Tongue River Reservoir
United States, Montana
About Tongue River Reservoir
Tongue River Reservoir State Park encompasses 640 acres around a 12-mile-long reservoir in Big Horn County in southeastern Montana. The reservoir provides excellent warm-water fishing and recreation in the scenic sandstone country near the Northern Cheyenne Reservation.
Wildlife Ecosystems
The reservoir supports walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie. Mule deer and pronghorn inhabit the surrounding terrain. Raptors including golden eagles hunt the grasslands, and waterfowl congregate on the reservoir.
Flora Ecosystems
Ponderosa pine grows on sandstone outcrops and north-facing slopes. Sagebrush and native grasses cover the drier terrain. Juniper dots the landscape. Cottonwoods line the Tongue River above the reservoir.
Geology
The reservoir was created by Tongue River Dam on the Tongue River, which flows north from the Bighorn Mountains. The surrounding terrain features eroded sandstone formations of the Fort Union Formation, creating scenic badlands-like landscapes.
Climate And Weather
Southeastern Montana experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters. Annual precipitation averages about 14 inches. The reservoir area can be very hot in summer with temperatures exceeding 100°F.
Human History
The Tongue River area is historically significant to the Northern Cheyenne people. The Battle of the Tongue River occurred during the Indian Wars. The reservoir was built in 1939 for irrigation.
Park History
Tongue River Reservoir State Park was developed around the irrigation reservoir to provide recreation in southeastern Montana. The park has become one of the state's premier warm-water fishing destinations.
Major Trails And Attractions
Fishing for walleye and smallmouth bass is excellent. Boating and swimming provide summer recreation. The scenic sandstone terrain and ponderosa pine add character. Camping serves overnight visitors.
Visitor Facilities And Travel
The park offers camping, boat ramps, and day-use facilities at multiple sites around the reservoir. It is located about 6 miles north of Decker on a county road, approximately 60 miles south of Miles City.
Conservation And Sustainability
Water management balances irrigation and recreation. Fish management maintains diverse warm-water populations. The park provides important recreation access in a sparsely populated region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tongue River Reservoir located?
Tongue River Reservoir is located in Montana, United States at coordinates 45.1153, -106.7965.
How do I get to Tongue River Reservoir?
To get to Tongue River Reservoir, the nearest city is Decker (6 mi), and the nearest major city is Sheridan, WY (40 mi).
How large is Tongue River Reservoir?
Tongue River Reservoir covers approximately 2.6 square kilometers (1 square miles).
When was Tongue River Reservoir established?
Tongue River Reservoir was established in 1939.
