Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground

**Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground: Your Gateway to Central Montana's Natural Beauty**

For those who call Big Sky Country home—or anyone seeking the authentic Montana outdoor experience—Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground offers a refreshing and accessible escape. Nestled along the shores of the expansive Deadman's Basin Reservoir, this location provides the quintessential Montana setting: wide-open skies, serene water, and the distant peaks of the Crazy and Castle Mountains creating a stunning backdrop. As a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Fishing Access Site (FAS), it’s specifically designed to connect local users with the state's incredible water resources for recreation. This spot is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a tranquil, no-frills destination perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the simple, profound pleasures of the Montana plains and waters.

The environment here is characterized by the vast, rolling prairie lands typical of Central Montana, providing an immense sense of scale and peace. It operates on a **first-come, first-served** basis, embracing the spontaneous, adventurous spirit that defines Montana life. Visitors appreciate the straightforward, relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to camp right near the water's edge, creating unforgettable mornings with sunrises over the reservoir. Whether you're a seasoned local angler, a family looking for a weekend picnic spot, or a traveler passing through the heart of the state, Carl's Cove at Deadman's Basin offers an easily reachable slice of Montana wilderness.

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**Location and Accessibility**

Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground is strategically situated in Central Montana, providing convenient access for residents across the region. While the official address points to **Montana 59074, USA**, the reservoir itself is located off U.S. Highway 12, roughly midway between the small towns of Harlowton and Ryegate. Specifically, you can find the general area of Deadman's Basin Reservoir approximately 20 miles east of Harlowton or about 9 miles west of Ryegate.

Access to the Carl's Cove area within the Deadman's Basin FAS is typically straightforward, though visitors should anticipate short sections of well-maintained gravel or dirt road leading into the campground loops. Reviewers have noted that even larger RVs and camper vans generally have no issues navigating the access roads. Its proximity to a major highway makes it an excellent choice for a stopover or a primary destination for a multi-day trip. The entire Deadman's Basin FAS covers a significant area—over 617 acres—meaning there are multiple points of interest, with Carl's Cove being one of the designated camping areas known for its easy access to the reservoir. The elevation of the site is approximately 4,245 feet, typical of this scenic prairie region.

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**Services Offered**

As a Montana FWP Fishing Access Site, the focus at Deadman's Basin is on providing essential amenities to support water-based recreation and rustic camping. This is a place for campers who appreciate nature's simple grandeur over glamping luxuries. The available facilities ensure a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience.

The services you can expect at Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground include:

• Vault/Pit Toilets: Clean, well-maintained non-flush restrooms are available throughout the camping area.
• Boat Launch: An accessible ramp for launching watercraft onto Deadman's Basin Reservoir, catering to anglers and recreational boaters.
• Campsites: Designated camping spots suitable for both **RV Camping** (including pull-through sites for ease of maneuvering) and **Tent Camping**.
• Picnic Tables: Provided at most campsites and in day-use areas.
• Grills/Fire Rings: Available for campfires and cooking, perfect for an evening cookout under the Montana sky.
• Trash Cans: Bear-resistant trash disposal is provided seasonally (typically May 1 - September 30) for visitor convenience.
• Group Shelters: Available at the general Deadman's Basin FAS, though availability in Carl's Cove specifically may vary.
• Pets Allowed: Leashed pets are welcome, allowing the whole family to enjoy the trip.
• Water Access: Non-potable water access is generally available, but **campers must bring their own drinking water**, as there are typically no potable water facilities.

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**Features / Highlights**

Carl's Cove at Deadman's Basin is a treasure trove of outdoor activity and natural beauty, making it a standout choice for local recreation. The reservoir itself is the main draw, but the surrounding landscape offers even more.

Key features and highlights of this Montana destination include:

• **Outstanding Fishing Opportunities:** The Deadman's Basin Reservoir is renowned in Central Montana for its cold-water fishery. Anglers consistently target **Rainbow Trout**, **Kokanee Salmon**, and the elusive **Tiger Muskie**. The site fee structure even rewards Montana fishing license holders with discounted camping rates.
• **Water-Based Recreation:** Beyond fishing, the vast reservoir is ideal for a host of activities, including **Boating**, **Water Skiing**, **Swimming** (especially near the beach area), and **Wind Surfing** on breezy days.
• **Tranquil Reservoir Views:** Many campsites offer direct, unobstructed views of the water, providing a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often comment on the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the calm lake.
• **Winter Activities:** Unlike many seasonal sites, Deadman's Basin remains open year-round, offering great **Ice Fishing** and other winter sports once the water freezes over.
• **Stargazing:** Due to the low light pollution in this part of Montana, the campground is a fantastic spot for viewing the **night sky**, an unforgettable experience for city dwellers and locals alike.
• **Wildlife Viewing:** The area is home to various local wildlife and bird species, providing excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
• **Proximity to Local Towns:** The campground is only a short, scenic drive from nearby Harlowton, which offers additional conveniences, a golf course, and the Victor Heritage Museum.

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**Contact Information**

For up-to-date information on conditions, fees, and general inquiries regarding the Deadman's Basin Fishing Access Site (which includes Carl's Cove Campground), it is best to contact the managing agency, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), Region 5.

Primary Contact Details (Deadman's Basin FAS):

• Address (General Area): Montana 59074, USA (Near Ryegate/Harlowton)
• FWP Region 5 Office Phone: (406) 247-2940
• Alternative Contact for FWP: (406) 444-2535 (FWP Main Line)

Note: Carl's Cove Campground is part of the Deadman's Basin FAS. Since camping is primarily first-come, first-served, direct reservations are not possible. Always check current FWP regulations and conditions before your visit.

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**What is Worth Choosing: The Carl's Cove Advantage**

Choosing Deadman's Basin - Carl's Cove Campground is choosing an authentic, understated Montana outdoor experience with superb recreational value. It is particularly worth choosing for three key reasons: **Access to Water Recreation**, **Value and Simplicity**, and its **Peaceful, Scenic Location**.

The core value proposition is the unparalleled access to the Deadman's Basin Reservoir. Unlike more crowded campgrounds, Carl's Cove offers designated spots often right along the shoreline, providing an easy path to launch a boat, cast a line, or simply enjoy the calming effect of the water. For the serious angler, the excellent trout and salmon stocking program is a massive draw. For families, the ability to combine camping with swimming and boating activities makes it a perfect summer destination.

Furthermore, the campground offers great value. The fees are reasonable (especially discounted for Montana fishing license holders and senior residents), making it an affordable local getaway. While the amenities are rustic—vault toilets, no potable water, no hookups—this is precisely what appeals to those seeking a break from overdeveloped resort campgrounds. The environment forces you to slow down, disconnect from electric gadgets, and reconnect with nature. As one previous guest noted, despite a brief, less-than-ideal interaction with nature (the flies), the overall feeling of being by the water in a quiet setting is what truly defines the experience. The quiet solitude is a consistent theme, with campers often being the only ones in their loop during off-peak times.

In a state famous for its majestic mountains, Carl's Cove reminds us of the unique beauty of the plains—a place where the sky feels bigger, the stars brighter, and the sense of freedom more profound. It's a truly solid choice for a peaceful, water-focused retreat in Central Montana.

The 14-day stay limit ensures that this beautiful resource remains accessible to the local community throughout the season. Remember to pack all necessary supplies, especially drinking water, and prepare to be fully immersed in the unpretentious beauty of Big Sky Country.

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