Launching loaded boats from a trailer is possible at both ramps, but best from the downstream boat ramp. Another popular campground within the Montana portion of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is the Trail Creek Campground. Thanks Craig for your attention to detail and great support. The boat camps are signed and marked on the Smith River maps, which are distributed at Camp Baker upon registration. in Recreation Resource Management from the University of Montana - Missoula. Strict permit restrictions require private boaters to enter a lottery system months in advance to get a launch date and commercial outfitters are few. Dude Ranches and Guest Ranches are found all over the USA, Canada and Mexico for great family vacations. View boat camps and mileages to plan your trip. You can obtain supplies, overnight accommodations, gasoline, water and information at White Sulphur Springs on your way to the put-in. Do not attempt to burn anything in the fire ring besides paper, wood or charcoal. Fires must be completely contained within the fire grate and fully extinguished. If you plan on camping and having a fire at Camp Baker, the same Leave No Trace principles as above apply. Floaters must carry their own food, water, safety, camping equipment and a fishing license. We are here to help you find the whitewater equipment and river gear that you need, for your upcoming river trip, your outfitting business or your river store. Don't cut fences, camp on private land without permission, litter or vandalize equipment. It’s Smith River Permit time in Montana! Montana’s Smith River is a true gem. Matt is the kind of guy that makes mortal men jealous. Rafting on the Rogue River is the ideal start to an all encompassing Oregon adventure vacation. FWP Region 4 Headquarters Floating the Smith River requires careful planning and preparation. However, these outfitters are allocated a specific number of launches on specific days throughout the float season and conduct fully outfitted float trips for persons not possessing a private float permit. It is best known for its towering canyon walls, hungry brown trout, and epic camp sites. Throughout its length, the Smith moves quickly with sharp turns, rocky shallows and snags in/or partially across the river. The park protects over 70,000 acres of land along the New River in the heart of West Virginia. But some rivers, like the Smith in central Montana, a which flows to the Missouri, hold their water well into summer. Making memories the family will never forget. IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW, EVERY BOAT MUST HAVE A LIFE JACKET ON BOARD FOR EACH PERSON. He began his career with Montana State Parks as a seasonal Park Ranger in 1996. Before you arrive at Camp Baker, your watercraft must be inspected and have a receipt as proof of inspection. Follow the directional signs 9.6 miles to Camp Baker. Beginning on Monday, March 08, 2021 you may call the Smith River Reservation Line at (406) 454-5861 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon Mountain Time to: In addition to the permit lottery, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they choose. Currently, seven outfitters are authorized to conduct commercial use on the Smith River with a total of 73 launches allocated among them. The Super Permit drawing will be announced on April 2nd, 2021. Make sure to lock your vehicles and leave no valuables in your vehicle at Camp Baker or Eden Bridge. The Smith River begins near White Sulphur Springs, Montana, at the confluence of the North and South Fork Smith River. ", "Good folks all around. Remember that Montana law requires the following: Launch Choice Reports If you wish to hire the services of an outfitter do not apply for a private permit in the drawing:  The outfitters are allocated a specific number of launches on specific days of the week and month. Smith River is a tributary of the Missouri River, in central Montana, southwest of the city of Great Falls. Now $159 (Was $̶2̶8̶2̶) on Tripadvisor: Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone, West Yellowstone. A current list of shuttle services is included on pages 16-19 of the Floater Information Packet. $2,250,000. Can I hire a person to perform services for me during my float trip (Example:  Row gear boat, cook meals, camp set-up etc.)? Mailing Address: Take to the Smith River in a raft, kayak, or paddle board for unforgettable adventures. The permitted outfitters are listed in this packet on page 20. Social distancing is still required per the Governor's statewide directive to reduce spread of COVID-19. Pets are prohibited; exceptions include legitimate service dogs and hunting dogs used for lawful purposes during legal hunting seasons. Clean, Drain and Dry your equipment. Some amenities are seasonal. BEN ALLAN SMITH, Missoulian Rafts and canoes are the most appropriate craft, although inflatable and solid-body kayaks, rowboats and drift boats are also taken down the river. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks ranger Craig Jones checks in floaters on the Smith River recently. All watercraft traveling from east of the Continental Divide must be inspected before launching on waters west of the Divide. Smith River State Park and River Corridor Biennial Rule, 2020  – Fees and administrative rules for private, commercial and landowner float trips in Smith River State Park. March 27 meeting has been cancelled. Superb fishing, gorgeous scenery and remote setting combine to make a Montana fly fishing trip on the Smith River an unforgettable experience. A minimum of two nights and three full days should be planned for normal water levels, which is 300+ cfs. Be a good steward and help protect Montana’s public lands by following these rules and regulations: Permits and fees are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge; permits are issued annually through a lottery. A Fisherman's Paradise Montana is home to some of the best fly fishing rivers, spring creeks and lakes on Earth YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE The Smith River is one of the finest rivers in Montana. These river corridors offer a diversity of year-round, semi-primitive recreation opportunities, such as fishing, hiking, backpacking, camping, wildlife and nature observation, expert kayaking and rafting, picnicking, swimming, hunting and photography. There isn't a week that goes by that he isn't fishing, skiing, hiking or rafting. I called my brother Connor who was already up, time to get moving. Colin Maas manages Smith River and Sluice Boxes State Parks. The float is 59 river miles from Camp Baker (put-in) to Eden Bridge (take-out). Several shuttle services can move your vehicle from Camp Baker to Eden Bridge. To help floaters, Montana State Parks recommends minimum flows for different types of watercraft. Noted for its spectacular scenery and renowned trout fishing, the Smith River is unique with only one public put-in and take-out site for the entire 59 miles. There are no public services from Camp Baker to Eden Bridge. Camp Baker is the put-in point, just 30-45 minutes West of White Sulfur Springs, MT. Craig was super informative and helpful and even took the time to give us tour advice for Great Falls. Important Dates – 2020. The Smith River permit lottery is accepting applications January 2 through February 14. DRY:  Dry your watercraft and fishing equipment thoroughly; this will kill most invasive species. Please note that fishing licenses are not sold at Camp Baker but may be purchased in the nearby town of White Sulphur Springs. Renowned trout fishing is just one of the recreational opportunities that make a float trip on the 59-mile Smith River an unforgettable experience. A rafting trip down the Smith River in Montana is considered to be a fishing trip, rather than a whitewater trip. One of the most sought-after whitewater adventures in the world, OARS Yampa River trip is an unforgettable Colorado river rafting adventure for kids, teens and ever-inquisitive travelers alike. Two outfitted trips are allowed to launch per day on Sundays and Wednesdays; one launch per day allowed on other days of the week. Go to. Smith River State Park offers gorgeous scenery in a remote setting. Q. Snow is possible and quite common in April and May and occasionally in June. One of the more popular activities here is whitewater rafting on the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. Q. Q. Montana State Parks announced Thursday that Missoula resident Stuart Goldberg, 43, is the 2013 Smith River “Super Permit” winner. For complete position descriptions, application forms, and details about Montana State Parks volunteer programs, visit the Volunteers page. Colin Maas, FWP Parks Division Representative, Mike Meloy, Corridor Landowner Representative, John Metrione, US Forest Service Representative, Mary Sheehy Moe, Montana State Parks & Recreation Board Representative, Ned Morgens, Corridor Landowner Representative. MONTANA Smith River Float Permit Cash &/or Checks for Float Fees for each person in the party Residents - $30 per person, Non-Residents - $60 per person. Help to enhance the feeling of solitude in the canyon by not using a chainsaw. Believed to be the nation's longest alpine river, the deceptively named Little River winds through the top of northern Alabama's Lookout Mountain for 12 miles, creating spectacular bluffs and scenic views that change color dramatically by the season. What can floaters do to prevent the spread of noxious weeds and aquatic invasive species (AIS)? Location: Fort Smith, Montana Feeding and harassing wildlife is prohibited and unsafe. Float groups will be expected to arrive at Camp Baker on the day of their scheduled launch date no later than 12:00 pm MDT to receive their copy of the registration form, boat tags, river maps and floater log and to receive the mandatory ranger safety and orientation talk. These are estimated levels listed to assist floaters in planning their trip. It’s even better when experienced with one of our vehicle rentals. The New River Gorge is the America’s 63rd National Park. Q. We offer rentals for all types of get aways. Lottery results are also available here. Fly fisherman from across the globe are heading to the Missouri River in Montana for perhaps the finest trout fishing in all the world. Also to buy firewood at Camp Baker. On average, floaters take four days to float. What type of fish are in the Smith River? Please do not occupy the boat ramp(s) until you have received your packet of materials, listened to the ranger safety and orientation talk and are prepared to launch. The river then twists and turns for more than 100 miles through remote and scenic landscapes before spilling into the Missouri River near Ulm, Montana. All boat camps have open pit toilets; please use them whenever possible. Drift through ancient redwoods on a mellow, family-friendly float, or experience world-class whitewater boating, all on one of the cleanest rivers in North America. To help preserve the unique quality of the Smith River canyon, overnight camping must take place at designated boat camps. See 935 traveler reviews, 689 candid photos, and great deals for Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone, ranked #6 of 40 hotels in West Yellowstone and rated 4.5 of 5 at Tripadvisor. Smith River State Park. However, it’s highly suggested that you arrive at Camp Baker with your own supply of firewood or purchase it at Camp Baker ($5 per bundle). Those who receive a permit will be contacted by phone two days prior to their launch date to complete the registration process, which includes declaring boat camps and paying the appropriate floats fees. The outfitters operate under a permanent launch calendar with their 73 launches scheduled on specific dates during the months of May, June, July and September. Ideal River levels for rafting and fishing the Smith River are 250cfs – 500cfs. There are seven (7) commercial outfitters who are authorized and permitted by Montana State Parks and the United States Forest Service to conduct commercial float trips on the Smith River. The Yellowstone River is ever-changing and we are happy to share any information to … Preserve natural and cultural resources – do not remove or damage. The river is managed on a permit system and you must apply for launch dates. Below 250cfs can be fantastic fishing towards the end of the season, however dragging boats (especially the first day) may be required. No. (The other is the Firehole River Swimming Area, but it’s only lukewarm.) (2). What kind of boats can be used on the Smith River and at what river flows? Op veel westelijke rivieren is het eerste raftingseizoen de lente, wanneer het smeltwater uit het hoge land de stroomversnellingen voedt en een dunk je onderkoelt. We are proud to offer the most extensive inventory of premium rental rafting equipment in the Bozeman area. Great Falls, MT 59405, Phone: 406-454-5840 Food, garbage and other attractants must be stored in a bear-resistant manner when unattended, day or night. On O.A.R. No person may cut living or dead standing trees for firewood or other purposes. Bonus — the river otters, porcupines and other animals that delight everyone. 4600 Giant Springs Rd Take State Secondary Road 360 (Fort Logan Road) west from White Sulphur Springs 16.6 miles to the Camp Baker turn-off. The most common type of litter left at campsites is half-burned plastic, aluminum foil, glass, eggshells, cigarette butts and melted aluminum cans left in the fire rings. It is advisable to bring all the drinking water you will need for the duration of your trip, as there is no drinking water available at the put-in location of Camp Baker. The “typical” float season runs from mid-April through mid-July, with occasional floating opportunities in September and October. They are not authorized to provide specific services for private permit holders. Yes, but they are strictly limited, both in the total number of outfitters and the number of launches that each outfitter is allocated. The number of launches allocated was determined by analyzing historic use levels. You can depend on the experts at Man of Rubber River Gear. A river ranger will greet you and deliver your packet of materials which includes a copy of your registration form, boat tags, river maps and a floater log. How many days does it take to float the Smith River? This streamflow monitoring gauge is named, “Smith River bl Eagle Cr nr Fort Logan MT” and is located approximately 1.5 miles downstream of the Camp Baker put-in. Keep in mind that there are no kennel options at Camp Baker; if you bring a dog or pet to Camp Baker, they will not be allowed to accompany you down the river and you will not be permitted to leave the animal at Camp Baker. Please call the Great Falls FWP office at (406) 454-5840 if you have any additional questions. Remember that the river is always changing, and you should adjust accordingly. The Smith River is managed as part of the Montana State Parks System and in cooperation with the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. See Publication #0723-2305MTDC at:  https://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/htmlpubs/htm07232305/index.htm, The original 7-strand electric fence developed by the USFS Technology Development Center is also an acceptable food storage option. Zomercirkel van familieleden Drijft: Smith River, Montana. The permit drawing  was conducted on Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021. CLEAN:  Completely remove all mud, water and vegetation and then use water to wash your equipment clean, before leaving the access area. There are only 2 public access points to the river that are 60 miles apart. How soon do I need to arrive at Camp Baker? As with fires, you should learn and practice Leave No Trace techniques with respect to human waste disposal in the backcountry. Will definitely be back! The Smith River flows between the Little Belt and Big Belt mountain ranges, which are conducive to dramatic and quick weather changes. Is there whitewater on the Smith River? Fees and rules for Smith River State Park and River Corridor are established under the authority of the Smith River Management Act and the Smith River Biennial Rule. To view the outfitter launch calendar, go to OutfitterLaunchCalendar. All boaters carrying or towing any watercraft must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations encountered in Montana. The Yampa River is the one major tributary in the Colorado River system that runs wild and free, straight to the heart of Dinosaur National Monument . River Rat … This is a good option for another chance for a float, if you aren't awarded a permit in the regular drawing. He was born and raised in Minot, ND. Q. The Smith River is a non-motorized river. In addition to the equipment you plan on using to comply with the mandatory Food Storage Regulation, we also strongly encourage you to bring bear pepper spray. If you find it necessary to gather firewood, avoid stripping an area of its entire supply. Discharge of firearms and weapons prohibited in boat camps. The Smith River float is arguably one of the coolest floats in the state, even the country. It can get really crowded in the summer, so get there early. Enjoy a peek into our crazy adventure… sorry for the “F” bomb that Matt drops just moments after consuming the largest gin & tonic I have ever seen. Q. FWP does not notify unsuccessful permit applicants. (1). The nation’s newest National Park was upgraded from a National River in 2021. However, some floaters may choose to construct a homemade fence and/or already possess a homemade fence that they’ve used elsewhere. You must carry all your own food, water, safety and camping equipment and fishing license. Matt just created a video recap of our trip to the Smith River. This does not mean that different watercraft types will not have trouble floating at levels above those given. Smith River State Park has one put-in point (Camp Baker) and one take-out point (Eden Bridge) for the entire 59-mile stretch. Enjoy this beautiful and historic stretch of river that has changed little since Lewis & Clark marveled at its “scenes of visionary enchantment.”. It is one of the uppermost major tributaries of the Columbia River, the largest North American river that empties into the Pacific Ocean. Yes, maximum group size for private and outfitted groups is 15 people. He spends over 140 days a year guiding fishing trips on Montana waters and in the off season he travels and hosts international trips to Patagonia, New Zealand and beyond. Yes. Montana is our home and Walleye is our game. Reclamation finalized the transfer of the Provo River Project South Branch Canal to the Utah Lake Distributing Company. A permit and payment of fees is required to float the Smith River year-round. Please note:  It is illegal for any unauthorized outfitter or individual to provide commercial services to Smith River floaters (This does not apply to vehicle shuttles or bed and breakfasts). Regulations specific to the Smith River can be found on page 9. Montana white water rafting is concentrated around Glacier National Park in the northwestern part of the state. Much of the equipment including rafting helmets and life jackets was found dumped on Missoula's north side. Since the Smith River flows through a remote canyon, there are some things to keep in mind for this adventure; there are no public services from Camp Baker to Eden Bridge. The following are questions that FWP personnel are often asked. Can we have campfires along the Smith River? Please repay the favor by respecting the landowner's property rights. FWP will notify successful applicants by email. Please camp only at the designated boat camps. If you're considering floating the Smith River, but not sure where to start, how to apply, what you'll need, etc., read this essential information and find answers to some Smith River frequently asked questions. The recipient of the permit will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing for that year. Brown's Canyon is known for being a hotbed of whitewater rafting on the Arkansas, which has carved out a stunning rocky space. Q. THe Flathead River, Smith River and more. The only exceptions are legitimate service dogs that accompany someone with a disability and hunting dogs used for lawful hunting purposes during legal hunting seasons. The Kootenay (Kootenai in the U.S. and historically called the Flatbow) is a major river in the Northwest Plateau, within the borders of southeastern British Columbia, Canada, and northern Montana and Idaho in the United States. Q. 'The North Fork Smith is one of the loveliest wilderness white water runs in the country, but because it it is so remote and because summer flows are too low, River floating requires a permit year-round. We encourage you to consider using one of the commercially available human waste pack-out systems. Walk-on floaters can grab open spots if a group fails to show for their launch. Hiring a person, group or organization to perform any type of service for compensation during a private permitted float trip on the Smith River is illegal outfitting. It's a wildlife study area and the campground on the headwaters of the Arkansas River is quite distinctive and unique. Everything that … Smith River State Park offers gorgeous scenery in a remote setting. See how many Smith River Permit applicants applied for specific dates on the calendar the previous year, including first, second and third choices and the grand total. Factor in probable river flows, distances you wish to cover each day and the type of experience you are seeking. Upon arrival on the day of your scheduled launch date, locate an unoccupied area in the grass island between the two boat launches where you can socially distance from other float groups. Camp Baker is available for all Smith River floaters and their families to stay overnight prior to beginning their float. Expect all types of weather conditions, especially in the spring. How do I get to the Camp Baker put-in? David Berger begründet in 67 Sekunden, warum er trotz seiner CDU-Mitgliedschaft dieses Mal mit Erst- und Zweitstimme die … The Sunriver Homeowners Aquatics & Recreation Center (SHARC)’s indoor play area has a huge hot tub for adults and a heated play pool for the kids. Do I dare say this river is the most scenic and fun Class IV rafting trip in California? The four-night limit includes nights spent at private cabins or guest ranches. For more information, see the Frequently Asked Questions below or apply for a permit through the lottery, using the button directly beneath the images at the top of the page. Q. The same principle applies to driftwood found along the river bank, as it serves as habitat shelter for fish. Q. It is advisable to carry a small trowel to properly dig the hole. From May 15 - July 15 floaters can stay on the river a maximum of four nights only. In some places, fences have been installed across the river to control livestock. Secure all equipment tightly in your boat and carry your gear in waterproof bags or boxes. These are just a few of our favorite trips. Q. Are commercial outfitters allowed on the Smith River? Is there a maximum group size for floating parties? The Super Permit lottery remains open until March 12. Q. Q. Bring good raingear, a complete first aid kit, adequate warm clothing, sunscreen, an extra paddle or oar for each boat, boat repair equipment and supplies, an extra day of food, extra life jacket, extra firewood and a five-gallon bucket and shovel for extinguishing fires. It didn’t take long for reputation and demand to grow, and Explore has since become the best reviewed car rental agency in Montana and the largest purveyor of rental camping gear, campervans, travel trailers, drift boats, rafts, and fly fishing equipment in the Yellowstone region. Layover nights (two or more nights at the same camp) are permitted at mid-canyon boat camps (Two Creek to Upper Parker), however, only one layover night is permitted during the high use season (May 15-July 15). With Over 35 Years of Outfitting River Outfitters Across The Globe – We Know River Gear! Smith River Flyfishing guides float trips on central Montana’s Smith River – this unforgettable 60-mile river journey is awesome fishing, sublime scenery and comfortable accommodations with excellent food, expert guides and a classic Montana experience. Adventure Overview. Fantastic recreational opportunities abound that include river rafting right in your own back yard! Typically, 14 members are allowed to each group and campsites are chosen the day of the launch (4 night maximum). No. Posts about rafting smith river written by montanaflygirl. Aside from these two exceptions, no dog or pet will be allowed on a Smith River float trip. Great Falls, MT 59405. Of the 118 miles of shoreline along the river, only 26 miles are public land. The camp sites are "bookdocking" sites and are craftily constructed out of small boulders. Montana's premier outdoor rental company. Posts about smith river montana written by montanaflygirl. Smith River Management Plan – To ensure that the resources are protected and the Smith River experience remains high, this plan directs the long range development and management of the river corridor. From rippling streams to calm lakes, Montana has opportunities for the recreational paddler or the serious enthusiast.