News Release Archive

Reclamation reminds public on rules for camping and recreating on public lands

Media Contact: Jack Conner, 406-247-7300, jconner@usbr.gov

For Release: May 21, 2019

VFW CampgroundBILLINGS, Montana – With the 2019 recreation season upon us, the Bureau of Reclamation would like to remind the public recreating on public lands administered by Reclamation, of rules for camping and boating at Tiber, Fresno, and Nelson Reservoirs. Reclamation asks the public to minimize impacts to natural resources and allow fellow visitors the same recreation experience by following these basic rules.

Most federally administered lands enforce a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period for any camping.

Visitors to Reclamation lands must ensure that picnic and camp sites are free of trash and litter and be respectful of future visitors to the area by keeping a clean camp site

Visitors are also required to fully extinguish camp fires using a shovel and enough water to ensure all burning fuels are completely out. Check with your local land management office for existing fire restrictions before your camping trip.

Reclamation does not currently have any campgrounds that can be reserved within lands encompassing Tiber, Fresno, or Nelson Reservoirs. All campsites are on a first come, first served basis. Visitors may not attempt to reserve a campsite by leaving personal property at the site for any duration. Reclamation considers personal property left for more than a 24-hour period to be abandoned and can be removed or impounded.

Boaters coming to Tiber, Fresno, and Nelson Reservoirs are also reminded to prevent the infestation of aquatic invasive species (Quagga and Zebra mussels) by following the Clean, Drain, Dry guidelines before and after putting motorized and non-motorized watercraft to use.

Reclamation managers encourage the visiting public to enjoy their public lands and provide future visitors with the same quality outdoor experience.

For further questions regarding camping or recreating on Tiber, Fresno, and Nelson Reservoirs, please contact the Marias/Milk Rivers Division field office at (406) 759-7055, or visit Reclamation’s website at https://www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

Montana Area Office Homepage

Canyon Ferry Reservoir Homepage