
Montana’s literary scene punches above its weight. From small presses that champion regional voices to hybrid publishers and experienced ghostwriting teams, the Treasure State supports a diverse ecosystem for authors. Whether you’re an emerging novelist, a nonfiction writer with a regional focus, or someone looking for high-quality editing and production, Montana offers presses that combine local knowledge with professional publishing services. This roundup lists 53 book publishing companies and related services operating in or closely associated with Montana in 2025.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting provides full-service writing and publishing support for authors seeking professional help to realize book-length projects. They work across genres, offering experienced ghostwriters who collaborate closely with clients to retain the author’s voice.
- Full manuscript ghostwriting and book coaching.
- Editing, packaging, and guidance through self-publishing and traditional submission.
2. Badlands Press
A small regional press that prioritizes stories rooted in the American West, Badlands Press focuses on literary fiction and memoirs with a sense of place.
- Emphasis on editorial development and author collaboration.
- Small print runs and thoughtful book design.
3. Big Sky Books Collective
A cooperative of Montana-based writers and editors, Big Sky Books Collective supports indie publishing and local author promotion.
- Workshops, collaborative editing, and joint marketing efforts.
- Distribution support tailored to regional bookstores and events.
4. Bitterroot House Publishing
Bitterroot House focuses on nonfiction and regional history, producing well-researched local-interest titles and narrative nonfiction.
- Strong relationships with historical societies and local libraries.
- Professional fact-checking and index creation.
5. Black Pine Press
Black Pine Press champions emerging poets and short-form prose, with attention to careful typesetting and poetry-friendly layouts.
- Annual poetry competition and limited-edition runs.
- Emphasis on cover art and tactile bookmaking.
6. Blue Heron Publishing
A trade-oriented small press, Blue Heron publishes literary fiction and narrative nonfiction with national appeal while keeping a Montana sensibility.
- Professional editorial and design services.
- Selective acquisitions with author development.
7. Coyote Trail Press
Coyote Trail Press specializes in outdoor adventure writing, environmental nonfiction, and guidebooks relevant to Montana’s landscape.
- Field-experienced editors who understand outdoor genres.
- Practical, map-friendly interior design for guidebooks.
8. Crown & Prairie Press
Crown & Prairie focuses on children’s literature and young adult fiction, often featuring stories set in rural or small-town contexts.
- Illustrations and picture-book production capabilities.
- Outreach programs for schools and libraries.
9. Dusty Road Publishing
An independent press that highlights memoir, biography, and regional storytelling with a hands-on editorial approach.
- Personalized author services including developmental edits.
- Local publicity and book event coordination.
10. Elk Ridge Editions
Elk Ridge Editions is known for producing high-quality hardcover editions of literary works and collectible local-interest titles.
- Careful attention to cloth bindings and special finishes.
- Collector-friendly limited editions.
11. Evergreen Mountain Press
A boutique publisher with an emphasis on sustainable production practices and eco-conscious book manufacturing.
- Uses recycled papers and environmentally aware print partners.
- Publishes environmental essays and conservation-focused works.
12. Flathead Lake Books
Based near one of Montana’s signature lakes, this press concentrates on regional nonfiction, travelogues, and local art books.
- Strong photography and art book production.
- Partnerships with local galleries and tourism boards.
13. Frontier Folio Press
Frontier Folio Press offers hybrid publishing services, blending traditional editorial standards with flexible publishing models for authors.
- Transparent fee structures and optional services.
- Coaching for long-term author career development.
14. Glacier Peaks Publishing
Glacier Peaks Publishing is a small but respected regional publisher specializing in titles that highlight the beauty, culture, and history of Glacier National Park and its surrounding areas.
- Strong focus on travel and outdoor adventure guides.
- Works with photographers to produce visually striking editions.
15. Gold Creek Press
Gold Creek Press primarily publishes fiction with a focus on family sagas, romance, and stories rooted in small-town life.
- Encourages submissions from first-time authors.
- Balances print and digital publishing formats.
16. Great Divide Publishing
This press emphasizes nonfiction with themes of environmentalism, conservation, and social history within Montana and the broader Rocky Mountain region.
- Works closely with academic contributors.
- Produces accessible, well-researched books for general readers.
17. Grizzly Bear Press
Grizzly Bear Press focuses on children’s titles, producing illustrated picture books that often feature Montana wildlife and outdoor themes.
- Supports local illustrators and emerging authors.
- Titles frequently used in schools and nature education programs.
18. High Plains Publishing
Dedicated to rural voices, High Plains Publishing offers novels, short stories, and poetry reflecting the challenges and triumphs of life on the plains.
- Celebrates authentic rural storytelling.
- Creates strong regional marketing campaigns.
19. Horizon Line Books
A contemporary literary press known for its willingness to experiment with form, Horizon Line Books publishes literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry.
- Encourages innovative storytelling.
- Selective submission process with close editorial collaboration.
20. Iron Horse Publishing
Iron Horse Publishing blends traditional publishing with modern marketing strategies, producing fiction and nonfiction across genres.
- Offers both e-book and print formats.
- Invests in strong cover design and branding.
21. Juniper Hill Press
Juniper Hill Press concentrates on memoir, biography, and family histories, often working with Montana residents to preserve generational stories.
- Specializes in editing and narrative structuring.
- Known for personalized service and high-quality production.
22. Kootenai River Publishing
Kootenai River Publishing publishes regional history, cultural studies, and books on indigenous heritage.
- Partnerships with local historians and cultural experts.
- Releases titles for both educational and public audiences.
23. Last Chance Books
Named after Helena’s historic Last Chance Gulch, this publisher embraces Montana’s mining heritage while focusing on modern storytelling.
- Offers both historical fiction and contemporary novels.
- Works with local festivals and literary events.
24. Larkspur Literary Press
A literary press that supports poets and fiction writers, Larkspur places a strong emphasis on discovering new voices.
- Annual poetry prize with book publication.
- Elegant design emphasizing clean typography.
25. Lone Tree Publishing
Lone Tree specializes in outdoor adventure stories, including hunting memoirs, fishing guides, and mountain survival accounts.
- Appeals to enthusiasts of rugged outdoor lifestyles.
- Titles often feature first-hand experiences and practical advice.
26. Meadowlark Press
This press highlights regional fiction, particularly novels with strong character-driven plots and ties to Montana’s landscapes.
- Works with local book clubs for community engagement.
- Balances traditional print runs with e-book editions.
27. Mission Valley Books
Mission Valley Books focuses on educational texts and children’s literature, producing materials designed for classrooms and libraries.
- Creates activity books for young readers.
- Prioritizes affordable pricing for schools.
28. Montana Heritage Press
A historical publisher with a specialty in Montana’s pioneer and indigenous histories, Montana Heritage Press is a trusted source for accurate historical accounts.
- Works with historians and archivists.
- Produces both popular and academic history books.
29. Montana Sky Publishing
Montana Sky is known for its romance and inspirational fiction, particularly series set in the American West.
- Publishes both contemporary and historical romance.
- Has a loyal following among digital readers.
30. Mountain Creek Publishing
Mountain Creek Publishing balances regional nonfiction with lifestyle books, including cookbooks and homesteading guides.
- Strong emphasis on Montana food culture.
- Works with chefs and local artisans.
31. North Star Press of Montana
North Star Press blends literary fiction with nonfiction that promotes exploration and personal growth.
- Produces memoirs, essays, and spiritual nonfiction.
- Encourages stories of resilience and human experience.
32. Northern Lights Publishing
This press focuses on science writing, astronomy, and educational nonfiction, drawing inspiration from Montana’s vast night skies.
- Educational partnerships with schools and science centers.
- Illustrated books aimed at younger audiences.
33. Outlaw Canyon Press
Outlaw Canyon Press publishes western fiction, thrillers, and action-adventure stories inspired by Montana’s rugged frontier spirit.
- Specializes in fast-paced, plot-driven narratives.
- Promotes regional authors in genre fiction.
34. Painted Horse Publishing
Painted Horse Publishing combines traditional and digital publishing, with titles in historical fiction, cultural studies, and Native American storytelling.
- Focuses on authenticity and respectful representation.
- Includes art and cultural illustration in select titles.
35. Pine Cone Press
A small independent publisher focusing on children’s and middle-grade literature, often with environmental themes.
- Produces colorful picture books.
- Encourages eco-friendly values in storytelling.
36. Pioneer Valley Publishing
Pioneer Valley specializes in memoirs and novels rooted in pioneer heritage and frontier survival.
- Historical fiction with authentic detail.
- Nonfiction accounts of Montana settlers and homesteaders.
37. Prairie Fire Press
Prairie Fire Press promotes contemporary poetry and short fiction with a bold, experimental edge.
- Known for anthologies of emerging voices.
- Offers chapbook contests for poets.
38. Quartz Mountain Publishing
Quartz Mountain Publishing balances nonfiction research texts with outdoor travel and guidebooks.
- Popular among hikers, climbers, and naturalists.
- Emphasis on high-quality photography.
39. Red Lodge Books
A local publisher in Red Lodge, Montana, specializing in small-town literature and regional nonfiction.
- Close connections to local writers’ groups.
- Active in community events and local fairs.
40. Riverbend Publishing
Riverbend is a well-established Montana press focusing on history, outdoor recreation, and biography.
- Known for reliable editing and strong book design.
- Titles often distributed nationwide.
41. Rocky Mountain Press
Rocky Mountain Press publishes works on outdoor adventure, geology, and environmental stewardship.
- Ideal for writers passionate about Montana landscapes.
- Produces high-quality photo and science books.
42. Sagebrush Books
Sagebrush Books publishes western-themed fiction and nonfiction, often with a rustic or historical focus.
- Combines cowboy poetry with classic western narratives.
- Partners with museums and cultural organizations.
43. Sapphire Peak Publishing
Sapphire Peak specializes in romance, drama, and character-driven novels set in Montana.
- Strong editorial support for emerging authors.
- Emphasizes digital-first distribution.
44. Shadow Ridge Press
This press is known for publishing thrillers, mysteries, and speculative fiction from Montana-based authors.
- Encourages hybrid genre writing.
- Invests in strong cover art to attract readers.
45. Silver Bow Publishing
Silver Bow produces nonfiction titles on mining history, regional economies, and Montana industries.
- Historical depth and archival research.
- Supports both general interest and academic titles.
46. Snowcap Publishing
Snowcap Publishing works primarily on travel writing, skiing memoirs, and mountain sport guides.
- Popular among outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
- Illustrated books with maps and guides.
47. Spirit of the West Press
This publisher focuses on western heritage, cowboy culture, and folklore of Montana.
- Specializes in anthologies and oral histories.
- Publishes both poetry and nonfiction.
48. Stillwater River Publications
Stillwater River Publications produces fiction, nonfiction, and poetry by Montana authors.
- Offers editing and publishing support for indie writers.
- Active in state-wide literary festivals.
49. Summit Ridge Press
Summit Ridge Press emphasizes inspirational nonfiction, leadership books, and personal growth.
- Works with coaches and motivational writers.
- Offers both print and e-book publishing.
50. Thunder Mountain Publishing
Thunder Mountain Publishing blends outdoor memoirs, regional fiction, and cultural studies.
- Works with authors passionate about Montana wilderness.
- Known for strong storytelling tied to nature.
51. Timberline Books
Timberline publishes children’s adventure stories, often with outdoor exploration themes.
- Creates beautifully illustrated picture books.
- Collaborates with educators to support literacy.
52. Treasure State Press
Treasure State Press publishes both fiction and nonfiction with a regional Montana focus, including guidebooks and essays.
- Accessible, affordable publications.
- Supports local authors at all career stages.
53. Two Medicine Publishing
Named after the scenic Two Medicine area, this publisher focuses on travel narratives, cultural histories, and literary nonfiction.
- Balances literary quality with commercial appeal.
- Highlights Montana’s cultural and natural heritage.
Conclusion
Montana’s publishing landscape in 2025 demonstrates just how vibrant and varied the state’s literary ecosystem has become. From Barnett Ghostwriting’s professional services to the poetry-focused presses and regional history publishers, Montana offers authors opportunities across genres.
Key takeaways:
- Regional roots remain strong: Many presses keep Montana’s landscapes, history, and culture at the heart of their publishing choices.
- Innovation is growing: Hybrid publishing, eco-conscious production, and digital-first models are becoming more common.
- Community connections matter: Nearly all of these presses emphasize ties to schools, festivals, libraries, and cultural groups.
For writers, choosing the right publishing partner depends on their goals — whether it’s literary prestige, wide commercial reach, or preserving personal stories. With these 53 publishers, Montana stands out as a surprising hub for creativity and publishing excellence in 2025.
FAQs
Q1: How do I choose the right Montana publisher for my book?
Look for a press that specializes in your genre and matches your publishing goals.
Q2: Are hybrid publishing options available in Montana?
Yes, a growing number of presses provide hybrid and self-publishing services.
Q3: What genres are most common among Montana publishers?
Regional history, outdoor adventure, poetry, children’s books, and western fiction.
Q4: Do Montana publishers also offer digital and e-book formats?
Most modern presses now publish in both print and digital formats.
Q5: Do Montana publishers help with marketing?
Some offer in-house marketing, while others focus mainly on production and editing.