On August 9, 1877, gunshots shattered a chilly dawn on a sleeping camp of nımí·pu· (Nez Perce). By the time the smoke cleared on August 10, almost 90 nımí·pu· were dead, along with 31 soldiers and volunteers. Big Hole National Battlefield was created to honor all who were there.
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe grounds and trails at Big Hole National Battlefield are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 4066893155 · biho_visitor_information@nps.gov
Big Hole National Battlefield is located on Highway 43 ten miles west of the town of Wisdom in southwestern Montana. Bear Paw Battlefield is located on Route 240 sixteen miles south of the town of Chinook in north-central Montana.
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Big Hole National Battlefield — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Big Hole National Battlefield?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Big Hole National Battlefield?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Nez Perce Camp Trail, Siege Area Trail. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
The grounds and trails at Big Hole National Battlefield are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Nearby sites
Tower Rock Recreation Site
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Morgan Bar Recreation Site
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.