Martinsdale Reservoir: A Hidden Gem on the Prairie

Just a few miles from town, tucked into the sweeping grasslands beneath the Crazy Mountains, Martinsdale Reservoir offers a peaceful pause and a true taste of rural Montana beauty.

Built as part of the irrigation system supporting ranches across the Musselshell River Valley, the reservoir may be man-made, but the experiences it offers are as natural and simple as they come. Whether you’re here to fish, paddle, or just sit back and take in the view, Martinsdale Reservoir is a favorite local escape for folks who know where to look.

Anglers love it for the rainbow and brown trout that cruise its cold, clean waters. Ice fishing in winter is popular too—just bundle up and bring a thermos. You won’t find a marina or boat rentals here, but the reservoir is open to non-motorized boats and small watercraft, making it perfect for kayaks and canoes.

The shoreline is quiet and uncrowded, with wide-open skies and postcard-perfect views of the Crazy Mountains rising in the distance. It’s not uncommon to spot antelope, hawks, and the occasional eagle overhead, especially in the early morning or evening.

If you’re looking to stretch your legs, the land around the reservoir makes for good walking—though keep in mind this is mostly primitive recreation. No formal trails, no snack bars, no crowds. Just the breeze, the birds, and the sound of water lapping the shore.

There are a few campsites nearby, mostly first-come, first-served. Bring your own supplies, pack out what you pack in, and prepare for little to no cell service. It’s rustic—but that’s the point.

Whether you’re planning a day trip from the Crazy Mountain Inn or looking for a quiet place to cast a line, Martinsdale Reservoir is the kind of spot that stays with you. Simple, scenic, and just a little wild—Montana at its best.

For more information, check out the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks website.