Southwest Montana News

Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) sent a letter to Charles F. Sams III, Director of the National Park Service, addressing constituents' concerns about the continued closure of the Black Canyon Campground at the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. The campground has been closed for nearly two years due to natural bear activity.

Rep. Rosendale emphasized that the closure is unnecessary, noting that bear boxes—designed to prevent bears from accessing food and supplies—have been in place for years. He argued that these measures provide a proven method of protecting both campers and wildlife. Furthermore, he suggested that keeping the campground closed while leaving surrounding areas open could lead to an increased risk of bear encounters.

“The continued closure of the Black Canyon Campground is an insult to the people of Montana and this country, who cannot use this area for camping due to an arbitrary decision by the National Park Service,” said Rep. Rosendale. “I request the National Park Service to immediately address the situation by outlining a plan to reopen the Black Canyon Campground at the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.”