Missouri Headwaters State Park & Three Forks of the Missouri National Historic Landmark

Sunset on Missouri Headwaters State Park

Courtesy U.S. National Parks

Quick Facts

Location:

Three Forks, MT

MANAGED BY:

Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks

Amenities

23 listed

Accessible Sites, Beach/Water Access, Boat Ramp, Canoe/Kayak/Small Boat Launch, Entrance Passes For Sale, Firewood For Sale/Available, First Aid Kit Available, Grill, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Parking - Auto, Parking - Boat Trailer, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Flush, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Water - Drinking/Potable

Lewis and Clark NHT Visitor Centers and Museums

This map shows a range of features associated with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which commemorates the 1803-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. The trail spans a large portion of the North American continent, from the Ohio River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington. The trail is comprised of the historic route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, an auto tour route, high potential historic sites (shown in black), visitor centers (shown in orange), and pivotal places (shown in green). These features can be selected on the map to reveal additional information. Also shown is a base map displaying state boundaries, cities, rivers, and highways. The map conveys how a significant area of the North American continent was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition and indicates the many places where visitors can learn about their journey and experience the landscape through which they traveled.

Surrounded by lush plains and meadows and backdropped by distant majestic mountains, Missouri Headwaters State Park is a breathtaking area. It lies at the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers, which unite to form the mighty Missouri River. In addition to preserving the area’s vibrant scenic beauty, the park also memorializes the local history.  

In July 1805, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark of the Corps of Discovery camped in this area. While there, they noted the as being home to the Blackfeet Nation, as well as numerous grizzly bears. They also saw it as being of strategic importance to the United States government and recommended a fort be built along the river. It was also at this location that the Hidatsa tribe captured Lewis and Clark’s native guide, Sacagewea.  

While a military fort was never built, a group of fur traders from the Missouri Fur Company did establish a makeshift cottonwood structure here known as Fort Three Forks in 1810 with the intent of making it a trading post. Within a few months, however, they abandoned the endeavor after conflicts with the native people. In 1960, the site was designated the Three Forks of the Missouri National Historic Landmark.  

Missouri Headwaters State Park is open year-round. For those looking to stay overnight, there are 17 campsites available, along with tipi rentals. Several foot trails lead to scenic spots and other points of interest. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, floating on the river, swimming, bicycling, and picnicking. Interpretive programs are also available. 

For more information on programs, activities, and camping, call [phone] or visit http://stateparks.mt.gov/missouri-headwaters/.