About Br-12 Watchable Wildlife
This 200-acre prairie marsh in northcentral Montana holds a narrow reservoir about one mile long. This reservoir acts as a prairie pothole with its tailwaters slowly drying during the summer and fall. This water cycle permits waterfowl to hatch and raise young in this relatively isolated, resource-rich area, then move fledglings to major waters like the Missouri River. BR-12 also provides habitat for migrating waterfowl, upland birds, and upland wildlife species, so it’s not uncommon to observe 20-30 species in one spring day. Canvasback and redhead ducks regularly nest in the tailwaters, pelicans and tundra swans stop by for a rest and snack on their journeys, and even black terns (a species of concern) and loons have been observed utilizing BR-12’s “waterfowl facilities.” The area around BR-12 is short-grass prairie habitat. Species you might see associated with this habitat include chestnut-collared and McCowan’s longspur, horned lark, northern harrier, ferruginous hawk, Swainson’s hawk, burrowing owl, pronghorn, coyote, red fox, ground squirrel, and badger. Season/Hours: Year–round, but viewing is best in the spring.
How to Get There
From Zurich on US Hqy 2, turn north onto to Cherry Ridge Road, drive about eight miles and turn right (east) into the BR-12 area. There are Wildlife Viewing Area Signs on Highway 2 and Cherry Ridge Road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Br-12 Watchable Wildlife
Heading to Br-12 Watchable Wildlife? 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 Br-12 Watchable Wildlife?
No central reservation system listed for Br-12 Watchable Wildlife. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/262749) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Br-12 Watchable Wildlife?
From Zurich on US Hqy 2, turn north onto to Cherry Ridge Road, drive about eight miles and turn right (east) into the BR-12 area. There are Wildlife Viewing Area Signs on Highway 2 and Cherry Ridge Road.
How do I contact Br-12 Watchable Wildlife?
You can reach the park at phone: 1 (406) 262-2856 or email: BLM_MT_Havre_FO@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
