Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is home to one of the most spectacular limestone cave systems in the Northwest, tucked into the foothills above the Jefferson River in southwestern Montana. Spanning 2,920 acres of rugged terrain in Jefferson County, the park draws visitors underground to explore a network of chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and delicate helictites formed over millions of years.

Guided cave tours are the main attraction, ranging from the classic two-hour walking tour through narrow passages and grand rooms to a more adventurous “Paradise Tour” that ventures deeper into less-visited sections. Above ground, the park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails with sweeping views of the Jefferson River valley, plus opportunities for mountain biking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. Keep an eye out for mule deer, golden eagles, and the occasional rattlesnake on the sun-warmed slopes.

The park’s campground sits at elevation with sites for tents and RVs, along with cabins and a tipi for those who prefer a roof overhead. Facilities are well-maintained, and the camp store covers the basics.

The best time to visit is late May through September, when cave tours are running and the weather cooperates for hiking. Summer weekends fill up fast — book cave tours and campsites early. Shoulder months like May and September offer smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, which actually make the hike to the cave entrance more comfortable.

Bring layers; it’s a constant 50°F inside the caverns regardless of the season.

Explore Nearby

• Axolotl Lakes — Public Land
• Garnet Winter Trails — Public Land in Montana
• Beaverhead–Deerlodge National Forest — National Forest in Montana
• Gallatin National Forest — National Forest in Montana
• Pioneer Historic Byway — Scenic Byway in Idaho