Montana Park of the Week: Smith River State Park

Feeling lucky? Experience a multi-day float trip on the Smith River if you are lucky enough to draw a permit in the annual lottery. Prepare yourself; the application window is from January 3rd to February 15th. Apply online here: https://ols.fwp.mt.gov.

Noted for its spectacular scenery and renowned trout fishing, the Smith River is unique, with only one public put-in and take-out site for the entire 59 miles.

The Smith River is a wonderful 59-mile long river full of natural beauty, with excellent boating, fishing, and photographic opportunities.Permits to float the river are highly sought after and distributed through a lottery system similar to hunting licenses for certain big game species in Montana.

Many find Smith River State Park a place of peace because a permit is required to float the Smith River. This permit requirement means visitors can expect a quality, multi-day float with relative solitude and excellent trout fishing opportunities.

Of course, you don't need a permit to access the campground and enjoy all the natural splender of the area.