Document Type

Report

Publication Date

6-2026

Disciplines

Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics

Abstract

This study examines recreation use, visitor behavior, and infrastructure demands at Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Montana, using a combination of visitor surveys, automated counts, and systematic observations conducted between February and October of 2025. Results indicate that Canyon Ferry functions primarily as a high-frequency, locally driven recreation system characterized by repeat visitation, small travel groups, and short-duration trips. Use is highly concentrated at a limited number of sites and during predictable peak periods, creating localized infrastructure pressures despite relatively stable overall visitation levels. Findings show that parking areas and campgrounds experience more consistent capacity constraints than boat ramps, and that perceptions of crowding are driven more by peak-time clustering and site conditions than by overall use levels. Respondents report high satisfaction and demonstrate limited behavioral displacement, even during periods of increased use. Overall, management challenges at Canyon Ferry are driven less by growth in visitation and more by the spatial and temporal concentration of use, highlighting the importance of targeted, site-specific management strategies to address infrastructure demand and maintain visitor experience.

Keywords

Canyon Ferry, Reservoir Recreation

Rights

© 2026 ITRR

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