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Missouri Headwaters State Park RV & Campground Guide

Montana

Missouri Headwaters State Park sits where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers merge and form the Missouri River in Montana. This makes it a popular destination for boating and fishing. In addition, you'll be able to enjoy scenic hikes on the park's trails, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing during the winter months, and much more. The area is famous because it was a stopping point for the Lewis and Clark expeditionary team on their journey west.

Nearby Cities

  • Three Forks, MT

  • Butte, MT

  • Manhattan, MT

  • Townsend, MT

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Weather
Spring 17-37 F
Summer 25-49 F
Fall 53-87 F
Winter 34-60 F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in Missouri Headwaters State Park

Campground Accommodations

Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground

  • Water hookup: No

  • Electrical hookup: No

  • Sewer hookup: No

  • Wi-Fi: No

  • Pet-friendly: Yes

  • Max RV length: 60 feet

  • Other amenities: Picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, showers, ADA-compliant sites

Bozeman Hot Springs Campground

Located just 30 minutes’ drive from the state is theBozeman Hot Springs Campground, an award-winning venue providing full hookups and accommodation for RVs, tents, and those wishing to stay in cabins. This campground closes during winter but is available from spring throughout fall.

  • Water hookup: yes

  • Electrical hookup: yes

  • Sewer hookup: yes

  • Wifi: yes

  • Pet-friendly: yes

  • Other amenities: clubhouse, game room, horseshoes, outdoor chess, laundry facilities, showers, restrooms, playground, ladder golf, bark park, dump station, gift shop.

Three Forks Campground

Just 12 minutes’ drive from the state park is theThree Forks Campground, which is surrounded by several mountains, rivers, streams and lakes. The facility is open from May 1st to September 30th.

  • Water hookup: yes

  • Electrical hookup: yes

  • Sewer hookup: yes

  • Wifi: yes

  • Pet-friendly: yes

  • Other amenities: laundry facilities, gift shop, fire rings, playground, restrooms, firewood.

Townsend / Canyon Ferry Lake KOA

If you journey a little further out of town, up to the beautiful region of Townsend, you’ll find another highly-rated facility providing RV camping – the Townsend / Canyon Ferry Lake KOA. Here, you can expect some of the best walleye and trout fishing in the state, including ice fishing! 

  • Water hookup: yes

  • Electrical hookup: yes

  • Sewer hookup: yes

  • Wifi: yes

  • Pet-friendly: yes

  • Other amenities: laundry facilities, fire rings, playground, restrooms, showers, firewood, dog park, snack bar, pavilion, horseshoes, volleyball.

RV Rentals Near Missouri Headwaters State Park

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Restaurants

What to Do at
Missouri Headwaters State Park

At Missouri Headwaters State Park, you will be able to enjoy fishing and swimming. You'll also be able to explore the outdoors on hikes near the headwaters of the Missouri River. In addition, the Madison, Gallatin, and Jackson Rivers intersect in the park, offering kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts unique paddling adventures. Don't forget to check out the park's website for their interpretive program schedule before heading out on your trip. These ranger-led sessions provide education on the local wildlife, geography, and history during the summer months.

If you want to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities in a scenic environment, head to Missouri Headwaters State Park.

Inside Missouri Headwaters State Park

If you thought the camping opportunities were impressive, wait until you hear about the activities available to visitors within the state park. From hiking and fishing, to kayaking, hunting, ranger-led events and more – there’s something for absolutely everyone at Missouri Headwaters State Park!

Hiking : There are 4 miles of hiking trails that wander through meadows, along rivers, and to scenic vistas, plus there is also an interpretive nature trail for those wanting something a bit different. Many of these trails are shared with horse riders and bicycles, however, so take extra care.

Fishing : The Missouri Headwaters river system is well-known for its fruitful fishing opportunities. Visitors can expect to catch species such as brook trout, mountain whitefish, cutthroat trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout. Just keep in mind the state of Montana requires all anglers over the age of 12 to have and possess a valid fishing license.

Kayaking and canoeing : The park has one boat ramp for park guests to enter the Missouri River. While you can bring your own kayaks and canoes from home, they will need to have a boat inspection before entering the water to help protect the area against invasive water species. Numerous local companies also offer kayak and canoe rentals, as well as guided excursions.

Hunting : During the off-season, you can also partake in hunting within the state park – providing you have the required licenses, safety training, and don’t interfere with other recreational activities going on in the area. Waterfowl such as coots, geese, and ducks or game birds such as pheasants can be hunted, as can larger game animals including mule deer, moose, and white-tailed deer. Check the latest rules and regulations with the state park first. 

Summer events : During peak-season, you can enjoy many events and programs held by both rangers and special guests. While some have an educational focus on the area’s history, others provide food, music, and other forms of entertainment. Check thecalendar for more information.

Fishing Fishing

The headwaters of the Missouri River are home to arctic grayling, pallid sturgeon, Rocky Mountain sculpin, stonechat, and American paddlefish. In addition, the river freezes during the winter months, becoming a popular place for ice fishing.

Geocaching Geocaching

Missouri Headwaters State Park has several caches. You can use your smartphone to find one, and once you do, take a prize from the container and sign the logbook. However, you should bring along a family-friendly item to leave for the next treasure hunter.

Stargazing Stargazing

This state park is far from city lights, so it does not experience a lot of light pollution. You can bring a blanket to a meadow near the river or set up a telescope at a picnic table to enjoy a fascinating evening of gazing at stars, constellations, and planets.

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to grassy meadows, forests, and a wide range of wildlife species. In the spring and early summer, the landscape is dotted with blooming wildflowers, such as lupines, lilies, and harebells. While hiking, you may spot deer, elk, foxes, raccoons and even bears.

Hiking Hiking

The trails in the park are relatively short, which makes them perfect for day hiking and family outings. The Headwaters Trail has interpretive signs to learn more about the history and wildlife in the park. Alternatively, the Fort Rock Trail Loop takes you along a ridgeline that offers splendid views of the plains below and majestic mountains in the distance.

Boating

Kayaking and canoeing are popular in all three rivers found at the park. If you don't bring your own, you can rent watercraft from the local outfitters. They also offer guided boat tours.

Swimming Swimming

There are no designated swimming areas at the park. However, you are allowed to wade and swim in the rivers. The water is chilly but can be refreshing on a hot day.

Biking

Mountain biking is permitted on the park's hiking trails. In addition, bicyclists use the park's roads to exercise or get around.

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How to Get to
Missouri Headwaters State Park

If you're coming from Great Falls, MT, get on Route I-15 and head south. Then, get off at exit 192 to take US-12/US-287 towards the Capitol Area and Townsend, and make a left onto US-287 South. Then, get on I-90 for 3.3 miles and get off at Montana Route 2 to head towards Trident. Make a left on Trident Road to reach the park.

If you're coming from Billings, MT, get on I-90 and head west for 161.8 miles. Then, turn right on Buffalo Jump Road. Take this road until making a left onto Frontage Road in 0.3 miles. Travel on Frontage Road for 0.2 miles until you reach Trident Road, which will take you to the entrance.

If you're coming from Butte, MT, take I-90 east for approximately 52 miles. Then, get off at exit 278 onto Frontage Road. Turn left on this road until you reach Trident Road. Make a left on Trident Road, and the park will be on the left.

Entering Missouri Headwaters State Park

Parking is available at a parking lot across from the entrance and the campground. The fee is $6 per vehicle.

We’re very excited that you’re planning a trip to Missouri Headwaters State Park. Once you’ve finished exploring all that the park has to offer, there are also some incredible opportunities waiting for you outside of its gates! During or after your stay, we encourage you to tag us in any of your social media posts, or why not share your photos and experience with us at [email protected]? We may even feature your story on our blog or social media channels. Happy camping! 

Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Headwaters State Park

What is the best time of year to visit Missouri Headwaters State Park?

While the park can be visited anytime during the year, most outdoor activities are best enjoyed during the summer months. If you head to the park during the winter months, you'll be able to enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, as the region receives approximately 40 inches of snow per year.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Missouri Headwaters State Park?

The region is home to pronghorn, moose, bison, deer, elk, raccoons, foxes, bobcats, and black bears. In addition, you'll be able to see a wide range of bird species, including western meadowlarks, swans, geese, and mallards.

Are there designated RV camping spots in Missouri Headwaters State Park?

The campground at the park has 17 sites suitable for RVs. There are no hookups, but each spot has a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby vault toilets.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at Missouri Headwaters State Park and what is the cost?

You have to reserve a campsite before arriving and can do so online. The cost of camping in the park is $28 per night.

Are pets allowed at Missouri Headwaters State Park?

Your furry companions are welcome at the park, and they are allowed on the hiking trails. However, they must be on a leash, and you are responsible for picking up after them.