Water skiing, motorboating and non-motorized boating are popular pastimes at the park, which has 75 campsites in five areas around the reservoir, which is about 50 miles from Billings. The reservoir is a popular trout fishery and is stocked with 150,000 6-inch rainbow trout each year by the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. By fall, the trout average 12 inches long. Cooney also has several species of suckers, as well as walleye and black crappie. Ice fishing and snowmobiling, along with cross-country skiing and ice skating are among winter recreational activities at the park.
Winter camping is available for the hardy.
But be aware that ice or deep, drifting snow can cover roads in winter. Also, check ice conditions before venturing out onto the lake. Pay stations are at each park entrance. To reach Cooney, take Interstate 90 to Highway 212 and travel to the Boyd turnoff.