There are over eight million acres of BLM (Bureau of Land Management) or public domain lands in Montana. Numerous tracts are located throughout the state. Access
to the areas is not always easy, roads are sometimes in poor condition, and printed literature is not available for many of the units.
Included on these lands are some major mountains, and 149 miles of the Missouri River, a National Wild and Scenic River which is also a segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. There’s one designated wilderness area, the
6,000-acre Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, with a stretch of the Madison River.
Activities: Hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding are possible on BLM lands, but most travel must be cross-country, as there are very few established trails. Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting are available on some of the rivers. Hunting and fishing are permitted in season.
Camping Regulations: Except for a few restricted areas and where posted otherwise, camping and campfires are freely allowed on these lands. Permits are not necessary for most locations.
For Further Information: Bureau of Land Management, 222 North 32nd Street, P.O. Box 36800, Billings, MT 59107; (406)255-2885.
