5.0
Public Campground
1st Dredge Shelters
Montana
Federal campground in Montana.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Decision Point Overlook
Located near Loma in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, Decision Point Overlook offers a short walk to a ridge with sweeping views of the confluence of the Marias and Missouri rivers — one of the most consequential stops of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Today, the ridge is known for abundant prickly pear cactus, which produce showy blooms in spring, as well as the sword‑like Great Plains yucca.Decision Point sits less than a mile southeast of U.S. Highway 87. From the parki
Located near Loma in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, Decision Point Overlook offers a short walk to a ridge with sweeping views of the confluence of the Marias and Missouri rivers — one of the most consequential stops of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Today, the ridge is known for abundant prickly pear cactus, which produce showy blooms in spring, as well as the sword‑like Great Plains yucca.Decision Point sits less than a mile southeast of U.S. Highway 87. From the parking area, a ¼‑mile trail climbs moderately to the ridge above the confluence. Interpretive panels at the parking lot and the overlook share stories of the town of Ophir, Fort Piegan, and the Corps of Discovery’s encampment at the site. Boaters can access the overlook by landing river left immediately after floating under the Loma Bridge, then hiking about a ½‑mile up the county road to the parking area.History highlight: On June 2, 1805, the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery arrived at this overlook and spent several days determining which river to follow west. While most of the crew believed the right fork — the Marias — was the true Missouri, further exploration led the captains to conclude that the south fork — the Missouri — was the correct route. Lewis subsequently named the north fork Maria’s River after his cousin, Maria Wood; over time, the apostrophe was dropped and the river became known as the Marias.Their choice proved correct. After a 10‑day encampment at Decision Point, the Expedition continued up the Missouri toward the Great Falls, and beyond to the Pacific and an enduring place in the story of American history.Hours and SeasonsOpen year‑round. Features and ServicesAccess and Parking: The parking lot is gravel/dirt. It is large enough to accommodate oversized vehicles.Cell Service: Coverage across the Monument can be limited, with little to no reliable cell service in many areas—plan accordingly. Toilets: None available at the parking area or overlook.Drinking Water: No water is available on‑site; please bring your own.Pets: Leashed pets are welcome – please pack out waste.Camping: Day‑use only at the overlook. For nearby camping and a boat launch on the Missouri, consider Wood Bottom Recreation Area – about 1–2 miles from Loma – with a gravel boat ramp and vault toilet. Nearby Attractions and Amenities: Fort Benton offers food, gas, lodging, medical facilities, and the Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center – your best stop for trip planning, maps, river conditions, and exhibits.Respect and ProtectBy practicing responsible outdoor ethics, you help ensure future visitors can enjoy this remarkable site.
4.9
Rating
28
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
This area is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Montana weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for the area.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near the park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Decision Point Overlook Reviews
Sign in to Review
G
MARK
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by MARK
This is a beautiful place. There are many interpretive signs with great stories. The short hike to the top of the hill is worth it. It is easy to imagine being on the LC expedition and seeing this for the first time. If you are interested in documenting the area with Chronolog, the sites are up on the hill. There is a campground not far away and it is right on the Missouri River.
G
MARK
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by MARK
This is a beautiful place. There are many interpretive signs with great stories. The short hike to the top of the hill is worth it. It is easy to imagine being on the LC expedition and seeing this for the first time. If you are interested in documenting the area with Chronolog, the sites are up on the hill. There is a campground not far away and it is right on the Missouri River.
G
MARK
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by MARK
This is a beautiful place. There are many interpretive signs with great stories. The short hike to the top of the hill is worth it. It is easy to imagine being on the LC expedition and seeing this for the first time. If you are interested in documenting the area with Chronolog, the sites are up on the hill. There is a campground not far away and it is right on the Missouri River.
G
MARK
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by MARK
This is a beautiful place. There are many interpretive signs with great stories. The short hike to the top of the hill is worth it. It is easy to imagine being on the LC expedition and seeing this for the first time. If you are interested in documenting the area with Chronolog, the sites are up on the hill. There is a campground not far away and it is right on the Missouri River.
G
Sheryl Mowry
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sheryl Mowry
Wonderful place to visit. Your imagination can fill in details of what it might have been when L & C first arrived.
G
Sheryl Mowry
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sheryl Mowry
Wonderful place to visit. Your imagination can fill in details of what it might have been when L & C first arrived.
G
Sheryl Mowry
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sheryl Mowry
Wonderful place to visit. Your imagination can fill in details of what it might have been when L & C first arrived.
G
Sheryl Mowry
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sheryl Mowry
Wonderful place to visit. Your imagination can fill in details of what it might have been when L & C first arrived.
G
Bill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Bill
It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River.... It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River. Beautiful prickly pear cactus were in full bloom. The trail takes you to a number of informative kiosks. The town of Loma sits a short distance to the north. The Loma Ferry Bridge across the Missouri River is about a mile south on gravel. From this high vantage "point"you can see the Bear Paw Mountains to the northwest and Highwood Mountains to the southwest as well. Absolutely stunning!
G
Bill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Bill
It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River.... It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River. Beautiful prickly pear cactus were in full bloom. The trail takes you to a number of informative kiosks. The town of Loma sits a short distance to the north. The Loma Ferry Bridge across the Missouri River is about a mile south on gravel. From this high vantage "point"you can see the Bear Paw Mountains to the northwest and Highwood Mountains to the southwest as well. Absolutely stunning!
G
Bill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Bill
It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River.... It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River. Beautiful prickly pear cactus were in full bloom. The trail takes you to a number of informative kiosks. The town of Loma sits a short distance to the north. The Loma Ferry Bridge across the Missouri River is about a mile south on gravel. From this high vantage "point"you can see the Bear Paw Mountains to the northwest and Highwood Mountains to the southwest as well. Absolutely stunning!
G
Bill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Bill
It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River.... It's simply breath taking, and a very important place for Corps of Discovery history. Lots of parking and vault restrooms. A short gravel trail leads to the top, or around the point one can view by trail the Corps of Discovery camp. At the top of ridge and crest of a steep cliff, I seen the darker Marias River slowly meander from the northwest to meet the more grayish waters of the Missouri River. Beautiful prickly pear cactus were in full bloom. The trail takes you to a number of informative kiosks. The town of Loma sits a short distance to the north. The Loma Ferry Bridge across the Missouri River is about a mile south on gravel. From this high vantage "point"you can see the Bear Paw Mountains to the northwest and Highwood Mountains to the southwest as well. Absolutely stunning!
G
Kristine Murray
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kristine Murray
Thank you for providing this overlook site to acknowledge a turning point in US history. Good gravel path, parking, no restrooms or water.
G
Kristine Murray
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kristine Murray
Thank you for providing this overlook site to acknowledge a turning point in US history. Good gravel path, parking, no restrooms or water.
G
Kristine Murray
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kristine Murray
Thank you for providing this overlook site to acknowledge a turning point in US history. Good gravel path, parking, no restrooms or water.
G
Anthony Imbrogno
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Anthony Imbrogno
Worth a 20 minute drive from Fort Benton to climb the viewpoint like the explorers did and see the river confluence.
G
Anthony Imbrogno
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Anthony Imbrogno
Worth a 20 minute drive from Fort Benton to climb the viewpoint like the explorers did and see the river confluence.
G
Anthony Imbrogno
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Anthony Imbrogno
Worth a 20 minute drive from Fort Benton to climb the viewpoint like the explorers did and see the river confluence.
G
Anthony Imbrogno
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Anthony Imbrogno
Worth a 20 minute drive from Fort Benton to climb the viewpoint like the explorers did and see the river confluence.
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