🌤 Weather at Bannack State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18–60 °F | 39–81 °F | 15–69 °F | 6–32 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Dillon 18 Wsw, 0 mi away, elevation 5,971 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Established in 1954, Bannack State Park is a historic park located in southwestern Montana, about an hour and 20 minutes from Butte.
Covering an area of 1,345 acres, it is centered around the ghost town of Bannack, which was once a thriving gold rush town and served as Montana’s first territorial capital.
Today, Bannack State Park is a popular tourist destination that provides a unique window into the state’s rich and fascinating history. Visitors can explore the town’s well-preserved historic structures, including original log cabins, the old jail, and the hotel.
The park also has a museum that provides information on the history of the town and the gold rush era, as well as a self-guided walking tour that highlights many of the park’s key sites and structures.
In addition to its rich history, Bannack State Park also offers a range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. All of which make this fabulous Montana state park a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the region.
Activities
Bannack State Park provides guests with several ways to enjoy its enchanting surroundings.
Outlined below is a selection of some of the main recreational activities you can do during your visit there.
Ghost Town at Bannack State Park
The historic ghost town of Bannack is one of the park’s main attractions.
Established in 1862, this once thriving gold rush town, is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the American West.
Many of the original buildings still stand, including log cabins, the old jail, the hotel, and other historic structures.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the town and see what life was like during the gold rush era.
Museum at Bannack State Park
The park also has a museum that provides information on the history of the town and the gold rush.
The museum is housed in a restored log cabin and showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the town and the gold rush era.
It also provides information about the preservation and restoration of the historic structures in the park, and about the history of the area and its residents.
Visitors can learn about the people who lived in Bannack, the challenges they faced, and the impact of the gold rush on the area.
The museum provides a deeper understanding of the history of Bannack and the American West, and is a great place for history buffs and visitors who want to learn more about the area.
Fishing at Bannack State Park
Bannack State Park is located along the Beaverhead River, which is known for its excellent fishing opportunities for species such as rainbow, brook, and brown trout.
Visitors can fish from the riverbank, or rent a raft or kayak to explore the river and fish in the more remote areas.
A valid Montana fishing license is required before you can cast a line at Bannack State Park. If you don’t have one, they can be purchased at the park office.
The park also offers guided fishing trips with experienced guides, which is a great option for visitors who are new to fishing or want to improve their skills.
Hiking at Bannack State Park
Bannack State Park offers several hiking trails for visitors to explore.
The trails range in difficulty and length, so there is something for everyone, from short nature walks to challenging hikes.
One of the most popular trails is Bannack State Park Trail. This 1.5-mile loop trail takes visitors through the historic ghost town and past several of the park’s most significant buildings, including the Bannack School, the jail, and the courthouse.
In addition, the Beaverhead River Trail takes you on a 3.5-mile course that follows the Beaverhead River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
All of the trails at Bannack State Park are well-marked and maintained, and visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and historic sites.
Birding at Bannack State Park
Birding is a popular activity at Bannack State Park.
The park is located in a scenic, rural area with a diverse landscape, providing habitats for a variety of bird species.
Some of the common bird species that can be seen at the park include Western Bluebirds, Mountain Bluebirds, Woodpeckers, and Warblers.
Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars and bird identification guides to help them spot and identify different bird species.
The park also offers a variety of trails, including a designated bird-watching trail, that allow visitors to explore different habitats and observe birds in their natural environment.
Pets at Bannack State Park
Pets are allowed at Bannack State Park (Bannack park page). Montana State Parks rules apply: keep your pet on a leash no longer than 8 feet or otherwise physically restrained, unless a posted rule says otherwise, and don’t let it dig, chase or harass wildlife or other visitors, or create a nuisance. Pets other than service animals are not allowed in park buildings, on swimming beaches, on designated ski trails during ski season or in any area posted to exclude them, and you must pick up after your pet. In the campground, don’t leave your pet unattended (Montana State Parks pet rules, ARM 12.8.808, as of October 2026).
Camping at Bannack State Park
For those interested in camping, the park provides an excellent base to enjoy the historic ghost town and natural beauty of the area.
Overall its campground has 31 standard campsites. All of which have picnic tables, fire pits, and access to potable water and flush toilets. Some of the campsites have electric hookups as well.
Additionally, the park offers 2 group campsites that can accommodate up to 20 people each.
As this park does get busy during the summer, visitors are encouraged to make a reservation well in advance of their visit.
Park Location
Bannack State Park
4200 Bannack Road
Dillon, MT 59725
Phone: 406.834.3413
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Bannack State Park:
Explore More Montana State Parks
Bannack State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Montana. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Montana guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbor is Clark's Lookout State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Bannack State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed at most Montana state parks but must be leashed and not left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 8 feet required, unless otherwise posted.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and posted restricted areas.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Frenchtown Pond and Wild Horse Island; kennel service offered during Lewis and Clark Caverns tours; Spring Meadow Lake no pets April 16 - October 14; Lake Elmo has a fenced dog park.
Are dogs allowed at Bannack State Park?
Pets are allowed at most Montana state parks but must be leashed and not left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via fwp.mt.gov. More: Montana state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Bannack State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Big Sky
from $1,999
from $350
from $1,999