Makoshika State Park encompasses 11,538 acres at an elevation of 2,415 feet. The name Makoshika (Ma-ko'-shi-ka) is a variant spelling of a Lakota phrase meaning 'bad land' or 'bad earth'. Today, as Montana's largest state park, the badlands of Makoshika are set aside for visitors to see and enjoy. In addition to the pine and juniper studded badland formations, the park also houses the fossil remai
ns of such dinosaurs as Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. Included within the park are scenic drives, nature trails, a campground with 15 sites, several rustic tent sites, a group picnic area, and an outdoor amphitheater. A newly remodeled visitor center (with a gift shop) at the park entrance houses a Triceratops and T-rex skull and other badland interpretive displays. The park offers special events throughout the summer, including Montana Shakespeare in the Park, a Summer Youth Program and the famous 'Buzzard Day' in June celebrating the return of the turkey vulture to eastern Montana. Visitors are asked not to bring metal detectors, and no digging, collecting or removal of artifacts is allowed.
