About Sundance Lodge Rec. Area
This day-use-only area is at the confluence of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone and Yellowstone rivers on the Lewis and Clark and Nez Perce National Historic Trails. Its cottonwood groves, meadows, and riparian areas are popular for hiking, viewing wildlife, horseback riding and picnicking.Sundance Lodge was a working ranch before the BLM acquired it in 1997. The Nature Conservancy, the Yellowstone Chapter of Pheasants Forever, and the BLM combined efforts to acquire the land. It is now designated a Special Recreation Management Area and its purpose is to provide a dispersed recreation experience near the communities of Laurel and Billings, ensure public access to the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone, and protect wildlife habitat.An agreement with The Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks and the Yellowstone Chapter of Pheasants Forever enables them to assist BLM with the intensive management of the property.Based on historical research, Laurel High School students recommended the name of this site. According to the research, the historical Crow name for the Clarks Fork River is Ashkisshipouoo, translated as "Where the Sun Dance Lodge was run over.” This refers to an incident in which an abandoned sun dance lodge was run over by a herd of buffalo.Activities: Wildlife watching, environmental education, photography, hiking, biking, and horseback riding on designated roads and trails. Archery hunting and limited shotgun hunting is available through a Block Management Program with The Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks.Day use only is allowed. Overnight camping is only allowed for special events approved by the BLM. Motorized vehicle use is not allowed.
How to Get There
The area is located near the confluence of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone and the Yellowstone River. There are about 380 acres of river bottom intermingled with the irrigated hay lands. From Laurel, Montana,, take Highway 212 (the road to Red Lodge) over the Yellowstone River. About ј mile past the bridge, turn east (left) onto Thiel Road. Drive down Thiel Road 1.3 miles to the parking area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Sundance Lodge Rec. Area
Heading to Sundance Lodge Rec. Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Sundance Lodge Rec. Area?
No central reservation system listed for Sundance Lodge Rec. Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/261721) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sundance Lodge Rec. Area?
The area is located near the confluence of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone and the Yellowstone River. There are about 380 acres of river bottom intermingled with the irrigated hay lands. From Laurel, Montana,, take Highway 212 (the road to Red Lodge) over the Yellowstone River. About ј mile past the bridge, turn east (left) onto Thiel Road. Drive down Thiel Road 1.3 miles to the parking area.
How do I contact Sundance Lodge Rec. Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-896-5013 or email: BLM_MT_Billings_FO@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
