A historic confluence of three rivers forming the Missouri River, offering trails, campsites, and interpretive exhibits on Lewis and Clark’s expedition.

General Information

Hours:

Open year-round; daylight hours recommended

Fees:

Montana residents: Free with vehicle registration
Non-residents: $4 walk-in/bike, $8 per vehicle
Camping: $4–$34 per night depending on site

Pet Policy:

Leashed pets allowed; not permitted in buildings

Closest cities with hotels:

Three Forks, MT (3 mi)

Seasons:

All year; best in summer and early fall

Location:

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=1585+Trident+Rd,+Three+Forks,+MT+59752

Website:

fwp.mt.gov

How to Get There

From Bozeman, MT (33 mi): Take I-90 W to Exit 278, then follow signs to Trident Rd and the park entrance.

Overview

Missouri Headwaters State Park marks the birthplace of the Missouri River, where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers converge. This National Historic Landmark was a key site for the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Visitors can walk the same trails, camp under the stars, and explore interpretive exhibits that bring the expedition’s journey to life. The park also honors Sacajawea, who was captured nearby as a child and later returned with the Corps of Discovery.

The park’s 532 acres offer hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and tipi rentals. With sweeping plains, river views, and abundant wildlife, it’s a serene destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Educational programs and ranger talks enhance the experience during summer months.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Missouri Headwaters State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share