Tribal Recreation Permits: Everything You Need to Know
From vast lakes and rivers to rolling prairies, Indigenous lands across Montana hold significance that goes far beyond their natural beauty. Enjoying tribal lands is a rewarding pursuit but requires some planning ahead of time. Each of the state’s seven reservations has its own rules and regulations regarding recreation permits for non-members. Here are our tips for obtaining the necessary documentation before recreating on tribal lands, but the most up-to-date information will come from the tribes directly.
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Blackfeet Indian Reservation
Just east of Glacier National Park lies the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. In order to recreate on Blackfeet lands, general recreation and activity-specific permits are required and can be purchased through their online licensing program, in person at the Fish and Wildlife Headquarters in Browning, and at various local gas stations and campsites.
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Flathead Indian Reservation
Home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes is the Flathead Indian Reservation. General conservation licenses are available to non-members, and they can be purchased through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Online Licensing Service and at select local businesses throughout the reservation. Depending on the type of recreation you’re hoping to do — fishing, camping, bird hunting, boating — you may require additional licensure, which can also be purchased online. Find more information on CSKT recreation guidelines on their website.
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Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation
In the southeastern region of Montana is the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. Contact the tribal office directly to obtain any recreation permits required for your visit.
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Rocky Boy’s Reservation
Located near Havre in north-central Montana is the Rocky Boy’s Reservation, home to the Chippewa Cree Tribe. Permits can only be purchased in person at the tribal offices and the Natural Resources Department. One permit covers all types of recreation, so no specialized licenses are required.
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Fort Peck Reservation
The Fort Peck Reservation is the homeland of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes. Tribal licenses and permits can be requested and purchased online by creating a Native American Game & Fish Applications account. Individual permits are required depending on your type of recreation. For official guidelines, visit the Fort Peck Fish & Game Department website.
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Crow Reservation
Serving as the headquarters of the Crow Tribe is the Crow Reservation. To recreate on Crow land, a permit must be purchased in person from the Fish and Game Commission office. Separate permits are required depending on the types of recreation you plan to do. Tribal permits are not required for Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.
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Fort Belknap Indian Reservation
The Fort Belknap Indian Reservation is located in north-central Montana and is the homeland of the Assiniboine and Gros Ventre tribes. Here, recreation permits can be purchased in person at the tribal headquarters, and one permit provides access to all forms of recreation.
Respectful Recreation in Indian Country
Even with the proper permits, note that some areas of reservations may be open only to residents or members of the tribe. Once you're on location, be sure to respect any posted signs and local law enforcement. Visit our Indian Country hub for more information about the tribes of Montana, and tips on recreating responsibly.
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