Operating Hours & Seasons

River Use River use on the Missouri National Recreational River is permitted 24 hours a day, year-round. However, we recommend checking the weather and river conditions before setting out on your river trip and always prioritize your safety while on the river. Be mindful of potential flooding, ice floes, or other hazardous conditions. Seasons May to late September is generally the peak season for paddling, boating, camping, attending ranger-led activities, and more! Late September and October can be spectacular with fall foliage ablaze in magnificent colors. Many hunting seasons in South Dakota and Nebraska kick off from September to November. Winter provides a carpet of snow that makes for amazing photographic opportunities. Limited river access may occur during winter months due to ice and snow build up on public accesses. Spring tends to arrive in April, and by mid-May, flowers and plants are in full bloom. Whatever time of year you visit, the Missouri National Recreational River is ready and waiting. Check out Things To Do to learn about year-round activities along the river.

Park Properties Hours & Seasons Bow Creek Recreation Area Goat Island Recreation Area Green Island Recreation Area James River Island Recreation Area Mulberry Bend Overlook   Be prepared for snow, cold temperatures, and wind if you plan to visit the park headquarters and Visitor Contact Station in January. NPS Visitor Centers The National Park Service operates a Visitor Contact Station inside the Missouri National Recreational River Park Headquarters located at 508 East Second Street in Yankton, South Dakota. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. A National Park Passport Book stamping station is located in the outdoor information kiosk next to the front door for after-hours use.   Lewis and Clark Visitor Center The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center is operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, this visitor center includes exhibits and information on the Missouri River basin. It is located on Calumet Bluff just downstream from the Gavins Point Dam in Nebraska. Address Operating Hours & Seasons Contact Information   Missouri National Recreational River Resource and Education Center The building is located in Nebraska's Ponca State Park and houses a large exhibit wing featuring the wild and scenic Missouri River and the Missouri National Recreational River. A valid daily or annual entry permit is required. Address Operating Hours and Seasons Contact Info   Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium is one of over 70 federal hatcheries and fish technology centers operated nationwide by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the fish hatchery and aquarium offers fully guided group tours, fish feeding opportunities, two miles of nature trails and an aquarium featuring 10,000 gallons of display space and many local species of fish, amphibians and reptiles.  Address Operating Hours and Seasons Contact Info