Missouri Headwaters State Park

Star4.23
124 reviews
1585 Trident Road, Three Forks, Montana, 59725, United States

Quick Facts

4,042 ft

Price

$18 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Montana State Parks site

Official Website
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Missouri Headwaters State Park
$18.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee is $28 per night for non-residents and $18 per night for residents. Tipi rentals are available for $30 per night.
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

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What Campers Say

4.23

Satisfactory

Based on 124 reviews

115 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanfriendly

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1585 Trident Road, Three Forks, Montana, 59725, United States

Missouri Headwaters State Park

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.

Best Time to Camp at Missouri Headwaters State Park

Each 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm summer days but peak mosquito problems in summer disrupt activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Late spring and early fall noted as less buggy and more pleasant than summer.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 10% in MT

Spring brings wildflowers and migrating waterfowl though nights can still be chilly.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round but water may be off and evenings carry winter chill; few winter amenities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak use may align with summer months, but specific dates are not mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season is year-round; however, water may be turned off seasonally.

About Missouri Headwaters State Park

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.
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Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

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.

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.
HikingMultiple trails are available, including '1-2 hour flat hikes' leading to the confluence of three rivers and historic sites.
FishingFishing is available in the Missouri River Headwaters, described as featuring 'fast-moving rivers with some fishable eddies and slack water.'
BikingThe park features both paved and unpaved biking trails, suitable for various skill levels.
BoatingBoating activities such as kayaking and canoeing are supported, with a boat ramp available on-site.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is highlighted, with deer, moose, and rabbits commonly seen around the campground.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsA Saturday night speaker series features 'top-notch presenters' providing historical and educational content.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are a major concern during warmer months; bring bug spray. Wetland terrain may be prone to flooding or muddy conditions.

Weather at Missouri Headwaters State Park

Reviews

4.2
124 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Missouri Headwaters State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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
Based on 124 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, historical significance, and scenic trails leading to river confluences are often praised.
Based on 124 reviews

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.
Based on 124 reviews

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.
Based on 124 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summers bring the highest number of mosquitoes, which disrupt outdoor activities. Late spring and early fall are less buggy and more pleasant.
Based on 124 reviews

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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Based on 124 reviews

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.
Based on 124 reviews

Accessibility Features

Two ADA-accessible campsites near restrooms are available and well-maintained, receiving positive feedback from users.
Based on 124 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs must be leashed, but some users report non-compliance by other campers, leading to issues with off-leash dogs.
Based on 124 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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