Outdoor Activities

A dozen boaters out on the river fishing near Randall Creek in early spring. The sky is hazy blue. Trees along the river's edge in the background are without leaves. Across the river and beyond the boaters are rolling hills dotted with green cedar trees. — Fishing tends to be good below Randall Dam near Randall Creek Recreation Area.
NPS photo

The Missouri River and surrounding area serve as an outdoor recreation mecca.

Boating - Please be aware of South Dakota and Nebraska boating regulations.

Birding - Migrating species benefit from bottomland, which serves as wintering, feeding, breeding, and staging grounds.

Camping - Primitive and regular camping allowed in the National Park and at partner sites.

Canoeing & Kayaking - Be prepared for an adventure on the "Big Muddy".

Fishing - Catfish, walleye, sauger, paddlefish, and many more game species await your angling skills.

Hiking & Biking - Most of the state parks along the river corridor have a variety of recreational trails. Click on the following parks for more information:

Hunting is another popular year-round activity along the river. Both South Dakota and Nebraska state hunting regulations apply.

Duck blind permits for the upper end of Lewis and Clark Lake can be obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Please visit their Hunting Page for additional information including fees and deadlines.