Summary
This 149-mile stretch of the Missouri River offers visitors stunning views of towering cliffs, beautiful wildlife, and historic landmarks.
One of the main reasons to visit the Upper Missouri River is to experience its rugged beauty and unspoiled wilderness. Visitors can float down the river on guided tours or kayaks, camp along its banks, or hike through the surrounding countryside.
There are many points of interest to see along the Upper Missouri River, including Fort Benton, which is the starting point of the river. Other noteworthy landmarks include the White Cliffs, Hole-in-the-Wall, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Wildlife such as bighorn sheep, elk, and bald eagles are also commonly seen in the area.
Interesting facts about the Upper Missouri River include its historical significance as a major route for Native American tribes and Lewis and Clark's famous expedition. The river is also home to rare and endangered species such as the pallid sturgeon and the interior least tern.
The best time of year to visit the Upper Missouri River is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the river is high enough for boating. However, spring and fall can also be great times to visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Overall, the National Wild & Scenic River Upper Missouri in Montana is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and historical significance of this unique region.
Weather Forecast
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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THE WALL
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SLAUGHTER RIVER
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Judith Landing
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PABLO RAPIDS (LOWER SITE)
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DARK BUTTE
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