Tips for Floating the Yellowstone River Near Billings

Summer is Finally Heating Up - Time to Hit the Yellowstone River

Summer finally feels like it's arrived in Billings. When it gets hot, a favorite place to cool off is the Yellowstone River—and one of the most popular ways to enjoy it is with a relaxing (or rowdy) float.

Now that spring runoff has subsided and water levels are relatively normal, it’s a great time to get on the river.  But remember to play it safe. Every year, the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office responds to multiple river rescues.

While fatalities are thankfully rare, near-drownings and panicked calls for help happen more than you'd think. Their crews are highly trained and often assist in neighboring counties.

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Don’t Be a Rookie Risk-Taker

Maybe you’ve got the kids for the weekend and want to give them a taste of Montana river fun. Or maybe you're new to the area and itching to try your first float. Whether you're a first-timer or a self-proclaimed river rat, the YCSO has a few reminders that could save your life—or at least your afternoon.

They put it plainly:

"Lightweight tubes/floats with no life jackets is a recipe for disaster."

Cheap pool toys aren’t built for rivers.

That giant flamingo floatie might look great on Instagram, but it’ll be shredded by the first submerged branch you hit. Opt for something more durable, like actual river tubes, kayaks, or rafts—and always wear a life jacket.

Some Quick River Wisdom

• River channels change. The Yellowstone moves around every year. Sandbars come and go. What was an easy float last summer might have a log jam this year.
• Know your route. Short trips like Laurel to Duck Creek take about 2 hours in a kayak. A longer float like Sportsman’s Park to Lockwood Bridge? Pack a lunch and plan for the day.
• Alcohol + rivers = sketchy. A cold one is fine, but don’t get wrecked. And make sure you’ve got a sober ride waiting at your take-out spot.
• Hydrate or suffer. 95 degrees in the sun will sneak up on you. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
• Don’t forget the basics:
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • A dry bag for your phone and keys
  • Water shoes (flip-flops are awful at the river)
• Don’t trash Montana. Seriously. Nobody wants to see beer cans and diapers in the river. Pack it in, pack it out.

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Where to Float

There are about 10 public fishing access sites along the Yellowstone between Park City and Worden. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has a handy interactive map to plan your route. When in doubt, ask a local.

Have fun and stay safe. I’d much rather write about how much fun you're having than another heartbreaking river tragedy that could’ve been prevented.