Dayboard Nine Campground: A Secluded Boat-In Escape on Bighorn Lake

Dayboard Nine Campground Introduce

For Montanans seeking a truly unique and secluded camping experience, Dayboard Nine Campground offers an unforgettable adventure. Located within the stunning and rugged Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, this campground is not your typical drive-up spot. Its remote nature, accessible only by boat, makes it a true hidden gem for those willing to go the extra mile for peace and tranquility. Dayboard Nine is part of the extensive waterway trail system and provides a genuine wilderness feel while still offering basic amenities for a comfortable stay. It is the perfect destination for those who want to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the raw, beautiful landscape of Montana. The campground’s setting on the shores of Bighorn Lake offers incredible opportunities for water-based recreation and some of the most spectacular scenery in the state.

The allure of Dayboard Nine lies in its pristine location and its sense of being a truly special place. As part of a series of waterway campgrounds, it offers a distinct sense of adventure. The isolation from vehicle traffic means that visitors can enjoy a quiet and peaceful environment, where the sounds of nature take precedence. The campground provides a rustic yet well-thought-out experience, with features designed to protect both the camper and the environment. As a publicly-managed campground within the National Park Service, it is well-maintained and provides a reliable outdoor experience. Its remoteness is a key feature, ensuring that you won't be dealing with the crowds often found at more accessible campgrounds. It's a fantastic spot for families, as the novelty of a boat trip to your campsite is an adventure in itself, and the absence of cars creates a safe environment for kids to explore and play.

Dayboard Nine Campground is located on the shores of Bighorn Lake in Montana, approximately eight to nine miles south of the Ok-A-Beh Marina. Its address is best described by its position on the lake's waterway system, which can be found in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. This is a boat-in-only campground, which is an important consideration for planning your trip. Visitors must arrive by watercraft, whether it's a motorized boat, a kayak, or a canoe. The nearest boat launch is at Ok-A-Beh Marina, and a launch is also available at Barry's Landing, though it is a longer journey by water. The access to the campground is entirely dependent on water levels, so it's essential to check with the National Park Service for current conditions before you go.

The accessibility of this campground is a key part of its unique appeal. The fact that it is not reachable by car ensures a more remote and less crowded experience. While this requires more logistical planning, it rewards campers with a level of peace and quiet that is hard to find elsewhere. The remoteness also means that you need to be self-sufficient and prepared for your stay. On-site services are limited, which is part of the rustic charm. The park provides a floating dock during the summer season to make landing and unloading easier. For those who enjoy paddling, the approach to the campground can be a beautiful journey in itself, offering a chance to see the spectacular rock formations and cliffs up close. This kind of access makes Dayboard Nine an ideal choice for the adventurous Montanan who craves a truly secluded escape.

Dayboard Nine Campground provides essential services and amenities to ensure a safe and comfortable primitive camping experience.

On-site Services: The campground offers basic on-site services, including floating docks and restrooms during the peak summer season.
Public Restroom: A floating comfort station (a type of public restroom) is available seasonally from late May to late September.
Primitive Campsites: The campground consists of 6 primitive campsites, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and bear box.

The features and highlights of Dayboard Nine are centered around its natural setting and the unique experience it offers.

Boat-In Only: The exclusive boat-in access is a major highlight, guaranteeing a more remote and peaceful camping experience.
Stunning Scenery: The campground is nestled within the dramatic landscape of Bighorn Canyon, offering incredible views of towering cliffs and the clear waters of Bighorn Lake.
Good for Kids: The remoteness and lack of vehicle traffic make it a safe and exciting place for kids to play and explore the natural surroundings.
Bear Boxes: Each site is equipped with a bear box, providing a crucial safety feature for campers to store food and scented items securely.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and a cozy campfire.
Fishing: The location on Bighorn Lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with a variety of species found in the lake.

Given its remote nature, there is no physical phone number or a specific address in the traditional sense for Dayboard Nine Campground. The best way to get information is to contact the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area directly, as they manage the site.

Address: The campground is located on the water near Dayboard Nine, south of Ok-A-Beh Marina on Bighorn Lake in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.

For more information, it is highly recommended to contact the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Visitor Center.

Phone: +1 307-548-5406 (associated with the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area)

Why is Dayboard Nine Campground worth choosing? For those in Montana who have already experienced the state's drive-in campgrounds, Dayboard Nine offers something different and truly special. It provides a level of solitude and immersion in nature that is hard to find at more accessible locations. The boat-in access, while a logistical challenge, is the very thing that makes this campground so appealing. It weeds out the casual campers and rewards those who are looking for a true adventure. The safety features, such as the bear boxes, show the park's commitment to camper safety in this rugged environment. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, and the opportunity to wake up to the sun rising over the cliffs of Bighorn Canyon is an experience that cannot be replicated. For families, it is a chance to create a lasting memory and teach children about the beauty of remote, pristine wilderness. Dayboard Nine is not just a place to stay; it is a destination for the adventurous Montanan, a place to find peace, challenge, and an unparalleled connection to the land.