Mallard’s Rest Fishing Access site sits on the Yellowstone River 12 miles south of Livingston, MT in the heart of Paradise Valley. The site features a boat ramp, access to miles of Yellowstone River fishing, and a campground with 13 campsites. Mallard’s Rest is on the banks of the Yellowstone and the Absaroka Mountains to the east are spectacular.
2023 – Mallard’s Rest is Closed!!!
The historic Yellowstone River flood in mid-June, 2022 left the road to Mallards Rest unusable. For safety reasons, the campground, boat ramp, and all access lands are closed. This includes all access by foot or boat. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is committed to reopening the site and plan to construct a new access road. However, it seems likely the site will remain closed to vehicles for the 2023 season.
For current information contact:
Mark Filonczuk
mark.filonczuk@mt.gov
(406) 577-7894
| Mallard’s Rest Campground | |
|---|---|
| Season | Closed in 2023 |
| Number of sites | 13 campsites |
| Reservations | No |
| Amenities | Vault Toilets, Picnic tables, Fire rings |
| Accessible | Some sites and all latrines |
| Firewood | No |
| Attractions | Yellowstone River, Scenic Views |
| Nearest City | Livingston, MT – 12 miles |
Mallard’s Rest Campground
The campsites at Mallards Rest are spread through the access area. Some of the sites sit right on the river bank while others are back a bit. There is a walk-in site on the south end of the access that sits in the trees on the riverbank.
The campground has 13 sites with picnic tables and fire pis. There is no firewood! None for sale and none to gather. There are two vault toilets.
There is a nightly camping fee that must be paid on-site. Cash and check only – No Electronic Payment Options!
There are no reservations at Mallard’s Rest. Every site is first-come, first-served and the campground is usually full. Don’t plan to show up here to find an empty site unless you are early in the day. Even arriving early may not guarantee an available site.
Most of the campsites offer little privacy but some are more isolated than others. The site is located next to US 89 which has significant vehicle traffic at all hours. You should expect highway noise when camped here.
This campground is operated by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Yellowstone River Fishing
The Yellowstone River is one of the premier fly fishing streams in the lower 48. Both the river and the associated world-famous spring creeks attract anglers from across the globe. Mallards Rest sits right on the river in the middle of Paradise Valley. Many fishing float trips begin or end here. If you are interested in a guided fishing trip just inquire locally at one of the local fishing shops.
Besides fishing, the river is heavily used by recreational floaters looking to enjoy time on an amazing river. Rafts, kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft are often on the water near Mallards. Again, inquire locally for more information about floating.
Hiking Near Mallard’s Rest
While most campers are interested in the Yellowstone River, Mallards is also close to many great hiking trails. The Pine Creek Falls and Pine Creek Lake trail offers hiking for novices and experts. This is a great trail to experience the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness.
Here are some additional trails in the area
There is no fee for day use at Mallards Rest. However, there is a nightly camping fee that must be paid on site.
The Yellowstone River is one of the finest trout streams in the country and people come from around the world to fish here. As long as you have a license and obey all regulations you can fish at Mallards Rest.
Native Yellowstone cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish are common in the Yellowstone. There are also large numbers of wild brown trout and rainbow trout which were introduced in the past.