Bannack State Park

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Park hours vary seasonally: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from January through mid-April and mid-October through December. Closed December 24 and 25.

About

Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark and one of Montana's best preserved ghost towns. On July 28, 1862, Montana's first major gold discovery sparked a massive rush that swelled Bannack's population to over 3,000 by 1863. As Montana's first territorial capital, the town played a crucial role in the state's formative years before being gradually abandoned as gold values declined. The campground features 28 sites along Grasshopper Creek, including standard tent and RV sites, a wall tent rental, a group picnic site, and a hike-in/bike-in campsite with 4 tent pads. Campers enjoy direct access to explore over 50 historic log and frame structures lining Main Street. The visitor center offers guided tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Annual events include Bannack Days in July with historic displays and re-enactors, and the Ghost Walk in October featuring live actors portraying Bannack's past residents. At 5,837 feet elevation in southwestern Montana, the park is open year-round. Winter visitors can ice skate on the frozen dredge pond from January through early March, weather permitting. The park offers vault and flush toilets, water, trash removal, and firewood for sale during the operating season.

Directions

Bannack State Park is located in southwestern Montana. From I-15 south of Dillon, take exit #59 (Highway 278 exit). Drive west on Highway 278 for 17 miles, then turn south onto Bannack Road and travel four miles. The park entrance will be on the left.

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