The Gist Bottom Boat Camp in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, gives the Lewis and Clark enthusiast an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of William Clark. On May 26, 1805, he ascended the high river hills—perhaps in the vicinity of Snake Point near 47.8265, -108.9717—to view the Rocky Mountains.
The abandoned Gist family ranch is near the campsite, and the Bullwhacker Creek drainage provides a variety of hiking opportunities.
This popular campsite has two fire rings, but no other amenities, and portable toilet regulations are in affect. The Bureau of Land Management or your outfitter guide can assist with this and other logistical details of your trip. The two BLM Boaters’ Guide booklets are essential for anyone planning a self-supported trip through the breaks:
American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground, DY Junction, MT, USA
Distance: 14.46 mi (straight line)
RV and Camping Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes
View Listing
James Kipp Campground, Winifred, MT, USA
Distance: 19.51 mi (straight line)
RV and Camping Outdoor Experiences
View Listing
85VHJ8PG+VG
Distance: 19.56 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Viewpoints
View Listing
W9V6+CG Hays, MT, USA
Distance: 20.07 mi (straight line)
Festivals and Events Tribal Experiences
View Listing
Lodge Pole, MT, USA
Distance: 27.57 mi (straight line)
Festivals and Events Tribal Experiences
View Listing
85VGP9JR+48
Distance: 27.96 mi (straight line)
Lodging Outdoor Experiences Viewpoints
View Listing
Judith Landing Campground, Big Sandy, MT, USA
Distance: 28.70 mi (straight line)
Lewis & Clark Camp, Big Sandy, MT, USA
Distance: 39.09 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences RV and Camping LC Features
View Listing
Bear Paw Battlefield - Nez Perce, Chinook, MT, USA
Distance: 40.73 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes Tribal Experiences
View Listing
Fort Belknap Pow-Wow, Fort Belknap Agency, MT 59526, USA
Distance: 47.77 mi (straight line)
Festivals and Events Tribal Experiences
View Listing
Fort Belknap Pow-Wow, Harlem, MT, USA
Distance: 47.77 mi (straight line)
Tribal Experiences Festivals and Events
View Listing
85VFWW7R+VQ
Distance: 48.92 mi (straight line)
LC Features Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes Viewpoints RV and Camping
View Listing
XVPP+8W Coal Banks Landing, MT, USA
Distance: 52.36 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Viewpoints
View Listing
302 W Main St Lewistown, MT 59457
Distance: 54.35 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers
View Listing
85VJH458+QX
Distance: 55.32 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes
View Listing
Blaine County Museum, Indiana Street, Chinook, Blaine County, MT, USA
Distance: 55.43 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers
View Listing
Buffalo Camp, Malta, MT, USA
Distance: 57.71 mi (straight line)
RV and Camping Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes
View ListingOur bi-weekly newsletter provides news, history, and information for those interested in traveling along along the Lewis & Clark Trail.