The Yellowstone Just Scored a New Float-In Fortress (And You’re Invited)

If your idea of a perfect weekend involves a drift boat, a fly rod, and absolutely zero cell service, the universe just handed you a massive win.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) officially accepted the donation of a sprawling, 82-acre island complex right in the sweet spot of the upper Yellowstone River. Dubbed the Siskin Island Fishing Access Site, this hidden gem is tucked about 13 miles south of Livingston, sitting pretty between the Mallards Rest and Pine Creek access points.

The best part is that you can’t just roll up in a Subaru. This is a strict “float-in” paradise.

Facilitated by the Trust for Public Land, this donation transforms a chunk of private real estate into a public sanctuary. The island is essentially a checklist of Montana’s best natural features: mature cottonwood forests, marshy wetlands, rocky shorelines, and wide-open meadows.

But it’s not just a playground for humans. The island’s side channels act as a premium nursery for the river’s famous trout population. According to FWP, “The donation of this site to FWP protects critical river and riparian habitat, expands lawful public access and reflects strong community partnership and public input.”

Governor Greg Gianforte and FWP Director Christy Clark even took a boat tour of the property recently to officially welcome it to Montana’s public land portfolio.

Because FWP plans to “manage the site for habitat conservation and public access,” you can’t just throw a lawless rave on the banks. To keep the ecosystem pristine, a few ground rules are locking into place:

• Day Use: Welcomed and encouraged. Pull up your raft, stretch your legs, and cast a line.
• Float-in Camping: Allowed, but keep your spontaneous side in check—it’s restricted to a designated campsite and will be by reservation only.
• Hunting: Permitted, but subject to specific weapons restrictions.

Planning a trip? Hold your horses (or your oars) just a bit longer. FWP is currently finalizing the official site rules and setting up the online campsite reservation portal. The full details are expected to drop on the FWP website in the coming weeks.

So, clean up your dry bags and start prepping your rigs. The Yellowstone River just got a little bit wilder, and it’s got your name written all over it.

^{Feature photo via Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks}