05/22/2026
Plan your trip to Glendive ๐คฉ
www.discoverglendive.com
Montanaโs Badlands Experience
Makoshika State Park spanning 11,538 acres of spectacular badland formations, jagged hoodoos, and cap rocks just southeast of Glendive, Montana, offers a slice of badlands magic, with layered rock formations that twist like frozen waves. Fossils from dinosaurs litter the ground, hinting at ancient life in these dry hills. It stands apart from the mountain parks, pulling you into a rugged, otherworldly spot.
The park sits on the famous late Cretaceous Hell Creek Formation. It serves as a major treasure trove for prehistoric discoveries, with over 10 different dinosaur species unearthed here.
The name "Makoshika" (Ma-ko'-shi-ka) comes from a variant spelling of the Lakota phrase mako sica, meaning "bad land" or "bad earth".
Camp under the stars and enjoy awesome views at dawn or dusk when the light paints the rocks in soft gold. Makoshika State Park also has exhibits in the visitor center located at the park entrance, the center displays a complete Triceratops horridus skull, Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils, and rare Thescelosaurus remains. It is a key stop along the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
Photo from Montana State Parks
Treasure State Lifestyles Montana