Skip to main content
Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Clark Canyon Reservoir

Dell, Idaho · Beaverhead County

Recreation on Clark Canyon Reservoir and Barrett's Diversion Dam, located on the Beaverhead River south of Dillon, Montana, is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Clark Canyon Reservoir is the site of Camp Fortunate, one of the more significant spots along the Lewis and Clark Trail. It was at Camp Fortunate that the …

Advertisement
44.99908, -112.85501
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Clark Canyon Reservoir

Recreation on Clark Canyon Reservoir and Barrett's Diversion Dam, located on the Beaverhead River south of Dillon, Montana, is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Clark Canyon Reservoir is the site of Camp Fortunate, one of the more significant spots along the Lewis and Clark Trail. It was at Camp Fortunate that the Lewis and Clark expedition met the Lemhi Shoshoni Tribe and Sacagawea was reunited with her people. The Lewis and Clark Expedition cached their canoes and a stash of suppliesat this location for the return trip. The Camp Fortunate Interpretive Site presents information about the Lewis and Clark campsite and about their journey. Clark County Reservoir, with 4,935 water surface acres, 4,388 land surface acres and 17 miles of shoreline, offers good fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Concrete boat ramps, picnic areas and picnic shelters are available. There are 9 campgrounds, including on RV-only lot, for a total of 96 campsites. The Cattail Marsh nature trail offers wildlife watching opportunities for seasonal waterfowl. Clark Canyon Dam and Barretts Diversion Dam are features of the East Bench Unit of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program.

Plan Your Visit to Clark Canyon Reservoir

Heading to Clark Canyon Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Clark Canyon Reservoir?

No central reservation system listed for Clark Canyon Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/131) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Clark Canyon Reservoir?

Take I-15 south 11 miles from Dillon to Reservoir. Most campgrounds are on MT secondary route 324.

How do I contact Clark Canyon Reservoir?

You can reach the park at phone: 406-683-6472 or email: GPWebmaster@gp.usbr.gov.