Lake Como Campground

For Montanans seeking a truly picturesque and amenity-rich camping experience, Lake Como Campground in the Bitterroot National Forest stands as a premier destination. Nestled below the stunning 913-acre Lake Como near Darby, this campground offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and convenient facilities, making it an ideal spot for families, RVers, and tent campers alike. It's a place where the majestic Montana landscape meets comfortable outdoor living, providing a perfect setting for your next adventure.

Lake Como Campground, also known as "Lower Como," is highly regarded by visitors for its clean facilities and spacious sites. Reviewers frequently praise the "very clean bathrooms" and the "nice amount of space" between campsites, ensuring a private and enjoyable stay. Its strategic location within the larger Lake Como Recreation Area means campers have immediate access to a wealth of activities, from swimming and boating on the lake to exploring numerous hiking trails. The campground’s commitment to providing partial hookups for RVs, as noted by a lucky camper who found a spot during a busy 4th of July weekend, further enhances its appeal for those who desire a bit more comfort in the wilderness.

For locals across Montana, Lake Como Campground represents an accessible and high-quality option for experiencing the renowned Bitterroot Valley. Its paved sites, often requiring "very little leveling efforts," make setup easy, allowing more time for recreation. The presence of friendly and helpful hosts, highlighted in multiple reviews, adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a weekend escape or a longer stay of up to seven days, Lake Como Campground offers a well-maintained and beautifully situated basecamp to explore all that the Bitterroot National Forest has to offer.

Lake Como Campground is conveniently located at Darby, MT 59829, USA, within the beautiful Bitterroot National Forest. Its accessibility is one of its key advantages, making it a popular choice for Montanans.

To reach Lake Como Campground from Darby, Montana, you'll travel north on Highway 93 for approximately 3.6 to 4 miles. Then, turn west onto County Road 82, also known as Lake Como Road. Follow the signs to the Lake Como Recreation Area, and continue west past Forest Road 1111 towards the boat launch. The campground, often referred to as "Lower Como," is part of this recreation area and is easily found by following the signs. The drive is straightforward, mostly on paved roads, making it accessible for all types of vehicles, including larger RVs and trailers. Reviewers specifically mention "large paved sites" that accommodate various rigs. The campground's proximity to Highway 93, being "only 4 miles off hwy 93," is a significant convenience, allowing for quick access from both Darby and Hamilton, where additional services and supplies can be found.

The elevation of the campground is approximately 4,300 feet, nestled below the 913-acre Lake Como itself. The setting is a lovely stand of mixed pine and fir trees, providing ample shade and a pleasant forest ambiance. The easy access and well-maintained roads leading to the campground contribute significantly to its popularity, allowing campers to spend less time navigating and more time enjoying the natural surroundings. This ease of access, combined with its stunning location, makes Lake Como Campground a prime destination for locals.

Lake Como Campground provides a range of services designed to enhance the camping experience, particularly for RVers and those seeking more comfort than primitive sites.

• RV Sites with Hookups: The campground features "ten 125' pull through recreational vehicle (RV) sites with electrical and water hookups." Some reviews specify "30 amp service and water," and mention the availability of "partial hookups for $25 a night." This is a significant convenience for RV campers.
• Clean Restrooms: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities. Reviews highlight "very clean bathrooms" and "tidy outhouses" (vault toilets). There are "4 handicap accessible vault toilets located throughout the campground."
• Potable Water: Potable water is available at the campground, with "water hookups" at each RV site and "additional faucets located through the campground."
• Garbage Services: Garbage services are provided, contributing to the "neat and tidy" appearance of the campground, as indicated by reviews mentioning dumpsters.
• Camp Host: Lake Como Campground features "wonderful hosts" who are often praised for being "helpful" and contributing to a positive atmosphere. A host site is present in the campground.
• First-Come, First-Served: While specific sites (like the RV hookup sites) are generally first-come, first-served, the campground does not typically take reservations for individual sites, allowing for spontaneous visits. A review notes "FCFS" for sites.
• ADA Accessible Sites: "Three sites are handicap accessible," ensuring that the campground is welcoming to all visitors.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes with a picnic table and a metal fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires (subject to fire restrictions).
• Long Stay Limit: Campers can stay for "up to 7 consecutive days," providing ample time to explore the area. Some sources indicate a 14-day limit in other loops.

Lake Como Campground distinguishes itself with an array of features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination in the Bitterroot Valley.

• Proximity to Lake Como: The campground is "within walking distance of the lake" and is located directly "below Lake Como," offering immediate access to the 913-acre lake. This is a "pretty lake" that is a "popular destination for recreationists."
• Water Activities: Lake Como is ideal for various water sports. Visitors can enjoy "swimming (with a large, sandy beach)," "boating (motorized and non-motorized)," "canoeing and kayaking." A "boat ramp" is conveniently located at the south side of the dam.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The area offers "lots of trails to explore." A prominent feature is the "7-mile loop trail around Lake Como," which is suitable for "hiking, mountain biking," and provides access to the lake. The "first quarter-mile of the trail is wheelchair accessible." A magnificent "waterfall that cascades over fern-covered rock cliffs" is approximately 3 miles from the campground, accessible via a trail.
• Paved, Level Sites: RV sites are "large paved sites that required very little leveling efforts," making setup easy and comfortable for campers with recreational vehicles.
• Privacy Between Sites: Despite being a developed campground, sites are "nestled in the woods" and have "good privacy between campsites" due to the mixed pine and fir trees and grass understory.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Bitterroot National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including "osprey, bald eagles, deer, moose, elk, and bears." Campers are advised to practice safe food storage due to being in "bear country."
• No Cell Service: For many, the "No cell service which is a great plus" is a significant highlight, allowing for a true digital detox and a deeper connection with nature. However, one review mentioned successful Starlink use for calls and TV.

For all inquiries regarding Lake Como Campground, the primary point of contact is the Bitterroot National Forest, specifically the Darby Ranger District, which oversees this recreation area.

Address: Darby, MT 59829, USA (This is the general geographical location of the campground.)

Phone: (406) 821-3913 (Darby Ranger District, Bitterroot National Forest)

It is highly recommended that you contact the Darby Ranger District directly for the most current and official information on Lake Como Campground. They can provide details on its current operating status (typically open from May through Labor Day), any fees (currently $25 per night with water/electricity included, and a day use pass included), site availability (as it's first-come, first-served), fire restrictions, and any other pertinent regulations. While Starlink might provide connectivity, regular cell service is often unavailable, so planning your visit with information gathered beforehand is essential for a smooth experience.

For Montanans, Lake Como Campground is an ideal and highly suitable destination that encapsulates the best of our state's outdoor offerings. Its prime location in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, with direct access to the expansive Lake Como and its numerous recreational opportunities, makes it a true local treasure. Unlike more primitive sites, the presence of RV hookups, clean, well-maintained bathrooms, and paved, level sites means that campers can enjoy the grandeur of the wilderness with a significant degree of comfort – a perfect balance for families and those seeking a relaxing yet adventurous getaway.

The "first-come, first-served" policy provides the flexibility that many Montanans appreciate, allowing for spontaneous trips to escape the daily grind. The friendly and helpful campground hosts contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, making every stay more enjoyable. The opportunity to swim in the lake, boat, fish, or explore the "lots of trails" nearby, including the accessible sections of the Lake Como Loop Trail, caters to a wide range of interests and activity levels. This makes it a perfect spot for local families to create lasting memories in their own backyard.

Furthermore, the deliberate lack of cell service for most providers offers a much-needed digital detox, allowing for true immersion in nature – a highly valued aspect for many Montanans who cherish disconnecting. Yet, its close proximity to Darby and Hamilton ensures that essential supplies are never too far away. Lake Como Campground truly embodies the spirit of accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation in Montana, making it an excellent choice for residents looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Bitterroot National Forest.

Lake Como Campground

Darby, MT 59829, USA