Summer events at Pictograph Cave State Park

BILLINGS – Pictograph Cave State Park, located just outside of Billings, is hosting multiple public events this summer. These events are free to attend, but regular state park fees will apply.

For more information on this state park, visit: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/pictograph-cave/ or call 406-254-7342.

‘Writing Montana’ workshop with Dave Caserio June 21

Dave Caserio, local writer and educator, is leading a writing workshop at Pictograph Cave State Park on Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Participants will use observations of the natural world and explorations of the historical, cultural, and geological background of the area to create works in any genre of writing. This is a recurring, seasonal workshop for both writers and non-writers. The outdoor workshop will include a brief tour of the state park, discussion of the writing process, independent exploration and writing time, and opportunity to share and discuss pieces.

Caserio has authored multiple books of poetry and has contributed to a variety of anthologies. He works locally in Billings and across the region with community outreach organizations.

The workshop will be outside. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and bring their own writing gear and camp chair. Space is limited. To reserve your space, please contact Pictograph Cave State Park at 406-254-7342.

Viewing the night sky with Yellowstone Valley Astronomy Association

Pictograph Cave State Park, in partnership with the Yellowstone Valley Astronomy Association (YVAA), is hosting three night sky viewing events at the park throughout the summer. The free astronomy events will be held Saturday, June 21, July 19, and Aug. 23. Each event will begin at 8:30 p.m. and conclude by midnight. 

YVAA club members will share their knowledge of the south-central Montana sky and provide telescopes and other viewing instruments to observe stars, planets and celestial bodies.

These events will be held in the park’s parking area. Broader access to the park will not be available during the events, including trails. Reservations are not required for these events. Participants should bring blankets or camp chairs for seating and flashlights.

Ranger-guided tours every Saturday

Pictograph Cave State Park will offer ranger-guided tours every Saturday from May 24 to Aug. 30. The walking tours will begin at 9:30 a.m. and last approximately one hour. Participation in the tours is free, but regular park fees will apply.  

Rangers will discuss park history, archeology, geology, and Native American occupation of the site during tours, which are less than one mile in length. Participants in the tour should meet just outside the visitor center.

Group size will be limited to 20 participants during each Saturday tour. To reserve a spot for any Saturday tour, call the park at 406-254-7342