Black Sandy State Park is a boaters and fishers dream. If you are looking for some water recreation, this is a place for you! Located on the Missouri River, just outside of Helena, Black Sandy State Park is basically a campground on a boat dock.
They have 29 campsites. Some of them are just for tent campers and a short walk from the parking lot. But every campsite is along the water with incredible views. All of the RV sites have power. Water and sewer are available just before entering the campground ($5 fee for sewer)
The park has a boat ramp and seems to be a prime spot for people looking to get out on the water. Most people seem to put-in at this spot and then go further away. They aren’t lingering in this area. Though this spot is calm and would be perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking.
My experience:
Black Sandy State Park was a pivot visit for me. It’s a busy time in Montana and finding a camping spot has been a challenge. When I called Montana State Parks, this park had a spot open for two nights. Often my unplanned or unscheduled parks tend to be highlights for me. Black Sandy has been a treat.
While their isn’t a lot for me to do here, the few hiking trails are lovely. It’s also adjacent to a National Forest, so I could take advantage of those trails. What I’ve discovered is now much I love watching the water and the boaters. I may not want to do this for an entire week, but it’s a real treat to relax and soak up the sun.
Basics
Location: Helena, Montana
Parking: 29 campsites with parking for 1 vehicle, plus day-use parking just past the campground. You can also find parking further up the road for a few vehicles.
Bathrooms: Bathrooms are available at the campground and beside both parking areas.
What to wear: Layers. I visited in the summer and it was chilly in the mornings. By 9:30 am I was in a tank top because the sun was so hot. Then back into a sweatshirt in the evenings.
What to pack: The hikes I went on were under 2 miles. I packed water for Tootsie (the dog) and and a light layer top for me. Though I have heard that if you cross the dam, you will come across much longer trails. In that case I’d plan on more water, snacks or a meal, and consider trekking poles (depending on the terrain)
Pets: This park is very dog friendly. You just need to keep them on a leash. Tootsie was into the boats, barking when one would go by. I have lots of treats to attempt to train that out of her.