Over two million acres of wild prairie land span northeastern Montana, featuring plains, rivers, and various flora and fauna. This is the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
With its diverse landscape and unique history, the Fort Peck Indian Reservation offers a variety of cultural sites and outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors. These include fishing, hiking, exploring Fort Peck Reservoir, and learning the region’s history.
Read on for the top 10 things to do on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
Top 10 things to do on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation
We outline some of the top things to see and do on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation below:
- Fort Peck Interpretive Center & Museum. Discover the history of the Fort Peck Dam and the paleontological discoveries of the region via the extensive collection of fossils and artifacts (located in the town of Fort Peck, just outside of the Reservation).
- Downstream Campground. Experience the serene environment of Fort Peck Dam by camping in a well-equipped facility along the shores of the Fort Peck Reservoir. This campsite sits near the town of Fort Peck, but it’s still located off the beaten path.
- The Fort Peck Theatre. Enjoy a performance at this historic theatre which offers a variety of plays and musicals during the summer season (located in Fort Peck).
- Fishing the Missouri River. Cast a line in the mighty Missouri River, known for its excellent fishing, particularly for walleye and northern pike.
- Hunting. The Fort Peck Indian Reservation offers excellent hunting grounds for grouse, partridge, elk, deer, and antelope. Tribal permits are needed for these activities.
- Annual powwows. Several powwows are held on the Reservation each year, showcasing Native American culture and traditions, including the Red Bottom and Badlands Celebrations in June, the Fort Kipp Celebration in July, the Wadopana Celebration in August, and the Poplar Indian Days in September.
- Poplar Indian Days. Engage with the community during the Fort Peck Reservation’s most festive annual powwow located in Poplar, featuring traditional dancing, food, and crafts.
- Lewis and Clark Observation Point. Hikers can trek to one of northeastern Montana’s highest vantage points at the Lewis and Clark Observation Point, located just northeast of Fort Peck near the border of the reservation. This trail rewards with breathtaking views where the Missouri and Milk Rivers meet alongside vistas of the Milk Coulee Bay and Fort Peck Lake.
- Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The Medicine Lake Refuge, located just east of the reservation, offers over 31,000 acres of stunning landscape, featuring exhilarating hikes, wildlife-watching opportunities, and various bodies of water. The refuge is accessible from Wolf Point via a scenic drive.
- Historic locations. Explore historical wonders at the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, ranging from tipi rings to buffalo jumps. For a respectful visit to these sacred sites, call the tribal office at 406-768-5156.
Visit the Fort Peck Indian Reservation
The Fort Peck Indian Reservation offers visitors the opportunity to experience the traditions and culture of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes. Occupying a swath of land in the beautiful northeastern region of Montana, the Reservation also offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.
If you’re planning a trip here, keep in mind that life on the reservation faces unique challenges. However, with some common sense and awareness, anyone can safely enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
