From April 28, 2025, the visitor center is open Friday to Sunday, 8 am to 4 pm. Before then, it’s open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
Entrance fees at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument are $25 for a private vehicle, $20 for a motorcycle, and $15 per person. Children under 16 enter free. Annual passes and discounted America the Beautiful passes are also available.
From Billings, take Interstate I-90 east to Exit 510 at Junction 212, then turn right onto Battlefield Tour Road, immersing yourself in the historic landscapes of southeastern Montana.
Parking is available at the visitor center, Custer Battlefield, and Reno-Benteen Battlefield. Oversized vehicles and large RVs are not permitted in the visitor center lot due to construction. Handicapped parking is available at all three locations. No overnight parking. Parking is free.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, situated in the heart of south-central Montana, is a site of profound historical and natural beauty. This monument preserves the grounds of the pivotal Battle of the Little Bighorn, fought on June 25-26, 1876, along the winding Little Bighorn River. The landscape is a tapestry of rugged bluffs, dissected uplands, and expansive plains, punctuated by the gentle flow of the river.
As you drive the 4.5-mile tour road, the terrain unfolds with a mix of rolling hills and steep ravines, each holding secrets of the past. The air is filled with the songs of meadowlarks and the rustle of prairie grasses swaying in the breeze. Visit Last Stand Hill, where a granite monument stands as a testament to the battle, surrounded by marble markers that mark the final resting places of soldiers.
In the spring, wildflowers burst into color, painting the prairie with vibrant hues. Summer brings warmth and the occasional thunderstorm, while autumn dresses the landscape in golden tones. Winter blankets the area in a serene silence, with snow-covered hills and frozen riverbanks.
For those seeking more than just a historical visit, the nearby town of Crow Agency offers insights into Native American culture. The Reno-Benteen entrenchment, where 350 7th Cavalry soldiers took refuge, is another must-see stop. Local outfitters provide guided tours, including ranger-led walks and horseback rides that delve into the rich history and ecology of the area.
Special events include memorial services and reenactments that bring the history alive. The Indian Memorial, built near Last Stand Hill, honors the Native American tribes involved in the battle. Whether you are drawn to history, nature, or cultural experiences, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument offers a deeply immersive and enriching journey through one of America’s most significant historical sites.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.2
- Annual visitors
- 400 000
- Established year
- 1879
Top 3 Facts about Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
The battle site includes the Lone Teepee, a landmark where Custer gave Reno final orders, and it was here that Indians were seen, prompting Custer to assume he had been discovered, marking a critical point in the battle’s sequence, located along the 7th Cavalry’s march route.
In this Montana wilderness, mule deer and bighorn sheep roam freely, while coyotes, red foxes, and raccoons add to the diverse mammal population. Over 25 terrestrial mammal species, including bats and prairie voles, inhabit the area. The landscape is dotted with sagebrush and grasses, a staple for mountain cottontails. Though rarely seen, reptiles and amphibians thrive in the riparian zones, enriching the ecosystem with their presence. This natural tapestry, intertwined with historical significance, offers a unique immersion in both nature and history.
This landscape, part of the Missouri Plateau, is characterized by eroded uplifts and terraced lands segmented by numerous streams. The bedrock, primarily shale and sandstone from the Upper Cretaceous Period, was formed in a shallow sea that once inundated the area. The terrain features ridges dissected by ravines and coulees, offering defensible high ground and scenic vistas across the broad valley, all set against a backdrop of gravelly soils in hues of yellowish to ash gray, at an elevation of about 2,750 feet above sea level.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in late summer to coincide with the Crow Fair Powwow & Parade Celebration. Arrive early, park near the visitor center, and attend a ranger talk. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes for trails, and eat in nearby Hardin or Billings as on-site options are limited. Anticipate variable weather and rest often.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Avoid feeding or approaching animals. Keep pets controlled. Respect nesting sites and avoid disturbing flora. Drive cautiously, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Leave the area as you found it.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 307-867-7240.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers set the stage for a poignant visit. Witness the Battle of the Little Bighorn Re-enactment in June, a solemn tribute to history. Clear skies and gentle breezes make spring an ideal time to immerse in this historic landscape.
Experience the rich history and vast landscapes in the warm summer months, with temperatures often in the 80s and 90s. Witness the Battle of the Little Bighorn Reenactment in June, a poignant tribute to the past. Despite weekday closures, weekends offer ample time to explore the battlefields and national cemetery under clear summer skies.
Visit in fall, September to October, with mild temperatures (50s-70s Fahrenheit) and fewer crowds. Enjoy the annual Crow Fair in September, a vibrant Native American cultural event. Crisp autumn air and golden landscapes enhance the historic site’s solemn beauty. Ideal for a reflective, immersive experience.
Visit from November to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures often below 0°F and possible lows of -30°F. Experience the battleground’s stark beauty, but be prepared for harsh, cold conditions. Not for the faint of heart, this season offers a unique, undisturbed immersion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the monument is Hardin, Montana, although Billings, Montana, and Sheridan, Wyoming, are also nearby, with Billings being 65 miles northwest and Sheridan 70 miles south.
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You can bring your dog, but it must stay in the vehicle or be walked in a specific area on the side of the main road, where it must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are not allowed on trails or in buildings. Service animals are an exception and are allowed under certain conditions.
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There is no separate fee for motorcycle parking; the entrance fee for a motorcycle is $20, which includes the rider and one passenger.
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Visit the Indian Memorial and Custer National Cemetery to understand the historical significance of the site. Take the 4.5-mile driving tour road to follow the route of the Battle of Little Bighorn, and stop at key locations like Last Stand Hill and the Reno-Benteen site. Attend a ranger presentation to gain deeper insights into the battle and its impact on General Custer and the Indigenous peoples involved.