Delmoe Campground

For Montanans with a passion for rugged outdoor adventure, Delmoe Campground near Butte is an undisputed gem. Nestled within the vast Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this campground offers a unique blend of lakeside tranquility and exhilarating off-highway vehicle (OHV) opportunities, making it a true magnet for locals. It’s a place where the spirit of Montana’s wild landscapes meets the thrill of exploration, promising unforgettable experiences for every visitor.

Delmoe Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub for active outdoor pursuits. As one enthusiastic visitor recounted, "We do a dirt bike and trip here once a year the campgrounds are nice and the dirt biking is excellent." This highlights the campground's significant appeal for dirt bike and ATV riders, who flock to the area for its extensive network of trails and challenging terrain. The Whitetail-Pipestone area, where Delmoe Lake is located, is well-known as a premier destination for OHV enthusiasts in Montana.

Beyond motorized recreation, Delmoe Campground offers a treasure trove of discoveries for all types of adventurers. "Didn't stay at the canoeing but went swimming there! Camped in a free spot and it was amazing. Rode atvs and there's a lot of hidden gems to find. There's the ringing rocks, old abandoned cabins and mines, and free roaming cows! Loved it," shared another delighted camper. This review paints a vivid picture of the diverse experiences available, from swimming in Delmoe Lake to embarking on ATV excursions that lead to fascinating historical and geological wonders. The presence of unique features like the "ringing rocks" and remnants of Montana’s mining history, such as "old abandoned cabins and mines," adds an exciting exploratory element to any trip.

The campground itself provides a comfortable base for these adventures. With 25 designated sites accommodating both tents and trailers up to 32 feet, it caters to a variety of camping styles. The availability of water and restrooms, along with fire rings and picnic tables at each site, ensures essential comforts amidst the wilderness. While the lake level fluctuates due to irrigation use, it remains a popular spot for fishing and picnicking, and offers opportunities for swimming (though visitors should be aware of potential murky water or algae at times, and that swimming is not officially provided by the Forest Service).

Delmoe Campground truly encapsulates the adventurous spirit of Montana, offering a dynamic and engaging environment for those who love to explore, whether on two wheels, four wheels, or simply on foot. It’s a local favorite that promises discovery, excitement, and a deep connection with the rugged beauty of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

Delmoe Campground is located near Butte, MT 59701, USA, specifically within the expansive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. This strategic location places it approximately 15 miles from both Butte and Whitehall, within the popular Whitetail-Pipestone area. This region is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including forested mountains and open terrain, making it a prime destination for outdoor recreation in southwestern Montana.

Access to Delmoe Campground is relatively straightforward from Interstate 90, a major transportation artery running through Montana. From Butte, visitors can take I-90 east to the Homestake exit (Exit 233). From the exit ramp, you turn left (north) onto Forest Service Road #222, also known as Delmoe Lake Road, and continue for approximately 10 miles. A final left turn onto Forest Service Road #9371 for about 0.5 to 0.8 miles will lead you directly to the campground.

The road leading to the campground is primarily a gravel forest road, but it is generally described as suitable for passenger vehicle access. However, visitors should be aware that the area is popular for OHVs, so vigilance for ATVs, motorcycles, and other off-highway vehicles on the road is advisable. This accessibility, combined with its relatively close proximity to major towns like Butte, makes Delmoe Campground a convenient and attractive option for Montanans looking for a wilderness experience that isn’t overly remote. The scenic drive into the forest also sets the stage for the natural beauty that awaits at Delmoe Lake.

For those traveling with RVs, the campground can accommodate trailers up to 32 feet in length, with designated RV-friendly spots. This ensures that a wide range of campers can comfortably access and enjoy the facilities. The balance of being nestled deep enough in the forest for a true outdoor feel, while remaining easily reachable, is a key aspect of Delmoe Campground’s appeal to local users.

• Campsites: Delmoe Campground features 25 designated campsites for both trailer and tent camping. Maximum trailer length is 32 feet. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground, typically through hand pumps. This is a significant convenience for campers.

• Restrooms: Vault toilets are provided, offering essential restroom facilities for visitors.

• Garbage Containers: Unlike some more primitive sites, Delmoe Campground offers garbage containers for waste disposal, making it easier for campers to maintain a clean environment.

• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available at Delmoe Lake, primarily for fishing and non-motorized boating activities. It is important to note the lake level can fluctuate due to irrigation use.

• Picnic Area: In addition to the campsites, there is a dedicated picnic area with tables and fire rings, suitable for day use.

• Firewood: Wood is generally able to be found within the campground area for use in fire pits.

• Fees: There is a per-night fee for camping, typically around $15 per night, with an additional $5 fee for extra vehicles. Fees are usually charged from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

• Stay Limit: A 16-day stay limit is generally enforced.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not usually accepted.

• Prime OHV Riding Destination: Delmoe Campground is a popular hub for dirt biking and ATV riding, with an extensive network of trails in the surrounding Whitetail-Pipestone area. This is a major draw for adventure enthusiasts.

• Delmoe Lake Access: The campground is located directly on Delmoe Lake, a man-made reservoir offering opportunities for fishing, swimming (though water conditions can vary), and non-motorized boating. A boat launch is available.

• Unique Geological and Historical Exploration: The surrounding area is rich with "hidden gems" like the "ringing rocks" (a geological formation producing metallic sounds when struck) and old abandoned cabins and mines, offering fascinating historical and exploratory experiences.

• Wildlife Viewing: The presence of "free roaming cows" and other potential wildlife sightings adds to the authentic Montana outdoor experience. The broader Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is home to deer, elk, and various bird species.

• Scenic Mountain Setting: Situated at over 6,000 feet in elevation, the campground is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and picturesque landscapes, providing stunning views and a serene backdrop for camping.

• Diverse Recreation Opportunities: Beyond OHV riding, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking on nearby trails, rock hounding, and fishing in Delmoe Lake, ensuring activities for a wide range of interests.

• Convenient Amenities: The availability of potable water, restrooms, garbage containers, picnic tables, and fire rings at designated sites offers significant comfort for a rustic forest camping experience.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The variety of activities, from swimming to exploration, makes Delmoe Campground suitable for families looking for an engaging outdoor adventure.

Address: Butte, MT 59701, USA

Phone: (406) 494-2147 (Butte Ranger District - Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest)

It is highly recommended to contact the Butte Ranger District directly for the most current information regarding Delmoe Campground, including opening and closing dates (which are weather-dependent, typically Memorial Day through mid-September), current fees, fire restrictions, road conditions, and any specific alerts about the area.

Delmoe Campground offers an exceptional and dynamic outdoor experience perfectly suited for Montana locals. Its strategic location near Butte and Whitehall, within the sprawling Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, makes it highly accessible for residents across southwestern Montana. This convenience means less time traveling and more time enjoying the state's incredible wilderness, which is a significant advantage for families and individuals seeking frequent outdoor excursions.

What truly sets Delmoe Campground apart for locals is its versatility as an adventure hub. For those who love the thrill of OHV riding, the extensive network of dirt bike and ATV trails in the Whitetail-Pipestone area provides endless excitement, a feature highlighted by enthusiastic repeat visitors. But the appeal doesn't stop there. The opportunity to discover "hidden gems" like the unique ringing rocks, or explore historical abandoned cabins and mines, adds a layer of intrigue and exploration that appeals to curious minds of all ages. This rich tapestry of activities ensures that every visit can offer something new and exciting.

Furthermore, the presence of Delmoe Lake offers a refreshing contrast to the motorized adventures. While the lake level fluctuates, it remains a pleasant spot for fishing, picnicking, and swimming (with proper caution regarding water conditions), providing opportunities for quieter, lakeside relaxation. The campground's amenities, including potable water, restrooms, garbage containers, picnic tables, and fire rings, offer a comfortable and convenient base, allowing campers to truly focus on their outdoor pursuits. The ability to find wood within the campground for fires also adds to the ease of camping.

Delmoe Campground perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Montana: rugged, adventurous, and filled with natural wonders waiting to be discovered. It’s an ideal spot for locals to embrace the state's outdoor lifestyle, whether seeking high-octane thrills, peaceful lakeside moments, or fascinating historical exploration. Its suitability lies in its ability to cater to diverse interests, foster family fun, and provide an authentic Montana wilderness experience right in our own backyard.

Delmoe Campground

Butte, MT 59701, USA