Tent camping near Darby, Montana places campers in the Bitterroot Valley at approximately 3,900 feet elevation, surrounded by the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and Sapphire Mountains to the east. Campgrounds in this region typically operate from May through September, with some primitive sites accessible year-round when snow conditions permit. Nighttime temperatures can drop substantially even in summer months, often requiring cold-weather sleeping gear.
What to do
Fishing access points: Gold Creek Campground provides direct access to trout fishing opportunities. "Located in the remote forest is a perfect campground. Not a lot of people, gold creek is prime fishing for trout," notes camper Kat S. about this secluded spot.
Hot springs hiking: Jerry Johnson Campground serves as a gateway to natural hot springs in the region. "Jerry Johnson has totally unimproved, rustic hot springs. There is a short hike from the road at the pull-off back to a series of lovely hot springs," explains Lindsay B. The springs require a moderate hike from the campground area.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities at several camping areas. At Deep Creek, one camper reports, "We fished off the dock and was visited by a large otter!" The campground's location near water features attracts various wildlife species throughout the day.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Multiple campsites feature creekside locations that provide natural white noise. At Crazy Creek Campground, camper Annie C. appreciated that "the only thing I could hear was the water and later a fire spotter plane overhead." This natural sound barrier helps mask highway noise at some locations.
Low occupancy rates: Several campgrounds remain relatively uncrowded even during peak season. "Only 3 miles off the main drag, I'm not sure why more people weren't camping here. While there are only about 8 sites only 2 were taken," reports a visitor to Crazy Creek Campground, suggesting opportunities for solitude.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive feedback from multiple visitors. Will M. at Gold Creek Campground notes, "Pit toilet was clean and well supplied," while another camper at a different site mentioned, "the outhouses were immaculate! Honestly the nicest outhouse I have ever seen."
What you should know
Access considerations: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. Deep Creek Campground requires commitment to reach: "It is a long gravel road to get there but worth the trip! It's beautiful!" according to Marian J.
Water sources: Potable water is limited at most sites. For Gold Creek, Will M. advises: "Only water source is the creek which is not easy to access. Note, it isn't really difficult, either." Campers should bring container systems for water purification or sufficient water for their stay.
Seasonal closures: Verify campground status before traveling as some areas close unexpectedly. Jerry Johnson Campground has experienced extended closures in recent years with one visitor reporting, "They cut all the trees down some years ago and then closed it."
Biting insects: Depending on the season, biting flies and mosquitoes can be problematic. "A lot of biting flies when I was there," reports Will M. about Gold Creek Campground. Bug protection is essential during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Darby-area campgrounds offer chances for children to observe animals safely. At Crazy Creek, Annie C. reports, "Saw a doe and fawn on the way out in the morning," providing natural wildlife viewing opportunities that families can enjoy.
Road noise awareness: Select sites further from highways for better sleep quality with children. While Jerry Johnson campground offers excellent amenities, one visitor notes, "The campsite is a little close to the highway, but it was not very loud at night."
Early season considerations: Facilities may not be fully maintained early in the camping season. One June visitor observed, "It may be too early in the season for maintenance but grass is high around campsites," suggesting late June through August offers more reliable conditions for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most tent campgrounds near Darby have limited space for larger vehicles. While Big Creek RV sites can accommodate larger rigs, tent-focused areas like Gold Creek and Crazy Creek have smaller parking pads with limited turnaround space.
Level site challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at most locations. According to one camper at Crazy Creek, sites offer "differing amounts of levelness. I had site 2 and had to go to a fairly low spot to find a level place to pitch my tent."
