Montana State Parks on the Backroad to Yellowstone
Within a few miles of the heart of the Backroad to Yellowstone are three unique Montana State Parks with ties to Lewis and Clark. With scenic beauty, historic interest and camping options, these parks are among the most fascinating Montana as to offer!
Lewis and Clark Caverns Already a featured site on the Backroad to Yellowstone, this amazing geological formation is a perfect stop for the active family. Tours are available May 1 to December 30.
The park includes 10 miles of hiking trails, 40-space campground, 3 camping cabins, tipi, picnic sites, firewood, flush and vault toilets, showers, group use area, RV dump station, grills/fire rings, picnic tables, trash cans, drinking water, and a food/beverage and gift concession. Pets are allowed if on a leash and under control.
Beaverhead Rock State Park A slight detour off the Backroad (US Hwy 287) to State Hwy 287 from Virginia City will take you past the famous Robber’s Roost and Laurin, MT – infamous outlaw hangouts and now ghost towns. You can stop for a tasting of fresh cheese and maybe a sip of wine at the Poor Orphan Creamer in Laurin and as you turn toward Dillon (and the Patagonia Outlet) you will see the famous Beaverhead Rock. Sacagawea had described the rock to Lewis and Clark and it is noted in their journal. “This hill she says her nation calls the beaver’s head from a conceived resemblance of its figure to the head of that animal. She assures us that we shall either find her people on this river or on the river immediately west of its source; which from its present size cannot be very distant.” Meriwether Lewis, August 8, 1805. There are no facilities at this park – only viewing.
Missouri Headwaters State Park Stand in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark at the merging of the Madison, Gallatin and Jefferson Rivers – the headwaters of the mighty Missouri River. Activities include camping, hiking, and a special series of Summer Events including a Speaker Series, Saturday evenings at 7 pm in the park’s picnic area. Following each presentation is a marshmallow roast campfire. Presentations are free and open to the public, just bring a chair.
