Brush Lake State Park
Montana’s Remote Alkaline Lake — Crystal-Clear Water, Sandy Beaches, Dark-Sky Stargazing & 12-Site Campground Near Plentywood
Brush Lake State Park is a 12-site campground on the shores of Brush Lake in far northeastern Montana, approximately 31 miles south of Plentywood. The park preserves one of Montana’s most unusual natural features — a crystal-clear, deep, alkaline lake with sandy beaches, no fish, and some of the darkest night skies in the state. Brush Lake supports no fishery due to its high mineral and alkali content — instead, visitors come for swimming, boating, waterskiing, birding, stargazing, and genuine solitude on the remote northern Great Plains.
The campground features 10 standard electric sites and 2 double electric sites, all with fire pits and picnic tables. A paved boat ramp with dock provides access for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Brush Lake’s remoteness — hours from any city — is its greatest asset: no crowds, no light pollution, and the vast Montana sky overhead. For visitors seeking an experience completely removed from civilization, Brush Lake delivers.
Things to Do
Swimming
- Sandy beaches: The lake’s alkaline water is remarkably clear — the sandy shoreline provides excellent swimming access
- Warm surface water: The shallow margins warm quickly in summer
- No lifeguards: Swim at your own risk
Boating & Water Sports
- Paved boat ramp with dock: Access for motorized and non-motorized watercraft
- Waterskiing: Permitted and popular in summer
- Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding
Stargazing
Brush Lake’s extreme remoteness provides exceptional dark-sky conditions — among the darkest in Montana. The Milky Way, planets, and meteor showers are visible with stunning clarity. Bring binoculars or a telescope for an unforgettable experience.
Birding & Wildlife
- Shorebirds and waterfowl: The alkaline lake attracts unique species
- Raptors: Hawks and eagles on the surrounding plains
- Grassland wildlife: Pronghorn, mule deer, and coyotes in the surrounding prairie
Important: No Fishing
Brush Lake does NOT support fish due to its high mineral and alkali content. Do not plan a fishing trip to Brush Lake — there are no fish of any species in the lake.
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sites | 12 total (10 standard electric + 2 double electric) |
| Amenities | Fire pit and picnic table at each site; potable water (seasonal); vault toilets |
| Season | May 1 – January 1 (weather permitting) |
| ADA | Accessible features available |
| Pets | Allowed on leash |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ PEAK: Swimming; waterskiing; sandy beaches warm; Milky Way rising; longest days | Remote — stock up on supplies; mosquitoes possible; thunderstorms |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Fall color on plains; spectacular stargazing; solitude; cool camping | Cold nights; shorter days; check road conditions |
| Spring (May–Jun) | Birding peak; wildflowers; quiet opening season; warming | Variable weather; muddy roads possible; cold lake |
| Winter | Park typically closed (Jan 1 – May 1) | — |
Visitor Tips
- Stock up: Brush Lake is 31 miles from Plentywood — the nearest town with groceries, fuel, and services. Stock up completely before arriving. There are no stores, restaurants, or fuel stations anywhere near the park.
- No fish: The lake contains no fish at all — do not bring fishing gear expecting to catch anything. The high alkali content prevents any fish from surviving.
- Dark skies: This is one of Montana’s premier stargazing locations — virtually zero light pollution. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye on clear nights. Bring a star chart, binoculars, or a telescope.
- Crystal-clear water: The alkaline water is remarkably transparent — you can see the lake bottom clearly. The swimming experience is unique and otherworldly.
- 12 sites only: With only 12 campsites, the park has a genuinely intimate feel. Solitude is virtually guaranteed, even on summer weekends.
- Directions: From Plentywood, take MT-16, then east on Highway 258 (East Reserve Highway) for 16.5 miles, then south on Brush Lake County Road for 1 mile. Signs are posted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fish at Brush Lake Montana?
No — Brush Lake does not support any fish due to its high mineral and alkali content. The lake’s unique chemistry prevents fish from surviving. Visitors come to Brush Lake for swimming, boating, waterskiing, birding, and stargazing rather than fishing. If you are looking for fishing in the area, other lakes and rivers in northeastern Montana offer fishing opportunities — check with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for nearby options.
Is Brush Lake State Park good for stargazing?
Yes — Brush Lake State Park is one of Montana’s best locations for stargazing. Its extreme remoteness — 31 miles from the nearest town of Plentywood — means virtually zero light pollution. On clear nights, the Milky Way, planets, meteor showers, and thousands of stars are visible to the naked eye. The park’s 12-site campground ensures minimal campfire light from other visitors. Bring binoculars or a telescope for an even more dramatic experience. Summer and fall offer the best stargazing conditions with warm enough temperatures for extended night viewing.
Last updated: May 2026
