Lake Elmo State Park offers paddling on a 64-acre reservoir located within the city limits of Billings.

The man-made lake was originally constructed in 1906 as part of the Carey Land Act of 1894 to provide irrigation water for farmland, with water diverted from the Yellowstone River through 63 miles of gravity-fed canals.

**Access and Facilities**: The park features a boat launch with accompanying amenities including restrooms, showers, parking areas, picnic shelters, and a playground. A 1.

4-mile nature trail circles the lake, and Roger's Pier on the south shore provides additional lake access. The park maintains ADA accessibility features and offers an Action Trackchair for visitors with mobility limitations.

**Regulations**: Only non-motorized boating is permitted on the lake, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The park is open daily year-round from 5am to 10pm, though this is day-use only with no overnight camping allowed.

Alcohol is prohibited throughout the park. **Paddling Experience**: The lake's multiple access points help distribute usage, preventing overcrowding even during popular summer months.

The relatively calm water conditions make it suitable for various skill levels. Water quality is maintained as part of the reservoir system, and the lake is regularly stocked with fish during summer months.

**Seasonal Considerations**: While open year-round, the lake offers seasonal variety with summer activities dominating, though winter options like ice skating are available when conditions permit.

The urban location within Billings provides convenient access while maintaining a natural setting.

**Services**: Yellowstone R&R River Rentals operates at the boat ramp on weekends starting Memorial Day weekend, offering kayak and paddleboard rentals including single kayaks ($20/hour), tandem kayaks ($30/hour), and paddleboards ($15/hour).

The park elevation sits at 3,199 feet, and the total park encompasses 123 acres surrounding the water body.