| NetDescriptions | Baker's early years first boomed when the Milwaukee Railroad came across Montana in the 1900s. It received its name from A.G. Baker, the construction engineer for the main railroad line. In 1915, a driller, seeking water, discovered natural gas. Many wells in the vicinity later produced oil in abundant quantities. Most of the downtown area was built during this time, and in the 1960s and 1970s, oil and gas exploration was plentiful.
No matter which direction you look in Baker, you will see stretches of scenery painted with golden fields and sandstone, arched horizon to horizon with the big, beautiful, blue sky. Drive 25 miles south of Baker to see Medicine Rocks State Park. You'll understand why dinosaur bones have been found near Baker when you see the honey-combed sandstone rock formations, carved by time, water, and wind. The Montana Fish Wildlife and Park campground at the park is open year round and offers camping for trailers up to 20 feet.
Let your mind wander; you can imagine how the Indians lived, or what hardships the first explorers, trappers, and settlers must have faced. O'Fallon Historical Museum in Baker will fill in the details that your imagination may have left out. The story of fashion is exhibited on mannequins wearing clothes and accessories of the past. The full-size taxidermy mount of the 3,980-pound steer, Montana, dwarfs visitors who come to view him. Volunteers will give you directions to one of the many tipi rings in the area, or point out to you the wagon ruts left by some of the original wagon trains that came through Montana.
Baker offers a variety of year round activities. Our vast prairie is perfect habitat for big game hunting such as mule deer, white tail deer and antelope; and also game birds such as pheasants. Make Baker Lake, located in Baker, your destination. There are public docks to put your boat in for skiing, fishing, and boating. Several parks surround the lake where you can enjoy a beautiful summer day on the lakeshore swimming and picnicking. Overnight camping is allowed with prior communication to the Parks Department (406)778-8116. Basketball and sand volleyball courts are nearby as well as a picnic pavilion equipped with tables, grills, and restrooms to accommodate any gathering. Baker also boasts Lakeview Country Club, a nine-hole golf course with full amenities.
Annual events in the Baker area include Baker Jam Basketball Tournament, Classic Car Show, Bump n' Run Races, Fallon County Days, Fallon County Fair, Crazy Days, Christmas Stroll, Coyote Calling Contest, just to name a few. Visit the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agricultures website www.bakermt.com for a complete listing of events. |