Bannack State Park in Montana: What You Need to Know (2023)
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Looking to visit Bannack State Park on your Montana road trip?
As one of the most beloved of the Montana state parks, Bannack has is a can’t-miss spot to see see if you are interested in the state’s history. As the site of the first major gold discovery in Montana, you can image a different time when Bannack’s bustling population made it the main town within the state.
I highly recommend checking Bannack out, as well as its sister ghost town of Virginia City. This can be a great day trip on your Yellowstone itinerary, or if you plan on taking a break from some of the Montana national parks and enjoying the Montana state parks instead.
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Bannack State Park: FAQs
Bannack State Park: FAQsHere are some frequently-asked questions I often get about visiting Bannack Ghost Town and State Park.
Map of Bannack State Park
Where is Bannack State Park?
Bannack State Park is a state park located in the southwestern area of Montana in the United States. It is situated in Beaverhead County, approximately 50 miles west of Dillon. The park is named after the former gold mining town of Bannack, which is now one of the Montana ghost towns.
Bannack State Park is known for its well-preserved historic displays and gold rush era artifacts, and it is a popular destination for visitors interested in the history of the American West. The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking, and it is open year-round.
How do I get to Bannack State Park?
To get to Bannack State Park, you can drive or fly to the city of Dillon, Montana, which is located approximately 50 miles east of the park. You can take Montana Highway 278 west from Dillon to reach the park. If you are flying, the nearest airport is the Bert Mooney Airport in Butte, Montana, which is about an hour’s drive from Dillon.
Alternatively, you can fly into the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, which is about two and a half hours from Dillon. You can rent a car from either of these airports, take a shuttle to Dillon, and then follow the directions above to reach Bannack State Park entrance road.
Are there any fees to visit Bannack State Park?
Bannack State Park charges an entrance fee and use of the park. Currently, the fee for a single day is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 6-17. Children under the age of 6 are admitted for free. The park also offers an annual pass for $20, which allows for unlimited visits to the park for a full year from the date of purchase.
Additionally, the park charges fees for camping, ranging from $10 for a basic campsite to $30 for a full-service campsite with electricity and water hookups. These fees are subject to change, so it is a good idea to check the park’s website or call ahead for the most current information.
When is the best time to visit Bannack State Park?
The best time to visit Bannack depends on your preferences and the type of activities you hope to enjoy. If you enjoy warmer weather and outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and fishing, the summer months of June through August may be the best time to visit. Temperatures during this time of year can range from the high 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit.
If you prefer cooler temperatures and enjoy the beauty of fall foliage, late September through early November may be a good time to visit. Winter can be cold in southwestern Montana, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s to the low 40s Fahrenheit, but the park can be a beautiful and peaceful place to visit during this time of year if you are prepared for the colder weather.
The most common times for visitors are during Memorial Day through Labor Day, which is also when the visitor center is open for summer hours.
What can I do in Bannack State Park?
Are you planning a visit to Bannack State Park in Montana? There are plenty of things to see and do at this historic state park! While you’re there, you can explore the well-preserved ghost town of Bannack, which was once a bustling gold mining town in the 1860s after a massive gold rush. Now, the deserted streets make for some interesting pictures and a chance to step back in time.
You can wander through the town’s historic log buildings, such as the courthouse, the hotel, the Methodist Church, and the schoolhouse, and learn about the history of the American West. Take time to learn more at the visitor center or the old cemetery. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at gold panning in the park’s streams on a guided tour.
The park also offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking to spend some time in the great outdoors, Bannack State Park has something for everyone.
Can I camp in Bannack State Park?
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Yes, you can camp at Bannack State Park in Montana! The park offers a variety of campsites for tent camping and small RVs. There are basic campsites with no amenities for $10 per night, as well as full-service campsites with electricity and water hookups for $30 per night and a group picnic site.
The park also has a dump station for RVs. Keep in mind that the park is located in southwestern Montana, so temperatures can be quite chilly, especially during the winter months.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Camping essentials”]Recommended tent: Marmot Tungsten 2 person ⛺
Recommended stove: Coleman Cascade 🔥
Recommended sleeping bag: REI Co-Op Downtime 😴
Recommended mess kit: Sea to Summit Delta Camp Set 🍽
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What do I need to know about having a campfire in Bannack State Park?
Yes, you can have campfires at Bannack State Park in Montana, but there are some restrictions and guidelines in place to ensure the safety of park visitors and protect the natural environment. Campfires are allowed in designated areas only, and they must be contained in a fire ring or grill. It is important to follow all posted rules and regulations regarding campfires and to never leave a fire unattended.
You should also be aware of any fire restrictions that may be in place due to dry conditions or other factors. Additionally, you should be prepared to properly extinguish your campfire before leaving the park.
Can I bring my dog to Bannack State Park?
Yes, you can bring a dog to Bannack State Park in Montana, but there are some restrictions in place to ensure the safety of all park visitors and protect the natural environment. Dogs are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in any buildings or on certain trails.
It is important to follow all posted rules and regulations regarding dogs at the park and to always clean up after your pet. Dogs are also not allowed in the park’s campsites, so if you are planning to stay overnight at the park, you will need to make arrangements elsewhere.
Bannack State Park Ghost Town
Bannack State Park is home to a ghost town of the same name, which was once a town in the 1860s. The town of Bannack was established in 1862 when gold was discovered in nearby Grasshopper Creek, and this swelled Bannack’s population into the largest town in the Montana Territory and the first territorial capital.
However, when the gold steadily dwindled, the entire town began to decline, and many of its residents left to seek their fortune elsewhere. Today, visitors can explore the town’s well-preserved historical buildings, including a courthouse, the formerly-plush Hotel Meade, and schoolhouse. They can can also learn about the history of the American West through exhibits and guided tours.
Bannack Days
Have you heard of Bannack Days? It’s an annual event held at Bannack State Park in Montana by the Bannack Association to celebrate the history of the gold rush era. During Bannack Days, the park is filled with all sorts of fun and educational special events for visitors of all ages, usually on the third weekend in July. You can watch living history demonstrations, listen to lectures from local historians, and participate in gold panning and other hands-on activities.
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Hiking trails in Bannack State Park
With several hiking trails to choose from in Bannack State Park, it can be difficult to choose the most suitable ones for you! Below are three great trails you should definitely check out on your Montana road trip.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Hiking essentials”]Recommended hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-tex 🥾
Recommended jacket: The North Face Antora Jacket 🧥
Recommended hiking poles: Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles 🌲
Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack 🎒
Hike like a pro: Get an AllTrails Pro membership! 🗺
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Bannack Ghost Town
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 miles
Elevation gain: 154 feet
This hiking trail takes you through the historic ghost town of Bannack, Montana, which was once a thriving gold mining community in the 1860s. The town was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1961, and today it offers a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the history of the gold rush era.
The trail takes you past old buildings and ruins down main street, including the Bannack School, the Masonic Lodge, and the old jail. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Birds Eye View Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation gain: 646 feet
This moderate loop trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Beaverhead Mountains and the Bannack Valley. The trail is about 2.5 miles long and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including open meadows, forests, and rocky outcroppings. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, mule deer, and elk. The trail is suitable for hikers of moderate skill levels and offers a moderate level of difficulty.
Hendricks Lode Mine Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.7 miles
Elevation gain: 242 feet
This trail takes you to the site of an old gold mine, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic mining equipment and structures, including a stamp mill and an old mine shaft. The trail is about 2 miles long and is suitable for experienced hikers who are comfortable with steep terrain and rocky trails. The trail offers a chance to learn about the history of gold mining in the area and to see the remains of the mining operations that once thrived in the area.
Where to stay near Bannack Ghost Town
Here are some of my recommended options of hotels near Bannack that you might want to check out for your adventure.
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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM DILLON⭐
⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: QUALITY INN DILLON⭐
⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: FAIRBRIDGE INN EXPRESS DILLON⭐
⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: BEAVERHEAD LODGE⭐
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Tips for visiting Bannack Ghost Town
Here are some tips I recommend for those who want to visit Bannack!
- Prepare for the weather: Montana’s weather can be quite unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Make sure to pack for all types of weather, including rain and potential sudden temperature drops, even in the summer. During the winter, Bannack State Park can become very cold, so bundle up accordingly.
- History first: Bannack State Park is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the United States, a living testament to the Gold Rush era. Be sure to visit the Bannack Historic District and take the self-guided tour of the town. The historical buildings, like the old hotel and schoolhouse, offer a unique perspective on the life of the pioneers.
- Wildlife awareness: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, such as mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species. Keep your distance and respect their space. Also, it’s always a good idea to carry bear spray and know how to use it, just in case.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the park and its history by leaving no trace. Do not remove any historical artifacts or items from the ghost town. Follow the trail signs and keep off any structures, as they can be fragile due to their age.
- Camping preparations: If you’re planning to camp, note that the Bannack State Park’s campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, so arrive early for the best spots. The campground has basic facilities, but be prepared for a rustic experience. Fire restrictions can also be in place, depending on the time of year and current fire danger levels, so plan your meals accordingly.
Conclusion: Bannack State Park
Bannack State Park in Montana offers more than your average park visit. The preserved ghost town and hiking trails provide a practical insight into the state’s gold rush history and natural landscape. Overall, it’s a interesting, and enjoyable spot for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Have you been to Bannack State Park? Let me know your experience in the comments!
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