Upper Missouri River Guides

02/20/2026

Wow. What an incredible photo and piece of history!

This is a great old photo from the Power Family Collection of the Block P Steamboats Black Hills, Butte and Helena iced in, possibly at Yankton, South Dakota the winter of 1881. The Black Hills first arrival at Fort Benton in 1882. On June 27, 1883 under Captain Josephus Todd she unloaded freight at Fort Benton in 14 hours and lit out for Bismarck where she arrived 2 days, 22 hours later. A record. The Butte was launched in April 1879. The third boat of the Block P Line, she made 25 trips to Montana in the Missouri service. The Helena’s first trip to Fort Benton was made in 1878. In the next 10 years she made over 50 trips to Montana. On May 6, 1884, she was the first spring arrival at the fort, arriving a week ahead of any others.

01/30/2026

I spy a baby turtle!

01/27/2026

Magnificent formations abound in the White Cliffs. A short off-river hike will open a separate world of exploration and discovery. One can start to imagine the wonder experienced by the Corps of Discovery as they also traversed off the river to gather observations.

01/24/2026

An immature Bald Eagle perched on it's family home at Greasewood Bottom. If you are a fan of raptors, the population in this corridor has exploded recently.

01/23/2026

The Hole in the Wall formation is framed by the arching sun glow in the distance. When we spend the night at this campsite, we offer the opportunity to hike all the way up to the actual Hole in the Wall. It's definitely a fan favorite.

01/20/2026

If reside in a place where lights prevent star gazing, then you should make a plan to spend a few nights on the Missouri River with us. This region is noted on the Dark Skies Map. We've included the full moon dates on our schedule so you have choose a trip opposite of the bright full moon.

01/17/2026

Another difference between the Badlands and the White Cliffs sections is the presence of a robust Bighorn Sheep population. The White Cliffs simply do not boast the proper topography, so they are concentrated in the Badlands. We especially love when they come down to drink from the river across from camp.

01/14/2026

Not many groups stay at Hideaway camp. The landing is usually difficult with mud and a steep, long gear haul, but it's usually worth it. The cottonwood grove is the healthiest and most vibrant on the entire river. Our favorite professional birder, Rob, said once in reference to the sound of the birds one crisp, foggy morning in late May, "It's louder and more diverse than some jungles I've been in." I will never forget that!

01/12/2026

We are always exploring. We love opportunities to go slow, soak in the wonder of nature and, hopefully, discover an unearthed treasure.

01/10/2026

Stunning riverside camping and exploring. The White Cliffs are famous and not to be missed, but the Badlands section is magnificent and absolutely breathtaking. You must see it one day even if you have to do separate trips.

01/08/2026

Hello 2026! We have been enjoying the holiday chaos but are excited for a reset and winter play if we ever get snow. We can't help but pine for the magnificence of the Missouri River. We will see you soon ol friend.

11/24/2025

The slot canyon behind Eagle Creek is a fan favorite for sure and one of the most surprisingly incredible off-river hikes. It also offers a shady and cool reprieve from the heat of the summer.