Black Sandy State Park
A popular Montana state park on Hauser Reservoir, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping with scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Black Sandy State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A popular Montana state park on Hauser Reservoir, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping with scenic views.
"A fantastic find for RV camping right on the lake, offering great water access."
🚗 Gravel Road Caution
Drive slowly on the gravel roads leading to the park, especially downhill. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Fill Water Before Arriving
Water hookups are limited; fill your tanks at the dump station before reaching your campsite. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hauser Reservoir Waterfront
Along Hauser Reservoir
Enjoy boating, fishing, and water skiing on this beautiful lake. Perfect for a day of aquatic fun.
Scenic Sunrise Overlook
Park Overlook
Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the lake, with fish often jumping in the water below.
Lewis and Clark Trail Access
Park Entrance
Walk a portion of the historic Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, passing through the expedition's 1805 route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gravel Roads
Peak Season Popularity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Gravel Road Caution
Drive slowly on the gravel roads leading to the park, especially downhill. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Fill Water Before Arriving
Water hookups are limited; fill your tanks at the dump station before reaching your campsite. :droplet:
🚤 Weekend Boat Traffic
Expect heavy boat traffic and activity on weekends. :boat:
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat
The sun can be intense, especially near the water. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Gravel Road Caution
Drive slowly on the gravel roads leading to the park, especially downhill. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Fill Water Before Arriving
Water hookups are limited; fill your tanks at the dump station before reaching your campsite. :droplet:
🚤 Weekend Boat Traffic
Expect heavy boat traffic and activity on weekends. :boat:
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat
The sun can be intense, especially near the water. :sunwithface:
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times within the park. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Black Sandy State Park is a beloved local spot for water recreation, offering camping with essential amenities like electric hookups. Visitors appreciate the beautiful reservoir setting and access for boating and fishing. However, some find the campsites too close together, and the gravel road approach requires careful driving.
"Well maintained, reasonably priced campground. A couple of miles of dirt roads coming in. Make sure to fill your water tank at the dump station before you get to the campground. Good 50 amp electric and bathrooms are clean. Lovely sites right on the river. BUT they are so close together we couldn’t put out our awnings. Very popular spot for local families to bring their boats."
Martha Olney
"A very nice little state park. Well maintained and with necessary facilities for tents, RV, boat docks/ramp, and swimming. RV spaces are 2 per space. There is AC power, water and a dump station for the traditional fee of $5.00. Additional parking is available. Volunteer staff were courteous and friendly. We never did see the park store open, but that may be a ‘seasonal’ thing.
Driving into the park, be careful of the downhill, gravel roads. You could very easily loose control coming down into the parks. Also, there is a narrow road past the park that will take you to Hauser Dam.
The park is convenient for visiting Helena, The Gates of the Mountains, and other river related facilities.
One final word, it’s beautiful to walk up to the overlook in the morning and see the sunrise with fish jumping around the lake."
Abner Shoemaker
"Beautiful lake. I was only there a few minutes but the drive is nice (minus the dirt road lol)"
Renee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Sandy State Park is located near Helena, Montana. The final approach involves a few miles of gravel roads, so drive with caution. It's accessible by car and offers parking for visitors and boat trailers.
No, the road leading into Black Sandy State Park is primarily gravel for a few miles. Travelers advise driving slowly and carefully, especially on downhill sections.
Yes, there is a narrow road past the park that leads to Hauser Dam. Be aware that this road can be tight.
The closest major city is Helena, Montana, making the park a convenient destination for those visiting or living in the area.
The drive to the park itself can be scenic, especially with the views of Hauser Reservoir. The park also lies along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific entrance fees aren't always detailed, reviews mention a traditional fee of $5.00 for amenities like AC power and water hookups for RVs. It's best to check the official Montana State Parks website for the most current pricing.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and during peak season, as the park is very popular for camping and boating. Some visitors have been able to secure spots last minute, but it's not guaranteed.
State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk, but camping facilities operate 24/7. The park store may have seasonal hours and was noted as not always being open.
Camp hosts are available and have provided options for available spots even at dusk, suggesting some flexibility. However, having a reservation is the safest bet.
Information on specific discounts is not readily available. It's advisable to check with Montana State Parks for any potential senior, military, or other discount programs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park is a hub for water recreation, including boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming. Hiking is also possible, and the park offers access to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. 
While the lake is beautiful, one reviewer noted it's not a particularly good swimming area. It's more geared towards boating and other water sports.
Hiking trails are not immediately obvious, but visitors can explore the park's perimeter and access parts of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
The park offers RV camping with 50 amp electric and water hookups, as well as tent sites. Bathrooms are clean and relatively new. Sites can be close together.
Yes, it's a popular spot for local families, especially for boating and outdoor activities. However, the close proximity of campsites might be a consideration for some families.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrises over Hauser Reservoir from the overlook, the unique shoreline, and the boats on the water. The Lewis and Clark Trail markers also offer historical photo ops.
Early mornings for sunrise and late evenings for sunset offer the best light. Golden hour can provide beautiful, soft lighting on the water and landscape.
The park overlook is frequently mentioned for its morning sunrise views. The waterfront itself provides ample opportunities to photograph the lake and activities.
Landscape photography of the reservoir, wildlife (like jumping fish), and recreational activities (boating, fishing) are popular subjects.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with Montana State Parks for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation within the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the peak weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The scenic overlook is also a great spot for families to enjoy a sunrise or sunset together.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
+1Ensure your boat is ready to launch and consider bringing your fishing gear. The reservoir is known for its recreational opportunities, making this park a prime destination for anglers and boaters alike.
🚗 RV Campers
While the park is popular, securing a spot might be possible even at dusk if you're lucky, though reservations are strongly recommended. The convenience to Helena and other attractions makes it a practical base for exploring the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Recreation Hub
+1While the reservoir is beautiful, one reviewer noted that it might not be the best spot for swimming. The focus here is clearly on active water sports. If you're looking to spend your time on or in the water, Black Sandy State Park delivers a vibrant experience.
Camping and Facilities
A practical tip for campers is to fill your water tank at the dump station before reaching your campsite, as water availability at individual sites can be limited. The park also has a dump station for traditional fees. While a park store exists, its operating hours can be seasonal and it's not always open.
Historical Significance
While dedicated hiking trails might not be prominently marked, visitors can explore the park's surroundings and connect with this significant piece of American history. It offers a chance to reflect on the journey of Lewis and Clark while enjoying the natural beauty of Montana.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit