Your visit to a Montana State Park should be enjoyable and safe. Our parks are natural environments that require alertness, planning and respect for the environment.

Our public safety program promotes responsible stewardship of state park lands and resources in a manner that minimizes social and resource impacts and provides safe and family friendly park experiences.

Read more about our public safety program and tips to help keep you and your family safe in Montana's great outdoors.

Emergencies

Be prepared for emergencies. Bring a cell phone for use during emergencies and learn where emergency phones and help are located in the park.

Be weather wise

Get a weather report for the area, wear the proper clothes and bring the proper equipment. Bring additional clothing for unexpected weather.

Avoid overexertion. Heat and wind may be tiring and may cause dehydration.

Around wildlife

Do not feed or approach wildlife. Do not leave food or garbage items lying around your camp, this could attract unwanted wildlife visitors.

Swimming and water activities

Watch out for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Montana waters. Report HABs.

Learn to swim; it's never too late!

Wear a properly fitted personal flotation device when in or near the water.

Distances across rivers or coves are always farther than they appear!

Dangerous currents and sharp drop-offs may not be visible.

Swim with a buddy; never swim alone.

Never dive head-first into a lake or river.

Watch your children around water. Children should remain under close supervision at all times.

Children should wear personal flotation devices when playing in or near water. Find more water safety tips and checklists on the Safe Kids website.

Boating

Be sure your boat is properly registered and equipped with safety devices.

Unfamiliar waters may be hazardous; exercise caution.

When on or near the water, wear a properly fitted personal floatation device.

Be alert for submerged obstacles and floating debris on lakes and sweepers, strainers and log jams on rivers.

Hiking

Stay on designated trails. Steep drop-offs, poisonous plants, rattlesnakes and unstable footing may exist beyond the trail.

Get a park map before hiking park trails.

Dress properly and carry the proper equipment.

Do not hike alone. hike with a partner or group.

Stay hydrated and carry adequate water.