About Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)
Matthews Recreation Area is accessed by gravel road and features a number of picnic tables, grills and a covered dining area. The Yellowstone River can be accessed by canoe or kayak; however no improved boat launch facilities are present. Fishing, bird watching and wildlife viewing are frequent activities at this site. Overnight camping is permitted. This is a 'Pack In, Pack Out' area and all garbage must be removed. No fireworks are allowed. Be mindful of seasonal and area fire restrictions. Individuals or organizations wishing to use the site for group activities maybe required to get a Special Recreation Permit. This depends on the type ofactivity planned, the number of participants and the duration of use.Do yourself and your guests a favor and contact the field office beforehand to check for other scheduled events orcalendaring conflicts. BLM staff need some lead time to prepare the paperwork if a permit is needed. For event scheduling details, contact us at (406) 233-2800.Facilities: restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, standing grills, covered picnic area, interpretive kiosk, handicap accessible fishing platform and cement walking path. While there are no dumpsters, there are a few city-maintained garbage bins on site. Please remove your own garbage and do not leave any trash outside of the designated bins. Please call the local BLM Office for current recreation site conditions and restrictions
How to Get There
Travel 9 miles northeast of Miles City on Valley Drive East. At the sign for Matthews Recreation Area, turn left (Tusler Road), go across the railroad tracks. Follow the road and take a left at the BLM Matthews Recreation Area sign.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)
Heading to Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)? 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 Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)?
No central reservation system listed for Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/274381) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)?
Travel 9 miles northeast of Miles City on Valley Drive East. At the sign for Matthews Recreation Area, turn left (Tusler Road), go across the railroad tracks. Follow the road and take a left at the BLM Matthews Recreation Area sign.
How do I contact Matthews Recreation Area (SRMA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-896-5298 or email: BLM_MT_SO_Information@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
