Missouri Headwaters State Park
00 review1585 Trident Road, Three Forks, Montana, 59725, United States
Missouri Headwaters State Park
$18.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee is $28 per night for non-residents and $18 per night for residents. Tipi rentals are available for $30 per night.
About this campground
Where three legendary rivers converge to birth the mighty Missouri, Missouri Headwaters State Park offers a rare glimpse into both natural wonder and American history. This intimate, family-friendly campground invites you to sleep under the same stars that guided Lewis and Clark, while the gentle murmur of converging waters creates nature's perfect lullaby. Despite its monumental significance, the park maintains a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere that makes it ideal for families seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Missouri Headwaters State Park primarily offers primitive camping, with some RV and tent sites available. There is also a unique rental tipi.
Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of America's greatest adventure story at the very spot where Meriwether Lewis stood in July 1805, marveling at the birth of the Missouri River. Here, the Corps of Discovery faced a crucial decision that would shape their journey west. Today, thoughtfully placed interpretive displays and historic trails allow you to literally walk in the explorers' footsteps, while imagining Sacagawea guiding the expedition through this pivotal landscape that would forever change the map of a nation.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints the headwaters in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and migrating waterfowl, though evenings can still carry winter's chill. Summer brings warm days perfect for riverside exploration, though wise campers come prepared for the mosquitoes that thrive in the lush wetlands. Autumn transforms the cottonwoods into golden sentinels, offering crisp air and spectacular wildlife viewing. Winter blankets the confluence in serene snow, creating a stark beauty that few visitors witness.
Natural Features and SceneryThe dramatic confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers creates a living geography lesson where emerald waters merge against a backdrop of distant mountain ranges. The surrounding wetlands burst with life—from stately moose wading through marshy shallows to white-tailed deer grazing at dawn. Rabbits dart between sagebrush while overhead, great blue herons patrol the riverbanks and eagles soar on thermal currents. The relatively flat terrain makes exploration accessible to all ages, revealing hidden beaver dams, native grasslands, and cottonwood groves that whisper with history.
Geological RegionThis remarkable geological crossroads showcases the raw power of water in shaping landscapes. Three distinct river personalities—the swift Gallatin, meandering Madison, and steady Jefferson—unite to form the Missouri River in a confluence that has captivated humans for millennia. The surrounding wetlands and riparian zones create a unique ecosystem where mountain runoff meets prairie, supporting an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life. The flat bottomlands, carved by centuries of flooding and deposition, provide a gentle contrast to the dramatic mountain ranges visible on every horizon.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes two ADA-compliant campsites designed for accessibility and located near restrooms.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating setups like tents to small RVs; some sites can fit units up to 32 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as open and close together, with limited privacy due to flat and dense terrain.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites 16 or 17 for better privacy and location further from the road.
Best CampsitesSite numbers 16 and 17 are considered the best for their location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- 2:00 PM for campsites
- 3:00 PM for tipis.
Check-out
- 1:00 PM for campsites
- 12:00 PM for tipis.
Stay Limit
Maximum capacity at each campsite is eight people.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small and compact with sites close to each other. Some overflow areas are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is year-round; however, water may be turned off seasonally.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Montana State Parks website or by contacting the park directly.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral sites are first-come, first-served. Overflow parking is available.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable and cannot be resold. Late checkouts may incur additional fees unless prior arrangements are made with park staff.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities centered around its historical and natural features, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching and river activities like boating, canoeing, and kayaking are popular.
Hiking
Multiple trails are available, including '1-2 hour flat hikes' leading to the confluence of three rivers and historic sites.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Missouri River Headwaters, described as featuring 'fast-moving rivers with some fishable eddies and slack water.'Biking
The park features both paved and unpaved biking trails, suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and canoeing are supported, with a boat ramp available on-site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted, with deer, moose, and rabbits commonly seen around the campground.Cultural and Educational Programs
A Saturday night speaker series features 'top-notch presenters' providing historical and educational content.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are supported on the river.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in iron fire rings and grills. Propane and LPG stoves permitted.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a major concern during warmer months; bring bug spray. Wetland terrain may be prone to flooding or muddy conditions.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles: Emergency services include a hospital and a medical clinic in Three Forks.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak use may align with summer months, but specific dates are not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically described, but users suggest trash bins are available.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the confluence of Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers. The Madison River is accessible via trails.
Common complaintsMosquito infestation, lack of privacy between campsites, and close proximity to roads are common complaints.
HostCampground hosts are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable. However, one user noted the host as being overly strict.
Campground Map
1585 Trident Road, Three Forks, Montana, 59725, United States
Driving directionsMissouri Headwaters State Park is located 4 miles northeast of Three Forks, off of Hwy 205, then onto Hwy 286.
An easy three-mile drive off Interstate 90 at Three Forks.Nearby places
Three Forks (4 miles, estimated 10-minute drive), Bozeman (approximately 30 miles, estimated 30-40 minute drive), Butte (approximately 65 miles, estimated 60-75 minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: Grocery store and diners in Three Forks. Propane, firewood, and ice available at the campground.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Missouri Headwaters State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Missouri Headwaters State Park are mixed, with many praising the cleanliness of facilities, historical significance, and hiking trails. Issues like mosquitoes, lack of privacy, and small campsites are frequently noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, historical significance, and scenic trails leading to river confluences are often praised.
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes are a significant issue, and campsites are described as small, close together, and lacking privacy. There are complaints about noise from generators and nearby traffic.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray due to mosquitoes. Sites 16 and 17 are noted as the best spots for privacy and space. Reserve sites in advance as the campground fills up quickly.
Seasonal Insights
Summers bring the highest number of mosquitoes, which disrupt outdoor activities. Late spring and early fall are less buggy and more pleasant.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilet is very clean, better than most gas stations.' (User, 2021) 2. 'The camp host was very knowledgeable in the history of the area.' (User, 2022) 3. 'Sites are cleaned immediately upon...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 16 and 17 are highlighted as the best for privacy and space. Site 13 is described as 'extra large,' but placement close to a road reduces its appeal.
Accessibility Features
Two ADA-accessible campsites near restrooms are available and well-maintained, receiving positive feedback from users.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs must be leashed, but some users report non-compliance by other campers, leading to issues with off-leash dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025