The roads leading to Horsethief Recreation Area are rugged yet well maintained, as is often the case with Montana’s beautiful and more primitive outdoor settings. But these settings are the best for stargazing, because the farther you are from artificial lights, the brighter the wild ones above you will shine.

With two access points (one in the north perfect for stargazing and one in the south perfect for hiking, rockhounding, and more), this vast landscape in the heart of the Bull Mountains is chock-full of outdoor recreation opportunities, so find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and let the fun begin! Spend your day hiking, biking, or horseback riding through the rolling hills and pine trees. Or hop on your ATV to explore the beautiful scenery and observe the wildlife that resides within the area. Be sure to check out the nearby town of Roundup for fun events, great restaurants and fascinating history of the area. Always recreate responsibly, as it is the visitor’s job to protect and preserve this truly wild land.  

Note that there are no garbage bins; this is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out kind of place!

During the Day

• The charming town of Roundup will provide you with great eateries and fun events
• Fish for bass and catfish in the Musselshell River
• Stop by the Musselshell Valley Historical Museum
• Hit a few rounds at the Pine Ridge Golf Course

Photo: Morgan Belveal

Getting There

From Roundup, there are two primary ways to enter the Horsethief Recreation Area, and any local will kindly tell you the best way to go about it. Use the north access 6.5 miles west on Golf Course Road for stargazing on top of the rims. The south entry can be accessed by traveling 5 miles northwest on Horsethief Creek Road (1 mile south of Roundup on HWY 87). Both roads are well maintained and easy to travel but once you turn into the recreation area, rugged is the name of the game. Much of the area is accessed only via two track ATV roads. Kick on 4WD and drive in—or lace up your hiking boots, park at the kiosk and wander in on foot. View the map for more information, or contact the Billings BLM Field Office with any questions.