Pelican Point FAS

For Montanans seeking a quintessential outdoor experience that perfectly blends accessible family fun with excellent fishing opportunities, Pelican Point FAS (Fishing Access Site) in Cascade, MT, is a local gem. Situated directly on the Missouri River, this site offers a delightful, no-frills camping experience that caters especially well to families with young children and avid anglers. It's a place where the simple pleasures of nature take center stage, allowing you to disconnect and enjoy the stunning landscapes that define our great state.

Pelican Point FAS stands out for its intimate atmosphere and direct access to the water, providing an ideal setting for those who appreciate a more rustic and peaceful outdoor adventure. Unlike larger, more developed campgrounds, Pelican Point offers a charming, laid-back vibe that truly lets you immerse yourself in the Montana wilderness, all while being surprisingly close to local conveniences. It's a testament to Montana's dedication to providing accessible public lands for all to enjoy, making it a perfect choice for your next family outing or fishing expedition.

Pelican Point FAS is conveniently located in Cascade, MT 59421, USA. This prime location places it right on the Missouri River, a legendary waterway known for its world-class fishing and scenic beauty. Cascade itself is a small, welcoming town situated in north-central Montana, offering a charming base for visitors.

The site's accessibility is a significant advantage for Montanans. It's just a short drive—approximately 6 miles south—from the town of Cascade, making it easy to resupply or grab forgotten items. For those coming from larger cities, Pelican Point FAS is conveniently located about 24 minutes from Great Falls and roughly 49 minutes from Helena, making it an excellent option for a day trip or a quick weekend getaway without extensive travel. Access to the site is straightforward, typically involving a direct drive-in, with facilities designed for ease of use. The presence of a boat launch also makes it accessible for those arriving by watercraft, offering a unique approach to this tranquil spot. Its close proximity to town while still feeling like a natural escape is a balance that many local campers appreciate, allowing for both convenience and immersion in nature.

Pelican Point FAS, as a Montana Fishing Access Site, provides essential services geared towards facilitating outdoor recreation, particularly camping and water-based activities. While it maintains a "no frills" character, it offers key amenities that ensure a comfortable and functional stay.

• Designated Campsites: The site offers a limited number of designated campsites, providing specific areas for campers to set up tents or park RVs. These sites are designed to be relatively spacious, accommodating multiple vehicles in each spot.

• Picnic Tables: Each designated campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other camp activities.

• Fire Pits/Rings: Campers will find fire pits or rings at each site, allowing for safe campfires (subject to current fire restrictions) for warmth, cooking, and ambiance.

• Vault Toilets: The site provides vault toilets (also known as pit toilets) for basic sanitation needs. These are consistently described as clean and well-maintained by visitors, earning praise for their "campground quality."

• Boat Launch: A functional boat launch ramp is available, providing direct access to the Missouri River for fishing boats, kayaks, and other watercraft. This is a key amenity for anglers and paddlers.

• Fishing Access: As a Fishing Access Site, it offers direct and easy access to the Missouri River for fishing. The reviews highlight its exceptional fishing opportunities, particularly for perch, even for young anglers.

• Water Access for Recreation: Beyond boating and fishing, the site provides several trails down to the water, suitable for swimming, wading, or launching smaller watercraft like kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

• Stay Limit: Camping is permitted with a 14-day stay limit, allowing for extended stays for those looking to fully explore the area.

• No Hookups: It's important for campers to note that Pelican Point FAS does not provide electrical, water, or sewer hookups. It's a primitive camping experience, requiring self-sufficiency.

• No Trash Service: Campers are expected to pack out all their trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to maintain the site's cleanliness and natural beauty.

Pelican Point FAS boasts several standout features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a prime outdoor destination in Montana.

• Exceptional Fishing for Kids: A significant highlight is its reputation as a "perfect little area for young kids" when it comes to fishing. Reviews rave about the abundance of perch, with one noting a child and another angler caught "over 60 perch using just worms" in two hours. This makes it an ideal spot to introduce children to the joys of angling.

• Shallow, Kid-Friendly Water for Kayaking: The water near the shore is noted for being shallow, "only 26" deep halfway out," making it "super fun" and safe for young kayakers or those new to paddling. This shallow depth provides a comfortable environment for water play and learning.

• Direct Missouri River Access: Its location directly on the Missouri River provides unparalleled access for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of one of Montana's most iconic waterways. The integrated boat launch is a major convenience for powerboaters and paddlers alike.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere (mostly): Despite having a boat launch, many visitors find the campground "quiet and peaceful," making it a great spot for relaxation and enjoying nature, especially away from the immediate boat launch area.

• Beautiful Views: Campers consistently rave about the "beautiful views" of the Missouri River and the surrounding landscapes, offering a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor activity.

• Mature Cottonwood Trees: The presence of "large cottonwood trees" provides valuable shade over many of the sites, offering respite from the Montana sun and contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.

• Rustic, No-Frills Experience: For those who appreciate simplicity and self-reliance, the "no frills but everything you need" approach is a highlight. It emphasizes direct engagement with nature over extensive amenities, embodying a true camping spirit.

• Proximity to Town: Being "close to town" (Cascade) offers the best of both worlds – a natural escape with convenient access to supplies and services if needed.

• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly detailed, Fishing Access Sites are generally pet-friendly, with many campers bringing their dogs to enjoy the water access and open spaces, as hinted at in reviews.

As a Montana Fishing Access Site (FAS) managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), Pelican Point FAS does not typically have a direct phone number for the site itself. However, you can obtain information through the regional FWP office.

Address: Cascade, MT 59421, USA (This is the general location of the site.)

For inquiries about Pelican Point FAS, including current conditions, regulations, and any specific concerns, it's best to contact the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 4 office (Great Falls) or consult their official website for Fishing Access Sites.

Montana FWP Region 4 Office Phone: (406) 454-5840

This phone number should connect you with the appropriate department or individual who can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Pelican Point FAS. Always check FWP's official online resources for current fire restrictions, stay limits, and other important notices before planning your trip.

For Montanans, Pelican Point FAS in Cascade is an exceptionally suitable and appealing outdoor destination, offering a perfect blend of accessibility, family-friendly activities, and authentic Montana charm. Its location directly on the Missouri River, just a short drive from Great Falls and Helena, means locals can easily escape for a day of fishing or a weekend camping trip without extensive travel, maximizing their time in nature.

The site's particular suitability for families with young children is a major draw. The shallow, calm waters near the shore are ideal for safe kayaking and splashing, allowing kids to confidently enjoy the water. The phenomenal perch fishing, as highlighted by delighted parents, provides immediate gratification and an exciting introduction to angling, creating memorable experiences for the younger generation.

While Pelican Point FAS offers a "no frills" experience, this is precisely its appeal for many Montanans who value simplicity and self-reliance in their outdoor pursuits. The provided picnic tables, fire pits, and well-maintained vault toilets offer essential comforts without detracting from the natural setting. Its designation as a Fishing Access Site ensures robust public access to the Missouri River for boating, paddleboarding, and world-class fishing, activities deeply ingrained in the Montana lifestyle. The quiet atmosphere and beautiful views contribute to a truly relaxing and rejuvenating escape from daily life. For locals seeking an accessible, affordable, and authentic Montana camping and fishing experience that caters to all ages, Pelican Point FAS stands out as a genuine Big Sky Country treasure.

Pelican Point FAS

Cascade, MT 59421, USA