See the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the nation. Centuries before Lewis and Clark, this site has long been known and used by Native peoples, notably the Salish.
About the Park
Located at an historic and contemporary crossroads, Travelers' Rest State Park and National Historic Landmark is a place where visitors can say with certainty that they are walking in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The Park is at the core of a campsite used by the Corps of Discovery from September 9 - 11, 1805 and again from June 30 - July 3, 1806.
In the summer of 2002, archaeologists uncovered evidence of the Corps of Discovery's visit to the area, including a trench latrine tainted with mercury, fire hearths, and lead used in the repair and manufacture of firearms. The discovery makes Travelers' Rest the only campsite on the Lewis and Clark Trail with physical evidence of the expedition.
For centuries Native Americans also used the area as a campsite and trail junction. Salish, Pend d'Oreille and Nez Perce peoples were among those who traditionally occupied the area. Native American storytellers bring their history, culture and society to life as part of the programming at Travelers' Rest State Park.
With Lolo Creek running through the park, Travelers' Rest is an idyllic spot for strolling the park's trails, and offers a rich bird habitat, with more than 115 species recorded within the park boundaries. Be sure to stop at the Visitor's Center and Museum for a fascinating look at Lewis & Clark Expedition replicas, Salish culture, Native American hand crafts, a frontier Main Street, and more. The park also has a pavilion available for rent. Contact the park to make a reservation.
Travelers' Rest Connection is the park's cooperative managing organization. Interpretative programs are offered regularly in the summer, with special events promoted throughout the year.
Activities
Archaeology
Bicycling
Bird Watching
Children's Activities
Cultural
Education
Exhibits
Seasonal Fishing
Heritage
Hiking
History
Lewis And Clark History
Museum
Nature
Photography
Picnicking
Séliš-Ql̓ispé Tribal History
Sightseeing
Visitor Center
Wildlife Viewing
Amenities
Some amenities are seasonal. Check with the park for availability.
ADA Accessible
Childrens Activities
Gift Shop
Group Use Rentals
Interpretive Display
Maps
Parking
Pets Allowed
Picnic Shelter
Picnic Tables
Pack-in/Pack-out
Public Restroom
Registered Historic Site
Toilets (Flush)
Toilets (Vault)
Tours
Trash Cans
Water
Seasons & Hours
Hours listed below are normal operating hours and may not apply when there is a special restriction or closure. Check Alerts and Closures in the tab below.
Park
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily
Visitor Center
May 1 - September 30
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
October 1 - April 30
10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday
Closed Monday and Tuesday
The Park and Visitor Center are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year's Day
Montana residents who pay the $9 state parks fee with their annual vehicle registration have no daily entrance fees to state parks. For residents who don't include this in their vehicle registration, non-resident day use fees apply.
Nonresidents
Day use entrance fee with a vehicle: $8
Day use entrance fee as a walk-in, bicycle or bus passenger: $4
With a Nonresident Entrance Pass: Free
Alerts & Closures
Restrictions and Closures
See a current list of Restrictions and Closures on State Parks and other FWP lands that may be affected by floods, fire, drought or major maintenance activities.
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
Travelers' Rest State Park
PO Box 995
Lolo, MT 59847
Benjamin Dickinson began his career with Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks in 2013 as a Conservation Aid on the Alberton Gorge white water recreation corridor. In 2014, he became a seasonal Park Ranger for Missoula, MT-based state parks, receiving full-time employment in 2019. Ben received his B.S. in Parks Tourism and Recreation Management from the University of Montana in Missoula. Originally from Spokane, Washington, the outdoors have always been a part of Ben's life. Working with people in an outdoor setting has always been a passion, and he is excited to work in the Bitterroot Valley with its cultural and environmental resources.
CONTACT INFO Mailing Address:
PO Box 995
Lolo, MT 59847
