The 2022 historic flooding left a lasting mark on Cooney Reservoir, with sustained high water and wave action causing significant erosion across the park’s shoreline. To protect the park’s infrastructure and prevent further washouts, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is launching a stabilization project this spring.
While these repairs are essential for the long-term health of the park, they will require some temporary closures and shifts in visitor access between April 6 and May 13.
Areas Impacted
The restoration work focuses on stabilizing the banks and raising infrastructure to withstand future high-water events. Please plan your visit according to the following restrictions:
- Marshall Cove Campground: This area will be fully closed to the public, including the boat ramp and day-use area. Crews will be raising the height of the shoreline road and the ramp to improve resilience.
- Red Lodge Campground: Expect partial closures. While the boat ramp day-use area remains open, several campsites and the adjacent shoreline access will be unavailable.
- Lake Shore Road: Stabilization efforts will also take place near Fisherman’s Point Campground; visitors should expect increased truck and equipment traffic in this corridor.
Where to Go Instead
If your preferred site is under construction, Cottonwood Campground will remain available to campers. Most other areas of the park remain open for recreation, provided visitors use caution around active construction zones.
Timeline
FWP anticipates the project will wrap up by mid-May, though completion dates may change based on weather and construction progress. These efforts are a necessary investment to ensure Cooney State Park remains a safe and accessible destination for seasons to come.
For the most current status on site restrictions and reopening dates, please consult the FWP Official Restrictions Page.
Photo via Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
