7159)
From the lookout atop Williams Peak to the crystal-clear emerald pools of Fish Creek, this state park is full of wildlife, beautiful scenery and places to explore.
Fish Creek State Park covers more than 5,600 acres, making it the largest state park in western Montana. The park is part of a larger state-owned public land complex, covering more than 45,000 acres, that is managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks FWP. The campgrounds at Big Pine and Forks Fishing Access Sites, and day use sites on the Alberton Gorge, as well as the Fish Creek Wildlife Management Area are managed by FWP divisions. A much larger tract of public land exists in the neighboring national forest.
The park offers a variety of recreation opportunities within a secluded and quiet environment. Open year round, activities include fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, berry picking, horseback riding, OHV, and snowmobiling on open roads. The park offers access to Fish Creek in multiple locations and is home to the confluence of the creek and the Clark Fork River in the Alberton Gorge, known for its first-rate whitewater rafting. Fish Creek State Park has a network of old logging roads, including a 70-mile series of open roads, that allow motorized use, and closed roads, that are available for hiking and nonmotorized use.
Fish Creek State Park, and neighboring public lands, offers a memorable rustic, natural experience. Fish Creek State is located conveniently off Interstate 90, about 41 miles west of Missoula, making it easily accessible to residents and travelers.
Shaped by decades of logging, the forest landscape of the park offers dramatic views of the industrial past and its recovering present. Although closed to the public, an historic fire tower, sits atop Williams Peak, offering an expansive view of the park and the surrounding Bitterroot mountain range and the Great Burn proposed wilderness. The 1910 Great Burn is the largest fire in regional history and burned three million acres in northwestern Montana, Idaho, Washington, in less than three days.
Fish Creek is a stronghold for Montanas native trout, including bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout, and wild populations of rainbows and browns. Fish Creek State Park also supports a variety of habitats for wildlife including an estimated 47 mammal, 113 bird, three amphibian, and four reptile species. Some notable mammal species include moose, elk, black bear, mountain lions, and wolves.
1. Fish Creek State Park offers a variety of swimming options in its clear, cool waters.
2. The park's main attraction is the 26-mile long Fish Creek river ideal for refreshing dips and swims.
3. There are numerous natural pools along the creek that provide safe spots to swim or wade into water.
4. For those who prefer calmer waters, there are several small lakes within the park perfect for leisurely swimming sessions.
5. Swimming at dawn or dusk provides opportunities to witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets over Montana's scenic landscape while cooling off in water bodies.
6. The state park does not have lifeguards on duty; swimmers should exercise caution when entering deeper parts of rivers/lakes.
7. Swimming during summer months can be particularly enjoyable due to warmer temperatures both outside and inside water bodies.
8. Park visitors often combine their swim with other activities such as fishing, hiking or picnicking by shorelines making it an all-round outdoor experience.
9. Remember: always respect nature - leave no trace behind after your visit ensuring clean spaces remain intact for future generations' enjoyment too!
The park offers a variety of boating options. The Fish Creek Pond provides an excellent spot for non-motorized watercraft like canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. For those interested in fishing or wildlife viewing, the creek is accessible by small boats during high-water periods typically from spring runoff through early July. Motorized boating with jet skis or speedboats isn't allowed to maintain peace and tranquility within the area.
Enjoy fishing in pristine waters, home to a variety of species including rainbow trout and brook trout. The park's 5,603 acres provide ample opportunities for fly-fishing or angling from the shore. Ice fishing is also an option during winter months.