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Bannack

State Park on Grasshopper Creek

Region 3 | Gold West Country

Gold Panning - Striking it rich at Bannack Days, Bannack State Park.

Wagon Ride at Bannack State Park - Old West tour of Bannack during Bannack Days.

Bannack State Park - Boardwalk leading up to the church at Bannack State Park.

Bannack Law Enforcement - FWP Enforcement officer chatting with visitors at Bannack State Park.

Meade Hotel - Historic Meade Hotel in Bannack State Park, MT

Bannack Schoolhouse and Masonic Temple - Schoolhouse and Masonic Temple at Bannack State Park.

Skinners Saloon - The once very popular Skinners Saloon in Bannack State Park.

Bannack Church - Church in Bannack State Park.

Bannack Jail - The first jail in Montana at Bannack State Park.

Bannack Church - View of the Church at Bannack State Park.

Bannack Masonic Temple - The Masonic Temple and schoolhouse at Bannack state park with a picturesque sunset in the background.

Knoll House - Knoll House at Bannack State Park.

Old west wagon - An old abandoned wagon rests at Bannack State Park.

Meade Hotel - Meade Hotel in Bannack State Park near Dillon.

Bannack State Park - Winter scene out of the church at Bannack State Park.

Meade Hotel - Sun setting on the historic Meade Hotel at Bannack State Park.

Bannack Days - Dressing the part during Bannack Days at Bannack State Park.

Park Map

Location Map

Parcel Map


Open:	Jan 1 - Dec 31
Size:	1529 acres
Elevation:	5837 ft
Nearest Town:	Dillon

Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. This strike set off a massive gold rush that swelled Bannack's population to over 3,000 by 1863. As the value of gold steadily dwindled, Bannack's bustling population was slowly snuffed out. Over 50 buildings line Main Street; their historic log and frame structures recall Montana's formative years. A walk down the deserted streets of Bannack evokes a feeling of the realities faced in the 'Old West.' Bannack is the best preserved of all Montana ghost towns -- being preserved rather than restored, protected rather than exploited.

Bannack Days, with historic displays, re-enactors, and activities, is held the third weekend in July each year. Tours are conducted from the visitor center, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A rental tipi is located in the campground situated along Grasshopper Creek.

For more information about Bannack State Park, read Spirit of the West, 2003 Montana Outdoors article. Also visit www.bannack.org for historical information and trip planning tips.

Check out the current weather conditions in Dillon. Teachers, this Indian Education For All Lesson Plan contains Social Studies and Science content for 4th graders.

Fees

Bannack State Park is located on Grasshopper Creek 17 miles from the mouth . Bannack is the only access site along Grasshopper Creek maintained by FWP.

Directions

Bannack State Park is located in the southwestern area of Montana. Take I-15 south of Dillon to exit #59 (Highway 278 exit.) Drive west on Highway 278 for 18 miles. Turn south onto the Bannack Road and travel four miles. Park entrance road will be on the left hand side.
(Lat 45.162, Lng -112.999)

Contact Information

If you have questions or comments please send mail to: Bannack, 721 Bannack Rd Dillon, MT 59725 or call (406) 834-3413 .

Restrictions & Closures

Pet Restriction: Leash required.

Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 days allowed.

Vehicle Length: Combined Length of unit is 35 ft.

Activities

Fishing
Camping
Picnicking
Bicycling
Horseshoes
Volley Ball
Group Use
Hiking
Horseback Riding - Bring your own horse.
Wildlife Viewing
Interpretive Programs
Tours
Photography
Cultural Events

Campground

Camp Host
Campground
Group Site
Tent Site
Tent/RV Site
Tipi - More information about tipi rentals.

Miscellaneous

Firewood
Meeting Room
Museum
Visitor Center

Other Recreation

Horseshoe Pit - Horseshoes available for rent

Picnic Site

Fire Ring
Grill (Ring)
Group Use - Unsheltered
Picnic Table

RV/Trailer

Hookup (Electric - 50 Amp) - Camp host site only.

Sanitation/Water

Drinking Water
Garbage Bins
Toilet (Vault)
Water (Pump)

Wildlife Viewing

These locations represent physical occurrences (visually confirmed) within the boundaries of the site. Many more species may be present in the area which are not listed because we do not have a visually confirmed record. If you would like to report a species sighting, a form is available.