Summary
It is a working cattle ranch that was established in the late 19th century by Conrad Kohrs, a pioneering cattleman. The property was later bought by Senator William A. Clark, who expanded and modernized it. The ranch was eventually donated to the National Park Service and is now a popular tourist destination.
There are several good reasons to visit Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. Firstly, it offers a unique glimpse into the history of cattle ranching in the American West. Visitors can see the original ranch buildings, including the main house, barns, and corrals, as well as a museum that showcases the tools and equipment used by the cowboys.
One of the key points of interest at Grant-Kohrs Ranch is the cattle drive, which takes place every spring. This is a chance to see cowboys and cowgirls rounding up and moving the cattle from the lower pastures to the higher grazing areas. Visitors can also take guided tours of the ranch, participate in cowboy demonstrations, and attend special events throughout the year.
There are several interesting facts about Grant-Kohrs Ranch. For example, the property was once home to over 50,000 head of cattle, making it one of the largest and most successful ranches in the region. The ranch also played a key role in the development of the Hereford breed of cattle, which became popular throughout the United States.
The best time of year to visit Grant-Kohrs Ranch is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors should be aware that the ranch is closed during the winter months, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Overall, Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is a fascinating and educational destination for anyone interested in the history of the American West. With its picturesque setting, authentic ranch buildings, and lively demonstrations, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Montana.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Orofino Campground and Picnic Area
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Orofino
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Orofino Campground
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Lading campground
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Kading Campground
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Kading
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