Changes proposed for Thompson Falls State Park

Montana State Parks (MSP) is proposing a change to the group site and group day use areas at Thompson Falls State Park.

The proposal would relocate an existing group campsite and replace two failing picnic pavilions. The existing group campsite would be relocated from the upper bench in the northeast area of the park to the lower bench, which is more centrally located and closer to the river. The existing group campsite would be repurposed as a group day use site that would be available to the public to facilitate large events such as weddings and picnics. Both pavilions would provide water and electrical service. The project will also add additional parking spaces for upper group day-use vehicles.

The current group site is located near Blue Slide Road in an area that is not level and provides inadequate space for the four- trailer capacity of the group site, according to MSP. The existing group site is underutilized due to these flaws, as well as its distance from the Clark Fork River. By moving the campsites closer to the river, and installing a covered picnic pavilion, MSP anticipates higher utilization of the site. The existing picnic pavilions are deteriorated beyond repair, as are the existing picnic table and free-standing charcoal grill that are associated with this site. These amenities would also be replaced.

MSP is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Thompson Falls State Park proposal. To view a full copy of the environmental assessment visit stateparks.mt.gov and click “Public Notices.”

The public comment period will be open for 30 days and comments will be accepted through 5 p.m. Saturday, September 29. The public is invited to comment online at stateparks.mt.gov and click “submit comments” or by email to [email protected].

The public may also send written comments to: Thompson Falls State Park Group Site Project, Montana State Parks, 490 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell, MT 59901.

For questions about the draft EA and/or the public comment process, contact Dave Bennetts, Park Manager, Thompson Falls State Park (406) 751-4590 or [email protected].

For more information, visit stateparks.mt.gov.