Coal Banks Landing
Coal Banks Landing Campground, situated along the Upper Missouri River in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, is open from April 1 to December 1 annually. This is a popular site for launching watercraft, as well as camping, picnicking, and fishing. The potable water system at the campground becomes operational after the last freeze in the spring, typically by May 15th.
Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis — NO RESERVATIONS. There are 20 sites, five (5) of which can accommodate trailers or recreational vehicles (RVs) up to 40 feet in length. There are no hookups available. Each site has a designated fire ring and picnic table. The campground is equipped with vault toilets and trash dumpsters. The boat launch use is dependent on water levels, typically 5,000-7,000 cfs is required to launch motorized watercraft.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
A well-maintained dirt road leads to the BLM contact station, parking area, toilets, campsites, and concrete boat ramp at this site, often used by those accessing the backcountry by way of the Missouri River.
The dirt parking area can accommodate approximately 25-30 vehicles. Next to the lot there are several unshaded bulletin boards and a fee-payment box sitting in gravel. Two accessible single vault toilets can be reached by the concrete sidewalk that also leads to the entrance of the contact station. The site has potable water.
A concrete picnic table with a top extended on one end to accommodate wheelchair users sits on hard-packed natural ground near the station’s entrance. The BLM contact station is next to the concrete boat ramp.
On the western side of the contact station, there are 20 campsites, 5 of which are suitable for larger vehicles. Each campsite has a picnic table with an extended end to accommodate wheelchair users.
Descriptions and photos uploaded April 2025. Please note that actual on-the-ground conditions may vary due to natural events (e.g., weather, wildfires, erosion), normal wear and tear, or site improvements.
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Local Directions: When approaching from the south (Great Falls/Fort Benton), take U.S. Hwy 87 north to mile marker 66.7. Turn right on Gardiner Road (improved gravel) and proceed approximately 7 miles to the Virgelle Ferry Road ( Gardiner Road will pass under an old train bridge and end at a "T" intersection). Turn left on Virgelle Ferry Road, travel approximately 1 mile and the campground will be on the right. When approaching from the north (Havre/Big Sandy) take U.S. Hwy 87 south to mile marker 72.4. Turn left on the Virgelle Ferry Road (improved gravel), proceed approximately 6 miles, and the campground will be on the left.
Fees
$20.00 Per Night