Fort Owen State Park is the site of many "firsts" in Montana history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
It was home to Montana's first Catholic church founded by Father DeSmet in 1841, and the state's first permanent white settlement. Also located here was Montana's first sawmill, first grist mill, first agricultural development, first water right, and the first school for settlers.
Major John Owen arrived in the Bitterroot Valley in 1850 and established the fort and began trading with the Indians and the growing number of immigrants.
Period furnishings and artifacts are displayed in the restored rooms of the east barracks. Take your time to browse the interpretive signs and exhibits that detail the state park's history.
Fort Owen State Park is 1.9 acres in size and sits at an elevation of 3,398 feet.
Some amenities are seasonal. Check with the park for availability.
- Interpretive Display
- Pets Allowed
- Pack-in/Pack-out
- Toilets (Vault)
Hours listed below are normal operating hours and may not apply when there is a special restriction or closure. Check Alerts and Closures in the tab below.
Park
March 1 - October 31: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily
November 1 - February 28: Closed for the Winter
Contact the park manager for open volunteer positions at Fort Owen State Park.
For complete position descriptions, application forms, and details about Montana State Parks volunteer programs, visit the Volunteers page.
Mailing Address:
Fort Owen State Park
PO Box 995
Lolo, MT 59847
Phone: 406-273-4253
Email: Maci.MacPherson@mt.gov