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Giant Springs State Park

Great Falls, MT

Nature

A large freshwater spring that flows into the Missouri River, with a short riverside path and a fish hatchery visitor area. Walk the paved path along the river and stop at the viewpoints, which suit a relaxed hour.

According to the park authority, the spring in Giant Springs State Park discharges about 156 million gallons of water per day (roughly 590 million liters) and stays at a constant 54 °F (12 °C) all year. It flows into the Missouri River; the Lewis and Clark expedition discovered it in 1805. The park is also home to the Roe River, which was once listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world's shortest river.

The park is day-use only, with no camping, and is open from sunrise to sunset. There is a fish hatchery with a visitor center, the Rivers Edge Trail, picnic areas and the Rainbow Falls overlook. In winter steam rises from the ice-free water, and in summer it is cooler here than in Great Falls. Allow about one to two hours; the nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center makes a good addition.

Nearest town
Great Falls, MT
Category
Nature & parks
GPS
47.5330, -111.2160

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. Cold, short days in December–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Sources

Nearby

Campsites nearby

  • Motorhome stopover · Great FallsMotorhome stopover
    2 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes
  • Gateway FamCampMotorhome stopover
    2 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes
  • KOA Great FallsMotorhome stopover
    3 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes
  • Ann Thornton Memorial RV ParkMotorhome stopover
    5 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes
  • Dick's RV ParkMotorhome stopover
    6 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes
  • Red Sky Mobile Home & RV ParkMotorhome stopover
    16 mi from Giant Springs State Park
    Motorhomes

All campsites in Montana · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Giant Springs State Park?

Giant Springs State Park is in Great Falls, MT, at GPS 47.5330, -111.2160. It is about 32 mi from Fort Benton.

Can you camp near Giant Springs State Park?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Gateway FamCamp, about 2 mi away; within 25 mi there are 6 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

What is there to see near Giant Springs State Park?

Places worth a stop nearby: Montana State Capitol (76 mi), Museum of the Plains Indian (109 mi) and Two Medicine Lake (119 mi).

When is the best time to visit Giant Springs State Park?

The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

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