Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers equestrian camping opportunities in the Bitterroot National Forest near Darby, Montana. Located at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, the campground serves as a gateway to extensive backcountry trails. Weather in this area varies significantly with hot summer days reaching 80-90°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 40-50°F, requiring campers to pack accordingly for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Trail riding access: From Sam Billings Memorial Campground, equestrians can access the Bitterroot Mountains trail system directly. "The Rangers are proactive in sharing any important information such as severe weather, bear activity, or any other notable activity," notes Sadie P., highlighting the safety measures in place for backcountry riders.
Geology exploration: For those interested in natural history, the surrounding area offers geological exploration opportunities. "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," writes Nick P. about his experience using Sam Billings as a base for scientific fieldwork.
Wildlife viewing: Higher elevation horse camps provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hogan Cabin, located at 7,200 feet, visitors report frequent wildlife sightings. "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek," reports Juice B., who spent three nights at this remote location.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at horse campgrounds near Darby, Montana. "This is a well maintained NFS campground. 3 vault toilets that are kept clean," writes Sadie P. about Sam Billings Memorial Campground, adding that the Rangers visit weekly to ensure everything remains in good order.
Water features: Many campers appreciate the streams and water features near the equestrian campsites. At Charles Waters Campground, Annie C. notes, "I like the sites on the far side of the loop as they are closer to the creek and away from the dusty road." The sound of water adds to the camping experience, with another reviewer mentioning, "We love the fact that you can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful."
Spacious sites: Horse campers need room, and several campgrounds deliver. "Sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV," reports one camper about Sam Billings. At May Creek, Chris J. notes, "The campsites have fire pits and picnic tables. It's not that far from the highway which is nice if your looking to explore the area."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most horse campgrounds in the area have limited seasonal availability. Sam Billings charges fees from late May to late October at $10 per night, with a 50% discount for Golden Age or Access Pass holders. From late October to late May, there is typically no cost.
Limited cell service: Prepare for communication limitations. "No cell service, only 1 mile to the paved road, Ranger station is only about 1/2 mile down that paved road," reports a camper about Sam Billings Memorial Campground.
Popularity during peak season: Plan accordingly as sites fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays. "Only a few sites so if its great weather or holiday show up mid week or even a week ahead if you can," advises one experienced camper who frequently visits East Fork Group Area, where access to "a massive wilderness area that has in excess of 40 separate lakes" makes it a popular destination.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family horse camping, look for sites with proper facilities. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, site #2 "can easily hold 5 full size trucks side by side, or three medium size trailers/5th wheels with their tow vehicles. It also has 3 large tables, plenty of open ground for tents, and is ideal for large groups and families," according to Sadie P.
Consider lake access: Mussigbrod Campground offers lake activities alongside horse camping opportunities. "The lake is beautiful and not too cold. You can definitely bring a non-motorized boat to go around the lake in," shares Mackenzie F. This combination of water recreation and equestrian facilities makes it suitable for families with varied interests.
Be bear aware: Families camping with horses should take extra precautions with food storage and waste management. "Saw lots of animals even a video of a Grizzly not but 3 miles from the camp grounds. Another camper had the video of the Grizzly from the night before!" reports Scott C. about his experience at Mussigbrod.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: RVers with horse trailers should target specific sites. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, "Sites #1 & #2 are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV. The remaining sites vary in size," advises a regular camper.
Parking logistics: Most horse campgrounds separate trailer parking from camping areas. At Sam Billings, "There is no room to park horse trailers on that pull thru. One trailer spot across from site 4 by the 'stock water trail' sign, the rest can park 50 yards down the road at the trail head/turn around," providing essential information for those traveling with both RVs and horse trailers.
Water availability: Check seasonal water sources before arrival. While many campgrounds list drinking water as an amenity, availability may be seasonal. Campers at Charles Waters Campground note "water spigots throughout," but caution that some are "placed so close to the vault toilets" that water quality concerns may arise.
