How to Hunt the Missouri Headwaters State Park in Montana This Fall

There are certain areas across the state of Montana that hold some of the best wildlife possible.  And with hunting season coming up quickly, hunters are looking for not just meat, but maybe a trophy mount to have hanging in their home.

via GIPHY

One of those unique places is coming open to the public, and to get access, hunters will have new access to a new lottery system for managing hunting access at Missouri Headwaters State Park, near Three Forks, Montana.

Get our free mobile app

How to Hunt the Missouri Headwaters State Park in Montana This Fall

Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) have seen an uptick in interest in hunting at the state park in recent years and have been working to formulate a plan that would work with both hunters and with the general public visiting the popular area.

Akchamczuk

READ MORE:  This is a Crazy New Way Cyber Criminals are Trying to Get Your Personal Information

Beginning this upcoming 2026 hunting season, hunters will be able to apply through the new lottery reservation system.  Online applications will be accepted for the lottery each Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. from August 26, 2026, to January 6, 2027.  Applications are available online through MFWP here (beginning on Aug. 26).

Certain Rules Apply to the Lottery with Various Hunting Restrictions at State Park

Hunters wishing to hunt the Missouri Headwaters State Park must complete the online application; if successfully drawn, winners will be notified via email with details including hunting rules, a map with safety zones, and a tag for their vehicle.

KiraVolkov

MFWP said that other hunting rules would apply, including "a weapons restriction and a safety closure near park facilities. Upland bird hunting will be limited to a certain portion of the park, while deer and waterfowl hunting will be open in additional areas."  Read more about the lottery here.