Can you swim here today?
Wales Creek Reservoir
Montana · Reservoir
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 23, 2026, the water temperature at Wales Creek Reservoir is 51°F (11°C), measured by USGS gauge 12338300, 5.3 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 51°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 51°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 12338300, as of Aug 23, 10:00 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 195 ft³/s over 27 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 23, 10:00 AM gauge-local time
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 195 ft³/s over 27 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Montana yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge NF Blackfoot R ab Dry Gulch nr Ovando MT (5.3 mi away), as of Aug 23, 10:00 AM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.