|
Free
No entrance pass required
An entrance pass is not required to access Big Hole National Battlefield. Other National Park Service sites may require an entrance pass or fee. Depending on your trip plans, an interagency pass may save you money. The general public does not need to pay entrance fees, make reservations, or obtain permits for recreational activities such as hiking on trail, attending ranger programs, or enjoying the visitor center. However, anglers must possess a valid Montana state fishing license and must comply with State of Montana sport fishing regulations.
Some activities may require a permit. To determine if you need a permit, refer to the drop-down menu below or contact us.
2026 Free Entrance Days in the National ParksCome experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to US citizens and residents (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:
ReservationsPrimary, secondary, and home-school teachers interested in field trips can visit our education page to arrange a sit. PermitsResearch and Collection PermitsBig Hole is interested in working with researchers from a wide variety of organizations. Please contact the park to discuss your project and obtain a permit. Special Use Permits Most special events and activities held in the park require a special use permit. Permits allow the park to determine the impact of the activity on park values and resources. Please note that there are usage limits for the number of people and vehicles for any special activity.
Special park uses include a wide range of activities such as organizational special events, religious gatherings, ceremonies, large group activity (over 25 participants), camps or rendezvous. It is the responsibility of the activity planner to inquire about permits. If you are still unsure if you need a permit, contact the park. All participants associated with a Special Park Use event such as a wedding must observe and comply with all park regulations.
A special park use is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:
To apply for a special use permit, submit an application by email, mail, or drop it off at the park visitor center. An application can be submitted no more than twelve (12) months in advance and at least 30 days prior to the date of the planned event. When filling out the application ensure that all questions are answered as accurately and completely as possible. Applications should not be altered in any way and permits cannot be processed until we receive your original application. Applications are considered in the order they are received. The information on the Application for Special Use Permit will assist us in accommodating your request, and the Special Use Permit will provide an avenue for communicating any special concerns or conditions regarding your use of the area that you have requested. The permit also serves as documentation of our agreement regarding the terms and conditions under which the special use of the park will be approved. When your request is approved, a Special Use Permit will be mailed to you for signature. The permit must be returned to the park within 10 business and is not authorized until the park superintendent has signed the permit. Failure to return the permit may result in the cancellation of your event at the park. Before any permit will be granted, consideration will be given to potential park resource impacts, as well as impacts to visitor use, access to park sites, or park administration. Application Fees Permits are required for commercial operations wishing to film within the boundaries of Big Hole National Battlefield. Please contact the park to discuss your film idea and obtain a permit. In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:
Permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity. In most cases, still photography does not require a permit. A permit is required for still photography only when:
Appropriate permits are required in order for individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other functions for members, clients, or the public that take place at least in part at Big Hole National Battlefield, that use park resources, and that result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit. Please contact the park to discuss your venture and obtain a permit.
First Amendment ActivitiesAs in all units of the National Park Service, First Amendment Activities are welcome here. The Designated First Amendment Area is located south of the Visitor Center just past the tipi demonstration area next to the parking lot.
Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are rights protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, and in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulation. The National Park Service still retains its responsibility to protect park resources and prevent impacts to park visitors. First Amendment activities must not interfere with other permitted activities or regular park programing. Groups of 25 or more, or groups desiring to reserve designated areas in advance, require a permit. A first amendment permit will not be issued for more than 14 days. Applicants will be required to reapply for additional permits. |
Last updated: April 3, 2026