Schumaker Campground

For those of us who live in Montana, the allure of escaping into our vast and beautiful wilderness is a constant call. The Bitterroot Valley, with its stunning mountains and clear waters, holds countless opportunities for outdoor adventure and peaceful retreats. Tucked away in this majestic landscape, near the charming town of Darby, lies Schumaker Campground. This isn't your bustling RV park; it’s a tranquil, rustic gem perfect for those seeking quiet nights, breathtaking views, and direct access to some of Montana's most pristine natural areas. This article is crafted for our fellow Montanans, offering an in-depth look at what makes Schumaker Campground a highly appealing destination for your next outdoor escape.

Schumaker Campground is a serene and well-regarded Forest Service campground located within the beautiful Bitterroot National Forest, just outside of Darby, Montana. It boasts a picturesque setting right on the edge of Twin Lakes, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and old-growth pine forests. This campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a quiet respite from daily life. Visitors frequently praise its tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Operating on a free, first-come, first-served basis, Schumaker Campground provides a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. It features 16 campsites, including some that are handicap accessible, ensuring that a wider range of visitors can enjoy its beauty. While it can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 55 feet, access to the campground involves navigating a somewhat rough and steep road, making high-clearance vehicles advisable. Despite this, the journey is well worth it for the stunning views and the opportunity to engage in activities like non-motorized boating, fishing in Twin Lakes, and accessing nearby alpine trails that lead into the vast Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. As some local reviewers have noted, while bugs can be a factor in mid-summer, the overall beauty and potential for privacy, depending on the season, easily make it a 4 or 5-star experience for those who appreciate true Montana wilderness camping.

Schumaker Campground is nestled high in the Bitterroot Mountains, at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet. Its address, Twin Lakes Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA, places it within the Darby Ranger District of the Bitterroot National Forest. This location makes it an excellent base for exploring the southern Bitterroot Valley and accessing the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.

Accessing Schumaker Campground requires a bit of an adventure. From Darby, Montana, you'll travel approximately 7 miles north on US Highway 93. Then, turn west (left) onto Lost Horse Road (Forest Service Road 429) and continue for about 18 miles. Finally, take the north fork (right) at the Lost Horse Guard Station onto Forest Service Road 5605 and follow it for approximately 2 miles until you reach the campground. It's important to note that Forest Service Road 429 can be "extremely rough" due to numerous potholes and rocks, and the road to the campground itself is described as "narrow, rough, and fairly steep in some places." For this reason, high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. While the campground is open year-round until closed by snow, the Lost Horse Road (FS429) itself is closed to wheeled motorized vehicles from December 1 to June 16, meaning the peak season for reliable access is typically mid-June through Labor Day. This journey, though challenging in parts, is a scenic one, winding through the beautiful Bitterroot National Forest and setting the stage for the tranquil experience that awaits.

• Campsites: Schumaker Campground offers 16 designated campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, providing essential amenities for outdoor cooking and relaxation. Some sites also have space for additional tents.
• Restroom Facilities: Two vault toilets are available throughout the campground, including two that are handicap accessible. These facilities are generally well-kept, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Host Site: The campground often has a host on-site, which can be helpful for general inquiries and maintaining campground order.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to be aware that Schumaker Campground does *not* provide potable drinking water. Visitors must bring all their own water or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites. This is a rustic, dry-camping experience, suitable for tent campers and self-contained RVs.
• Free Camping: A significant advantage, there are no fees required for camping at Schumaker Campground, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. This allows for spontaneous trips but suggests early arrival during peak times.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out" Policy: There is no garbage service at the campground. Campers are strictly required to pack out all their trash and waste, ensuring the pristine condition of the area.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, but they must be kept on a leash at all times, in accordance with Forest Service regulations.
• Maximum Stay Limit: Camping is limited to 16 consecutive days to allow for fair use by all visitors.

• Beautiful Views and Scenery: The campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the tranquil Twin Lakes. Many visitors rave about the beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Consistently praised for being a "nice, quiet spot to camp," Schumaker provides a serene environment, far removed from urban noise, ideal for relaxation.
• Twin Lakes Access: The campground sits right on the edge of Twin Lakes, which are popular for non-motorized boating (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding) and fishing. Motorized boats are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful experience on the water.
• Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Gateway: Its proximity to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness offers direct access to extensive alpine trails for hiking and backpacking, appealing to serious outdoor adventurers.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The Bitterroot National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, elk, and various bird species. Early mornings and dusk offer the best chances for sightings.
• Shady Sites: The campsites are often described as being in open pine forest or having partial shade, providing comfort during sunny days.
• Affordable (Free!) Camping: The no-fee policy is a major highlight, making it an extremely attractive option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a genuine wilderness experience.
• Good for RVs (with caveats): While rustic and lacking hookups, the campground can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 55 feet, offering spacious sites for those with larger rigs willing to navigate the rough access road.
• Dark Sky for Stargazing: Being away from significant light pollution, Schumaker Campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

For the most current information regarding Schumaker Campground, including seasonal accessibility, road conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific alerts, it is highly recommended to contact the Darby Ranger District of the Bitterroot National Forest.

Address: Twin Lakes Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA (This is the physical location of the campground, not a mailing address for inquiries).

Darby Ranger District Office:

Address: 712 N. Main, Darby, MT 59829

Phone: (406) 821-3913

Mobile Phone: +1 406-821-3913

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays).

Given the condition of the access road and the high elevation, checking with the Ranger District about current snow levels and road conditions is particularly important, especially during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall).

For us Montanans, Schumaker Campground embodies the very essence of what makes our state so special for outdoor enthusiasts. Its suitability for locals lies in its genuine, unadulterated wilderness experience, combined with an accessibility that, while requiring a capable vehicle, is well within reach for a weekend escape. We appreciate places that offer quiet solitude and stunning natural beauty without the crowds often found at more developed sites, and Schumaker delivers precisely that.

The fact that it's a free campground is a huge draw, aligning with our independent spirit and love for economical adventures in our own backyard. For those of us with canoes, kayaks, or fishing poles, the serene Twin Lakes offer a perfect, non-motorized aquatic playground, complemented by picturesque views. The proximity to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness means serious hikers and backpackers have a direct gateway to expansive, rugged trails, allowing us to truly push our limits and explore some of Montana's most remote corners. While the famous Montana mosquitoes in July are a known factor, it's a small trade-off for the otherwise pristine environment, reminding us to always be prepared (and to bring bug spray!). Schumaker Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a tranquil haven, a launching pad for high-country adventures, and a perfect embodiment of the peaceful, wild spirit of the Bitterroot National Forest, making it an ideal choice for any Montanan seeking to reconnect with our state's incredible outdoors.

Schumaker Campground

Twin Lakes Rd, Darby, MT 59829, USA