Camping opportunities near Darby include forest service sites nestled within the Bitterroot National Forest at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day with nighttime lows of 45-55°F. Most campgrounds open from late May through September, with some sites accessible for dispersed camping year-round depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Fishing spots: Three Frogs Campground provides access to Lake Como, a popular fishing destination. "This is a nice campground with a beautiful lake. No hookups. Potable water. No dump. Vault toilets. Sites are spaced out. Lake access is not the greatest for carrying kayaks. Good lake access from day use just before entering campground," reports Eric G.
Hiking trails: Lake Como Campground offers excellent trail 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 Lindsay B. Morning runs are popular among campers: "We loved running the 8 mile trail around the lake in the morning while the beach filled up with day time visitors."
River access: Angler's Roost Campground provides direct access to the Bitterroot River. "This is not a fancy campground but we loved it. It's on the Bitterroot River with the Bitterroot Mtns behind you and the Sapphire in front," shares asta C. The campground includes "70 rv and tent spots" with "1/4 mile of riverfront."
What campers like
Forest setting: Three Sisters Group Site offers group camping in a wooded setting. "Great site for group camping. Perfect for parties," notes Kat S. This campground complements other Lake Como area sites for larger gatherings.
Tent-specific areas: Campers appreciate designated tent areas at Three Frogs Campground. "The walk in tent sites are 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. Each tent site has a fire pit, tent pad, table, and is completed with a bear proof storage bin for food," reports Sadie P.
Clean facilities: Warm Springs Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "No water, but vault toilet was super clean. Would go back," notes Sabine S. Another camper adds: "As the previous camper indicated, this is a quiet and lovely Campground. Please note I found only one site with electrical hookup."
What you should know
Cancellation policies: Some private campgrounds have strict policies. At Black Rabbit RV, a camper reported: "Due to vehicle problems and not being able to get it repaired in time for our trip I called to cancel our reservations. It was a couple of days beyond their 2 week cancellation policy."
Seasonal crowds: Lost Horse Dispersed Campground gets busy in peak season. "We found out that 'Twin Lakes' is about 20 miles down the rough forest road from our campsite. We didn't venture that far as we could only go about 8-10 MPH max in our truck on the washboard road. Maybe we should have tried because it seemed to be quite the attraction given the traffic," notes one camper.
Wildlife considerations: Pet owners should note wildlife activity. "Be bear aware in season," advises a Sam Billings Memorial Campground reviewer. Most dog friendly campgrounds near Darby require pets to be leashed and never left unattended due to wildlife concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Lake Como offers swimming opportunities. "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," reports Haley S. about Lost Horse Dispersed Campground, adding that it has "Good size sites and fire pits as well."
Walk-in town access: Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park provides convenient access to Darby. "The campground owner Libby was very helpfull and nice to us. Its very close to the city. So you can walk and leave your camper on the ground," notes Max B. Another reviewer adds: "$12 gets you campsite showers and toilets, WiFi and coin laundry."
Food storage: When camping with pets at dog friendly campgrounds near Darby, bear-proof storage is essential. "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 Campground reviewer. This feature is especially important for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Three Frogs Campground has limitations for larger RVs. "Been coming here for over 50 years. Good for tents, and RVs UNDER 30ft," advises David M. about Warm Springs Campground. A Three Frogs reviewer adds: "The campground has an upper and lower level. I did see a 30+ foot trailer but i wouldn't do it. The drive out is a bit to tight for my comfort."
Hookup availability: RV campers have options for different levels of amenities. "The campground has water and electricity. It's a great deal, especially for seniors with the America the Beautiful pass. We paid $12.50 a night. The sites are pretty spacious," reports Marc M. about Lake Como Campground.
Extra parking: Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers flexibility for larger groups. "Sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV. The remaining sites vary in size. #2 can easily hold 5 full size trucks side by side, or three medium size trailers/5th wheels with their tow vehicles."
