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Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground


Within the boundaries of this scenic park and National Historic Landmark, the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers merge to form the 2,300 mile Missouri River.

Considering it an essential point in the geography of this western part of the continent, Meriwether Lewis wrote the country opens suddenly to extensive and beautiful plains and meadows which appear to be surrounded in every direction with distant and lofty mountains. The legendary Sacajawea was captured here as a child and eventually returned as a member of the Corps of Discovery.

Another member of this expedition, John Colter, later made several trips to this area in search of furs and began his famous run nearby. Pioneers slowly settled the surrounding area and transformed it into profitable grazing and farming land. Missouri Headwaters State Park preserves much of the region's abundant wildlife, lush, vegetation, and scenic beauty that have attracted people for thousands of years.

The park is 532 acres in size and is 4,045 feet in elevation. It provides 17 campsites (including ADA Accessible) and a tipi rental. Each site has fire rings with grills. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. There is potable water and both flush and vault toilets. A camp host is available during limited hours. Some amenities are seasonal.

The park has foot trails to points of interest and interpretive displays of the area's cultural and natural history. River activities include floating, fishing, and boating, and many activities, such as picnicking, bicycling, hiking, interpretive programs, and photography are adjacent to the river. There is a boat launch and picnic shelter. Within the boundaries of this scenic park and National Historic Landmark, the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers merge to form the 2,300 mile Missouri River.

Considering it an essential point in the geography of this western part of the continent, Meriwether Lewis wrote the country opens suddenly to extensive and beautiful plains and meadows which appear to be surrounded in every direction with distant and lofty mountains. The legendary Sacajawea was captured here as a child and eventually returned as a member of the Corps of Discovery.

Another member of this expedition, John Colter, later made several trips to this area in search of furs and began his famous run nearby. Pioneers slowly settled the surrounding area and transformed it into profitable grazing and farming land. Missouri Headwaters State Park preserves much of the region's abundant wildlife, lush, vegetation, and scenic beauty that have attracted people for thousands of years.

The park is 532 acres in size and is 4,045 feet in elevation. It provides 17 campsites (including ADA Accessible) and a tipi rental. Each site has fire rings with grills. Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. There is potable water and both flush and vault toilets. A camp host is available during limited hours. Some amenities are seasonal.

The park has foot trails to points of interest and interpretive displays of the area's cultural and natural history. River activities include floating, fishing, and boating, and many activities, such as picnicking, bicycling, hiking, interpretive programs, and photography are adjacent to the river. There are a boat launch and picnic shelter.

Visit Montana
Montana State Parks

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground

This park is where Lewis and Clark stayed in 1805.

Attraction Advice

The park is open year-round. Campsite fees range from $4-$34 per night, depending on season and available amenities. Montana State Parks offers hike/bike, rustic, tent, RV, and boat slip campsites. Tipi rental rate is $30 per night, $26 per night off-season (the third Monday in September to the third Thursday in May) for residents. Nonresidents are $42 per night, $36 per night off-season.




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