Summary
One of the main reasons to visit the park is to explore the underground caverns, which were discovered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. The caverns are open for tours and offer visitors a chance to see unique formations and learn about the history and geology of the area.
In addition to the caverns, the park also boasts hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and visitors can spot wildlife such as elk and deer. The park also has a visitor center with exhibits and educational programs.
Interesting facts about the area include that the caverns were formed millions of years ago by limestone deposits and that the park is home to over 400 documented caves and karst features. The park is also named after the famous explorers Lewis and Clark, who passed through the area during their expedition.
The best time of year to visit the park is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the park is bustling with activities. However, the caverns are open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the unique beauty of the park during the quieter seasons as well.
Overall, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montana. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse activities, the park offers something for everyone.
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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 |
|---|---|---|
Lewis & Clark Caverns Campground
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Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
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Harrison Lake FAS
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Boulder River
Jefferson Slough
Big Pipestone Creek