How do I access General Custer?

General Custer is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at General Custer?

General Custer supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at General Custer?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit General Custer?

The best time to paddle at General Custer is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at General Custer?

Water conditions at General Custer include mild current.

Is General Custer good for beginners?

Yes, General Custer is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

a river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Joseph Hughes on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCamping

Best Time to Visit

Summer

General Custer

Hardin, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

General Custer is a public boat ramp on Bighorn River near Hardin, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

General Custer offers river paddling on Bighorn River in Montana. Located near Hardin.

Located in Montana, General Custer puts you on Bighorn River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and camping.

General Custer sits about 15 min from Hardin, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access General Custer?: General Custer is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at General Custer?: General Custer supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at General Custer?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit General Custer?: The best time to paddle at General Custer is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at General Custer?: Water conditions at General Custer include mild current.
Is General Custer good for beginners?: Yes, General Custer is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 45.9273, -107.5748