“The Upper Missouri River cuts through badlands, coulees, and rimrock country of central Montana. Lewis and Clark terrain unchanged in 200 years. A time-frozen American wilderness perfect for historical films.”
About This Location
Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument in central Montana preserves a stretch of the Missouri River corridor that looks virtually unchanged from the landscape Lewis and Clark described in their journals over 200 years ago. White sandstone cliffs tower above the river, giving way to badland coulees, sagebrush benches, and remote prairie uplands. The primary access is via the river itself — motorboat or canoe — which also makes it one of the most exclusive feeling landscapes to film in the Northern Plains. The BLM Lewistown Field Office manages commercial film permits for the monument. For historical films, period Westerns, or any story requiring authentic 19th-century American frontier visuals, this location is unrivaled. No roads parallel the river corridor through the heart of the monument. Film season is June through September. Self-sufficient, boat-based productions are best suited to this remarkable location.
Color Palette
Location
📍 Open in Google Maps →Permit Information
Permit Required
Type
BLM Film Permit
Fee
$0–$200+/day
Contact
BLM Lewistown Field Office
Contact Permit Office
📞 406-538-1900Best access is by canoe or motorboat on the Missouri River. Primary visitor season June–September.
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