Clark Canyon Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Clark Canyon Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Clark Canyon Reservoir today is 11.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 15.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 16.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 16.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 16.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 16.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 16.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 15.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 13.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 19.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| JUL 2 | 19.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| JUL 3 | 19.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUL 4 | 19.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUL 5 | 19.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| JUL 6 | 19.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 19.0°C | 14.4°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| November | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Clark Canyon Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Clark Canyon Reservoir: Weather Forecast
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July 5
Location & Local Information
Clark Canyon Reservoir is a high-elevation impoundment in southwestern Montana, so its water stays relatively cool for much of the year. In spring (April–May) surface temperatures commonly range from about 35–55°F (2–13°C) as snowmelt and cooler air dominate. By summer (June–August) the surface often warms to roughly 60–70°F (15–21°C), and on the warmest, calmest afternoons can occasionally reach the low 70s°F (22–23°C). In early fall (September–October) temperatures typically fall back into the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C) range, while winter conditions bring near-freezing water and frequent ice cover around 32°F (0°C), especially in shallow bays.
Swimming is permitted in the reservoir because it is a publicly managed recreation area with access points and shoreline open for use, but it is not supervised with lifeguards and conditions can be hazardous. Cold-water shock and rapid heat loss are real risks even in summer where surface warmth masks colder depths, and fluctuating reservoir levels, boat traffic, submerged structures and occasional strong currents near the dam make caution important. If you choose to swim, do so from established access sites, be aware of water temperature and weather, never swim alone, and consider a wetsuit or flotation device in cooler conditions.