Sam Billings Memorial Campground

For Montanans who cherish tranquility and the raw beauty of their state, Sam Billings Memorial Campground in the Darby area offers a truly special retreat. Nestled within the magnificent Bitterroot National Forest, this campground consistently earns high praise for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained grounds. It's a place where the grandeur of the mountains meets the soothing sounds of nature, creating an ideal setting for disconnecting and recharging.

Visitors frequently describe Sam Billings Memorial Campground as a "beautiful campground" and "always very peaceful and well maintained," making it a perennial favorite for those who return year after year. While some might note the occasional absence of a visible campground host, this minor detail rarely detracts from the overall "fabulous place to camp!" Its charm lies in its simplicity and the immersive outdoor experience it provides. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to cast a line in the Bitterroot River, a hiker ready to explore the vast wilderness, or simply a family seeking a quiet spot to create lasting memories, Sam Billings Memorial Campground promises an authentic and deeply satisfying Montana adventure.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground is located at Boulder Creek Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA, situated within the renowned Bitterroot National Forest. Its specific location provides a sense of seclusion while remaining relatively accessible for Montanans.

To reach the campground from Darby, Montana, travelers should head south on Highway 93 for approximately 4.3 miles. From there, turn southwest (right) onto West Fork Road (Forest Road 473) and continue for about 13.2 miles. Finally, turn north (right) onto Sam Billings Road (Forest Road 5731) and drive for approximately 0.8 miles until you reach the campground. This route, while extending into a more forested area, is generally manageable for various vehicles, including RVs and trailers. The campground can accommodate RVs or trailers up to 30 feet, making it a viable option for a range of camping setups. Its setting along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River adds to its picturesque appeal and ease of access to water-based activities.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground focuses on providing essential amenities that support a rustic and peaceful camping experience. As a U.S. Forest Service campground, its services are designed to facilitate outdoor enjoyment while maintaining the natural integrity of the area.

• Campsites: The campground consists of 12 individual campsites. These sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires. Some sites can accommodate RVs or trailers up to 30 feet.
• Activity Area: There is a large area specifically designed for group activities, making it suitable for larger gatherings or families camping together.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for convenience. While some user reviews mention that these facilities, though functional, could use better maintenance, they are supplied with toilet paper and are generally odor-free. There are multiple vault toilets located throughout the campground (e.g., across from site 3, between sites 5/6, and across from site 12).
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that there is no drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own supply of water for all needs, including drinking and cooking.
• No Garbage Service: Campers are expected to "pack it in, pack it out," meaning all trash and waste must be removed from the campground to maintain its pristine condition and uphold Leave No Trace principles.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This can mean sites fill up quickly during peak season, especially on holiday weekends.
• No Pets Allowed: It is important to note that some sources indicate "No pets allowed" at this campground, while others imply general pet-friendliness for forest service campgrounds. Visitors should verify current pet policies with the Bitterroot National Forest before bringing their animals.
• Fees: While some older information might state "No fee," current or updated information suggests a fee of around $8 per night (based on 2012 data, current fees should be verified) for individual sites.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground is celebrated for its distinctive features that contribute to its appeal as a serene and engaging outdoor destination in Montana. Its natural setting and recreational opportunities are key draws.

• Peaceful and Well-Maintained: A consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's tranquil atmosphere and excellent maintenance, making it a truly "peaceful and well maintained" place to camp. This sense of calm is a major draw for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.
• Scenic Location: The campground is nestled in a beautiful area along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, surrounded by striking yellow-bark ponderosa pines. This picturesque setting offers stunning natural beauty and a true immersion in the Montana wilderness.
• Excellent Trout Fishing: The nearby West Fork of the Bitterroot River is popular for trout fishing, providing fantastic opportunities for anglers right near the campground. The clear water of the river is often praised.
• Access to Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness: The campground offers direct access to the Boulder Creek Trailhead, which leads into the expansive Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. This provides unparalleled opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring vast, undeveloped wilderness.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest and riverine environment attract various wildlife, including deer, elk, and moose. This makes it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: Beyond the wilderness access, the area provides plenty of "free air, and wide open spaces for hiking, biking and exploring" on various trails suitable for different skill levels.
• Proximity to Painted Rocks Lake: This beautiful lake, known for its gorgeous views and recreational opportunities like boating and swimming, is relatively close by, offering another option for water-based fun.
• Nearby Horse Creek Hot Spring: For those seeking unique relaxation, the Horse Creek Hot Spring is mentioned as being nearby, offering a chance to soak in pure, mineral water.
• Suitable for RVs/Trailers: With sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet, the campground is accessible to a broader range of campers.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the West Fork Ranger District of the Bitterroot National Forest. For the most accurate and current information, it is best to contact this office directly.

Address: Boulder Creek Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA (within the Bitterroot National Forest)

Phone: (406) 363-7100 (Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor's Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-363-7100 (Same as above)

For specific inquiries related to Sam Billings Memorial Campground, it is often more effective to contact the West Fork Ranger District directly:

West Fork Ranger District Phone: (406) 821-3269

West Fork Ranger District Address: 6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829

It is always recommended to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Bitterroot National Forest (fs.usda.gov/bitterroot) for the most up-to-date information on operating seasons, current conditions, fire restrictions, and any changes to fees or regulations before planning your visit.

For Montanans, Sam Billings Memorial Campground near Darby stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished outdoor destination. Its core appeal, consistently highlighted by those who return year after year, lies in its unwavering peace and tranquility. This offers a profound escape from the demands of modern life, allowing locals to truly "take a breath" and immerse themselves in the quiet grandeur of the Bitterroot National Forest.

The campground's reputation for being "very peaceful and well maintained" speaks directly to the desires of Montana residents who value clean, natural spaces for recreation. While the absence of a consistently visible campground host might be noted, it's often seen as a minor detail when weighed against the overall "fabulous place to camp" experience. This fosters a sense of trust and personal responsibility among campers, aligning with the independent spirit often found in Montanans.

Crucially, Sam Billings Memorial Campground serves as a fantastic base for embracing the outdoor lifestyle that defines Montana. Its location along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River provides immediate access to world-class trout fishing. For hikers and backpackers, the direct entry point to the vast Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness through the Boulder Creek Trailhead offers endless opportunities for exploration, wildlife viewing, and challenging adventures. The proximity to other attractions like Painted Rocks Lake and Horse Creek Hot Spring further enhances its appeal, providing diverse options for recreation. Despite the lack of potable water, a common feature in many remote forest campgrounds, this expectation is often met with preparedness by self-reliant Montanans. Ultimately, Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers a quintessential Montana camping experience: serene, beautiful, and deeply connected to the wild, making it a perfect sanctuary for locals to create cherished outdoor memories.

Sam Billings Memorial Campground

Boulder Creek Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA