Delmoe Campground

Delmoe Campground, situated within the vast expanse of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in southwest Montana, offers a compelling experience for those seeking an authentic outdoor retreat. Perfectly positioned within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, this site provides a welcoming environment for both tent and RV campers, promising a blend of tranquil lakeside relaxation and exhilarating recreational activities. Located approximately 15 miles from both Whitehall and Butte, Delmoe Campground serves as a popular access point to the Whitetail-Pipestone area, renowned for its diverse landscape and recreational opportunities.

The environment surrounding Delmoe Campground is characterized by its high elevation of approximately 6,100 feet, set amidst a scenic landscape of heavy pines and scattered aspen trees. The focal point of the area is Delmoe Lake, a man-made reservoir covering 319 acres. This lake's water levels fluctuate throughout the summer season as it is used for irrigation by the Pipestone Water Users near Whitehall, an important detail for those planning water-based activities. Despite the fluctuations, the lake remains a central feature, providing a beautiful backdrop to the campground. The area boasts a generally peaceful setting, offering a serene escape from urban life. Beyond the immediate lake vicinity, the Whitetail-Pipestone area presents a rugged and diverse terrain, featuring unique rock formations and vast stretches of forest, making it a picturesque location for various outdoor pursuits. While shaded by tall pines, some campsites may have reduced shade due to past hazard tree removal efforts, which have also opened up views in certain areas. The natural beauty of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, as Montana's largest national forest spanning over 3.32 million acres across eight counties, means visitors are immersed in a rich ecosystem with potential for wildlife sightings and an abundance of fresh, clean air.

For visitors under the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" umbrella, Delmoe Campground provides essential services designed to ensure a comfortable stay while maintaining a rustic charm. The campground features 25 designated campsites, suitable for both tent and trailer camping. Each site is equipped with fundamental amenities including a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying evenings under the stars (always check for current fire restrictions). Crucially, potable drinking water is available during the summer months, a significant convenience for campers. Restroom facilities, typically vault toilets, are provided, and some are noted as accessible. While Delmoe Campground can accommodate recreational vehicles, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available, signifying a more primitive RV experience. The maximum recommended trailer length is 32 feet, and some sites are better suited for RVs than others, with parking aprons being gravel. Garbage containers are also available for waste disposal, helping to maintain the cleanliness of the campground. Unlike some larger, more amenity-rich RV parks, Delmoe focuses on providing the basics for an authentic outdoor experience, encouraging self-sufficiency while still offering necessary comforts. Firewood is generally able to be found within the campground area, adding to the traditional camping feel.

The features and recreational activities at Delmoe Campground are diverse, catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Delmoe Lake itself is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for trout species like rainbow and cutthroat. A boat launch is available, primarily used for fishing activities, and while the Forest Service does not provide designated swimming areas, there is a nice "beach" in the day-use area next to the boat ramp where swimming is possible. Boating of various types is enjoyed on the lake, and paddle sports like canoeing and kayaking are also popular on its calm waters. Beyond the lake, the Whitetail-Pipestone area is a major draw for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Miles of OHV routes are available, offering challenges for both novice and experienced riders. Visitors can obtain a Whitetail-Pipestone Motorized Recreation Visitor Map from the Butte Ranger District or other local businesses to navigate these trails. Hiking is another prominent activity, with scenic trails along the lake and in the surrounding forest. The broader Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest provides hundreds of miles of trails, including some specifically for equestrians and mountain bikers. Bird watching and wildlife viewing are also rewarding, given the diverse habitats of the national forest. The campground also features a picnic area with tables, suitable for day use even if not camping.

When considering promotional information and practical details for Delmoe Campground, it's important to note its operational season and fee structure. The campground is typically open annually from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September, though specific dates can be weather-dependent. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted. This necessitates early arrival, especially during peak holiday weekends, to secure a spot. The per-night fee for a campsite is approximately $15, with an additional $5 fee for extra vehicles per night (if space allows), which is usually charged from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. A 16-day stay limit is enforced to ensure fair access for all visitors. Holders of Interagency Annual Passes, Senior Passes, and Access Passes receive a 50% discount on single camping units, though this discount does not apply to extra vehicle fees. Closest towns for supplies and services are Butte and Whitehall. Visitors should always check for current conditions, alerts, and warnings, such as road improvements (e.g., on Delmoe Lake Road #222 and Delmoe Campground Road #9371), which might cause delays or temporary closures. It's recommended to contact the Butte Ranger District at 406-494-2147 for the most up-to-date information. While the roads leading to the campground are gravel and generally suitable for passenger vehicles, caution should be exercised due to the presence of ATVs, motorcycles, and other OHVs. Food storage requirements are in place to mitigate wildlife encounters, and visitors are encouraged to bring local firewood to prevent the spread of pests. Delmoe Campground offers a genuine Montana camping experience, combining natural beauty with accessible recreation for a memorable outdoor adventure.