Bitterroot National Forest campgrounds span over 1.6 million acres where the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain ranges converge in western Montana. Elevations range from 3,200 feet in valleys to peaks exceeding 10,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations even during summer months. Most forest service roads accessing camping areas are unpaved, with conditions deteriorating after rain or at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking the Lake Como Trail: The 9-mile loop trail around Lake Como provides consistent mountain views and lake access. "The loop trail around the lake is around 9 miles, and worth every step. The constant view of mountains and the clear lake are phenomenal," notes a visitor at Lake Como Campground.
Geology exploration: The Bitterroot range offers interesting geological features for those interested in earth sciences. One camper at Sam Billings Memorial Campground shared, "Stayed we with a friend here to do some surficial geology in the Bitterroots Mt. It was a really nice central area to work out of and it had all we needed from a long day in the field."
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for spotting native wildlife. "We fished off the dock and was visited by a large otter!" reports a camper at Deep Creek.
Running: Several campgrounds offer direct access to trails suitable for morning runs. One Lake Como visitor explained, "We loved running the 8 mile trail around the lake in the morning while the beach filled up with day time visitors."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many Bitterroot camping areas offer well-separated sites. A visitor to Three Frogs Campground noted, "Three Frogs campground was wonderful. Completely wooded and spacious sites made this place really enjoyable!"
Lake swimming: The lakes in Bitterroot National Forest warm up nicely in summer. "Super warm water. Overall I will back," mentions one camper about Lake Como.
Forest sounds: The mixed conifer forests provide habitat for various wildlife. A visitor to Three Frogs described the tent sites as "nestled in the trees amongst the forest sounds of birds and chipmunks. Deer bed down in the area and are often seen in the early morning hours."
Clear water: Streams and lakes in the region are notably transparent. A Lost Horse Dispersed Campground visitor commented, "Camp is easy to get to. Gravel road for about 2 miles but it's pretty smooth. The view is gorgeous. Trees, mountains, and a nice sized river that cuts through."
What you should know
Campsite maintenance varies: Some campgrounds receive more attention than others. At Rombo Campground, one camper reported, "Extra 5$ over other local campgrounds because there is water available and trash. Not especially nice or terrible. Very small sites, most with no room for a normal size tent, sites packed on top of each other."
Fire pit conditions: Some established campgrounds need maintenance. At Three Frogs, "The fire pits have years of build up ash from use that is well above the vent holes. The depth is 10-14 inches depending on the site."
Road traffic: Some forest roads are busier than expected. A Lost Horse camper observed, "The road in is BUSY. We have camped at a number of dispersed locations over the years and this was BY FAR the busiest forest road we have seen. On Friday night we counted 50 cars passing by before we stopped counting."
Site selection timing: Popular sites fill quickly. "First come, first served. Come before Friday to get a good spot," advises a Three Frogs visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety protocols: Bear-proof storage is essential throughout the region. "Each tent site has a fire pit, tent pad, table, and is completed with a bear proof storage bin for food," notes a Three Frogs camper.
Hammock opportunities: Many campgrounds have suitable trees for hammocks. "Every site is partially shaded throughout the day," reports a Three Frogs visitor, while another mentioned, "There were fire pits that lead to some really yummy s'mores!"
Creek exploration for children: At Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park, a camper shared, "Running creek nearby with little trails, great for little ones."
Budget considerations: Many campgrounds offer discounts. At Sam Billings Memorial, "Be sure to read the notice above the envelope box before you pay. From weather dependent dates chosen by the Rangers there is no cost from late Oct to late May. Otherwise it is $10 per night, $5 with golden or access passes."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing matters: Check site dimensions before arrival. A Lake Como visitor advised, "The sites are pretty spacious. The campground sits below the dam with less wind."
Hookup options: Only a few campgrounds offer electrical hookups. "Electricity and water was a plus, great sites, lake was pristine!" shared a Lake Como camper.
Tight turns on forest roads: Some roads have challenging turns. A Three Frogs camper mentioned, "I did see a 30+ foot trailer but i wouldn't do it. The drive out is a bit to tight for my comfort."
Limited big rig access: Most dispersed sites aren't suitable for larger RVs. "We grabbed a nice big spot right next to Lost Horse Creek late Friday afternoon. Another RV came into the area later in the evening and crowded us a little bit but we still had plenty of room to spread out."
