Ryegate is located between sandstone, rimrock cliffs and the Musselshell River on Highway 12. Ryegate is the location where the Nez Perce people, under the leadership of Chief Joseph, crossed the Musselshell River on September 17, 1877. Today, Ryegate is a farming and ranching community. Deadman's Basin, a few miles west of Ryegate offers camping, fishing boating and swimming. South of Ryegate is Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge provides habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, pronghorns, and prairie dogs.