Lost Creek State Park
Montana’s Hidden Canyon — 1,200-Foot Cliffs, a 50-Foot Waterfall & Mountain Goats
Lost Creek State Park is a geological spectacle tucked into a narrow canyon 6 miles north of Anaconda in southwestern Montana. The park’s defining feature: grey limestone cliffs and pink-and-white granite formations that rise 1,200 feet above the canyon floor, creating a dramatic walled corridor unlike anything else in Montana’s state park system. At the head of the canyon, Lost Creek Falls plunges 50 feet down the rock face — a short walk from the campground.
But the cliffs aren’t just scenery — they’re habitat. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are regularly spotted scaling the canyon walls, making this one of the most reliable locations in Montana for viewing these animals in the wild. Golden eagles soar above the rim, and pikas (small, rock-dwelling mammals related to rabbits) inhabit the talus slopes. The park connects to the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offering trail extensions for longer hikes and mountain biking. With just 25 first-come, first-served campsites and no reservations, Lost Creek rewards those who arrive early and embrace its rustic, intimate character.
Things to Do
Lost Creek Falls
The park’s signature attraction — a 50-foot waterfall at the head of the canyon, accessible via a short walking trail from the campground. The falls are most impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt swells the creek. By late August, flow may diminish significantly.
Wildlife Viewing
The canyon’s towering cliffs create prime habitat for:
- Mountain goats: Look for white dots on the cliff faces — they’re frequently visible from the campground and trails
- Bighorn sheep: Often spotted on the lower rock formations, particularly in morning and evening
- Golden eagles: Nest on the cliff ledges and soar above the canyon
- Pikas: Listen for their distinctive high-pitched “eep!” calls in the rocky talus slopes
Hiking & Mountain Biking
The park’s internal trail to the falls is short and accessible. For longer adventures, trails extend into the surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offering miles of backcountry hiking and mountain biking through Montana’s Pioneer Mountains.
Fishing
Lost Creek offers stream fishing for small trout. The creek runs through the campground area. Montana fishing license required.
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lost Creek Falls Trail | ~1 mi RT | Easy | 50-foot waterfall; canyon walls; wildflowers; mountain goat habitat |
| National Forest Connector | Multi-mile | Moderate–Strenuous | Extends into Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF; Pioneer Mountains; backcountry |
Camping
| Type | Sites | Amenities | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campground | ~25 sites | Vault toilets; fire rings; picnic tables; water spigots | First-come, first-served ONLY; no reservations; RV limit 23 feet |
Season: The campground is typically open from mid-to-late May through November 30, depending on weather conditions.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Late Spring (May–Jun) | ⭐ PEAK: Waterfall at full volume; wildflowers; mountain goat kids; green canyon | Campground may open late; snow possible; check road conditions |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Full access; warm days; wildlife active; evening campfire weather | Waterfall flow decreases; arrive early for campsites — they fill fast |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | ⭐ Golden larch and aspen; bighorn sheep rutting season; fewer visitors | Cold nights; shorter days; campground closes Nov 30 |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | Cross-country skiing; snowshoeing; winter canyon photography | Campground closed; road may be impassable; day-use only if accessible |
Visitor Tips
- No reservations: All 25 campsites are first-come, first-served. During summer weekends, sites can fill by early afternoon. Arrive before noon on Fridays if you want a weekend spot.
- RV limit: The campground road and sites accommodate vehicles up to 23 feet maximum. Larger RVs and trailers cannot navigate the tight turns.
- Bring binoculars: Mountain goats and bighorn sheep on the 1,200-foot cliffs are visible to the naked eye, but binoculars make the experience dramatically better. Scan the cliff faces at dawn and dusk.
- Waterfall timing: For the most impressive falls, visit in late May or June when snowmelt peaks. By August, the creek can slow to a trickle.
- Anaconda proximity: The town of Anaconda (6 miles south) provides gas, groceries, and dining. Stock up before entering the park — there are no services inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see mountain goats at Lost Creek State Park?
Yes — Lost Creek State Park is one of the most reliable locations in Montana for viewing mountain goats in the wild. The park’s 1,200-foot limestone and granite cliffs provide natural habitat, and goats are frequently spotted scaling the canyon walls. They are often visible from the campground and trails without binoculars, though binoculars significantly enhance the experience. Early morning and late evening offer the best viewing opportunities.
Can you reserve a campsite at Lost Creek State Park?
No — all 25 campsites at Lost Creek are first-come, first-served only, with no reservation system. During summer weekends, sites typically fill by early afternoon. For the best chance of securing a site, arrive before noon, especially on Fridays. The campground is open from approximately mid-to-late May through November 30.
Last updated: April 2026
