There’s nothing quite like floating down a Montana river with your family. Calm waters, scenic views, campfires, and laughter—it’s a memory-maker for sure. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to spend a few days outside, an overnight float trip on the Smith River or the Madison River is a great way to unplug and enjoy nature together. At Hatch Adventures, we’ve seen firsthand how these river trips bring people closer. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned floater, we’re here to help you plan a safe, fun, and relaxing family getaway.
The Smith River is one of Montana’s most sought-after float trips. It’s a permit-only river, which means it stays quiet and uncrowded. The float is about 59 miles long, typically taking 4 to 5 days. You’ll float between tall limestone cliffs, open meadows, and forested banks. It’s full of beauty and peace, and plenty of spots to fish, hike, or just relax. One thing to keep in mind: permits are awarded through a lottery system each spring, so you’ll want to plan ahead. If you get lucky and land a permit, this is a trip your family will never forget.
If you’re looking for something easier to access and more flexible, the Madison River is a top pick. It’s not permit-based, and you can choose between day floats or short overnight trips. The Lower Madison, near Ennis and Three Forks, is great for floating with kids—it has mellow waters, shady campsites, and great swimming holes. While the Madison gets more visitors than the Smith, there are still plenty of peaceful stretches, especially if you float during the week or early in the morning.
The best time for a family float trip in Montana is late spring through early fall. That’s usually May to September, depending on water levels. July and August are the most popular because the weather is warm and the water levels are steady. Always check river conditions and weather forecasts before you head out.
Planning for an overnight river trip means thinking ahead. Here’s a basic list to get you started:
Life jackets for everyone (they’re required and a must for safety)
Sun protection – sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
Dry bags for clothes, food, and electronics
Camping gear – tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads
Food and water – plan meals for each day and bring extra snacks
Coolers to keep things fresh (frozen water bottles help)
Portable toilet or waste bags (required on the Smith)
First-aid kit and bug spray
Fishing gear if you plan to cast a few lines
With kids on board, bring a few extras like:
A travel game or card deck
Binoculars for spotting eagles or deer
A journal or sketchbook to remember the trip
On the Smith River, designated campsites are assigned as part of your permit. You’ll get a map that shows your assigned spots. These are simple, natural areas with no hookups, no crowds. Just you and the wild. On the Madison River, camping is more flexible. Some sites are on public land and are first-come, first-served. Others are private and may require a reservation. We always recommend scouting your take-out and camp options in advance or reaching out to us for tips.
Float shorter sections if it’s your first time. You don’t need to float 50 miles to have fun. Even one night out can be an adventure.
Teach kids to paddle early. Give them a small task like helping steer or spotting rocks. It keeps them involved.
Stay organized. Use bins or labeled bags so you can find things quickly at camp.
Leave no trace. Pack out everything you bring and respect the river. Teach your kids why this matters.
Booking a raft is easy. Just head over to our website here, choose your dates, and pick the raft that fits your needs. If you’re not sure what size or style is best, give us a call or send us an email. We’re happy to walk you through your options and make sure you’re set up for a safe, fun trip. We also offer add-ons like dry bags, coolers, and full camp kits if you want an all-in-one package.
If you’re flying into Bozeman or starting your trip nearby, we make it easy to get on the water. At Hatch Adventures, our rental trucks are perfect for hauling gear and reaching remote put-ins or take-outs. We also offer camping kits that include rooftop tents, coolers, camp kitchens, and more, so you can focus on the fun, not the packing. Not sure where to start? Shoot us an email, and we’ll help you figure out the right river, dates, and gear setup for your family.
There’s something magical about spending a few days floating with the people you love. You’ll tell stories by the fire, fall asleep under the stars, and wake up to the sound of water moving past your tent. Whether it’s the wild and remote Smith or the friendly, fun Madison, an overnight float trip is one of the best ways to explore Montana. And with the right plan and a little help from Hatch Adventures, you’ll be ready to make some unforgettable memories.
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