The Helena Valley Unit is in central Montana, adjoining the city of Helena, Montana, and 3.5 miles west of Canyon Ferry Dam on the Missouri River. The principal purposes of the unit are irrigation and municipal water for the city of Helena. Features of the development are a tunnel, dam and regulating reservoir, canal,
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 406-444-2535
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Helena Valley Reservoir — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Helena Valley Reservoir?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Helena Valley Reservoir. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Forest Service Northern Region / CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Canyon Ferry Lake
ConfirmedOne of the few Bureau of Reclamation sites that accept the pass.
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
CheckThis Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
