The gently rolling terrain of Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is dominated by native mixed-grass prairie and surrounded by mountain ranges on three sides: the Highwood Mountains to the east, the Big Belt Mountains to the south, and the Rocky Mountains to the west. The Refuge is located at the western edge of the f
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- 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 406-727-7400 · bentonlake@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
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 Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Benton Lake Wetland Management District
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Montana Fish Wildlife and Parls / CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Freezeout Lake
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
