Missouri Headwaters State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Missouri Headwaters State Park is located in southern Montana and marks the official start of the Missouri River. The park is 532 acres in size and 4,045 feet in elevation, preserving much of the region's abundant wildlife, lush vegetation, and scenic beauty. It is also home to the Three Forks of the Missouri National Historic Landmark, a famous site where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped in 1805. For many years now, Missouri Headwaters State Park has been a popular place for visitors to come and learn about its significance for early pioneers, as well as to partake in recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and more.
Missouri Headwaters State Park provides a habitat for many bird species, as well as other wildlife such as beaver, mink, river otter, deer, and moose. The park is open year-round and in summer, visitors can expect highs of up to 86°F, while winter can bring temperatures as low as 13°F. If you’re planning a trip to Missouri Headwaters State Park, you’ll certainly want to come prepared. Keep reading to find out all there is to know about this unique region.
Spring 24°F - 68°F
Summer 47°F - 86°F
Fall 21°F - 74°F
Winter 13°F - 40°F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Missouri Headwaters State Park
There are plenty of camping opportunities in and around Missouri Headwaters State Park, including both within tents and RVs. If roughing-it in a sleeping bag and the tiny space that a tent offers isn’t quite your thing, then we wholeheartedly recommend the warmth, comfort, and all-round glamping that an RV offers.
If you don’t own an RV, you can easily rent an RV fromRVshare that suits your individual needs. All rentals come with nationwide insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a world-class team dedicated to helping you succeed.
The Missouri Headwaters State Park has its own campground with basic facilities, however no hookups or dump station are provided. There are also a number of RV parks and campgrounds located within vicinity to the state park, which we’ve listed below.
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.
What to Do at
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.
How to Get to
Missouri Headwaters State Park
The state park is located 31 miles from Bozeman, Montana, off I-90, just a few miles from Three Forks. Take I-90 East of Bozeman and head 4 miles northeast of Three Forks, off of Hwy 205, then onto Hwy 286 to Missouri Headwaters State Park.
Entering Missouri Headwaters State Park
The daily entrance fee ranges from $4 - $6 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors, depending on the time of year.
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
The best time to visit Missouri Headwaters State Park depends on your goals. If you want to hike and enjoy the river, visit in the summer. If you want to hunt mule deer or moose, visit during the off-season.
Missouri Headwaters State Park is located in southern Montana, where the warm-weather season is short but dry. Winter brings plenty of snowfall and bitter-cold temperatures. The coldest period lasts about three months.
Missouri Headwaters State Park is home to many animals including moose, mule deer, river otter, mink, and beaver. You might even see black bears, as they're widespread throughout the state. Some grizzlies might even make their way into the area.
Missouri Headwaters State Park is a basic campground with no hookups available. The largest RV site in the campground can handle an RV up to 60 feet long. There are pull-through and back-in spaces.
Missouri Headwaters State Park has first-come, first-serve spots. Since the park gets busy in the summer, making a reservation is a good idea. You'll need to call the park for current rates.
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