Delmoe Lake Campground And Picnic Area
4.4030 reviews1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701
Delmoe Lake Campground And Picnic Area
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A $15 per night camping fee is charged, plus an additional $5 fee per night for extra vehicles during the Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
About this campground
Nestled in the scenic Whitetail-Pipestone area, Delmoe Lake Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 25 thoughtfully designed campsites perfect for both tent campers and RV travelers. This mountain retreat accommodates trailers up to 32 feet and provides all the essential amenities for a comfortable stay, including fresh drinking water, clean restrooms, sturdy picnic tables, and convenient waste disposal. Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or an extended adventure, this well-equipped campground serves as your gateway to Montana's spectacular high country.
Delmoe Lake Campground offers a range of camping options, including trailer and tent camping, with a total of 25 campsites. The campground also features two distinct loops, catering to different preferences for sun exposure and proximity to the water.
Historical SignificanceDelmoe Lake tells a story of human ingenuity meeting natural beauty. This carefully managed area showcases Montana's agricultural heritage, with the Pipestone Water Users maintaining stewardship over the lake's waters for vital irrigation purposes. This partnership between recreation and agriculture demonstrates how communities can work together to preserve both natural resources and outdoor access, creating a sustainable haven for visitors while supporting the region's farming traditions.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Montana's mountain climate at Delmoe Lake, where late spring through early fall brings gloriously mild days with temperatures dancing between 50 and 80°F. Pack your layers though – at this elevation, evenings transform into crisp, star-filled nights that remind you why mountain air feels so refreshing. The cool temperatures make for perfect sleeping weather in your tent or RV, with mornings that greet you with dew-kissed meadows and invigorating mountain breezes.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet above sea level, Delmoe Lake Campground offers a true alpine experience without the extreme altitude challenges. This sweet spot elevation delivers refreshingly cool temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, while the thin mountain air creates those brilliantly clear skies that make stargazing irresistible. Expect crisp mornings that invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee as you watch the sunrise paint the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own piece of paradise along the shores of Delmoe Lake, where human engineering has created a stunning mountain reservoir embraced by nature's finest. Towering spruce trees mingle with delicate willows and shimmering aspens, creating a diverse tapestry of green that changes with each breeze. Loop B offers the most coveted sites, where campers can wake to water views and enjoy natural shade throughout the day. Ancient granite boulders, scattered like nature's sculptures, add dramatic character to the landscape and provide perfect spots for contemplation or adventure photography.
Geological RegionThe Whitetail-Pipestone area has earned its reputation as an outdoor playground, attracting OHV enthusiasts from across the region to explore its diverse terrain. At the heart of this recreational wonderland sits Delmoe Lake, a testament to successful water management where the Pipestone Water Users have created a multi-use reservoir that serves both agricultural needs and recreational dreams. This unique geological setting combines rugged mountain terrain with the serene waters of a carefully maintained lake, offering visitors the best of both worlds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates trailers up to 32 feet in length and offers a mix of open and shaded sites.
Sites PrivacyLoop A has open and sunny sites, while Loop B offers shaded and private sites along the shoreline.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop B is recommended for shaded waterfront sites, while Loop A provides openness and lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 days
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: Loop A is located above the lake, while Loop B stretches along the shoreline.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through mid-September, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNone; walk-up only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; no advance reservations allowed.
Cancellation PolicyNo advance reservations; first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Delmoe Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, picnicking, and OHV trail riding. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking for lake and trail-based activities. Some reviewers noted wildlife sightings like elk and bald eagles, as well as opportunities for kayaking.
Fishing
Fishing is available in Delmoe Lake, which is stocked with cutthroat trout. One reviewer stated, 'Great fishing and fantastic campgrounds for 5 bucks a night.'Boating
Delmoe Lake supports both power boating and non-motorized boating. Boat ramps and carry-down access are available. A reviewer noted, 'The lake is great for boating.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk and bald eagles have been observed by campers, making the area suitable for wildlife viewing.Beach activities
There is a beach in the day-use area near the boat ramp that is suitable for sunbathing. One user described it as a 'nice beach.'Winter Activities
No winter activities were mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking, swimming, and non-motorized boating are popular among users, although they are not formally supported by the Forest Service.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but safe food storage techniques must be practiced as this is bear country.
Hazards
General hazardsBears and other wildlife are present. The lake level fluctuates in summer.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Butte Ranger District, 1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701. Phone: 406-494-2147. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available on-site, but some reviewers noted garbage left by previous visitors.
Proximity to water featuresDelmoe Lake is adjacent to the campground and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention noise and overcrowding during weekends, as well as maintenance issues like trash and unclean restrooms.
Campground Map
1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701
Driving directionsFrom Butte take I-90 east to the Homestake exit (no. 233) and turn left off the ramp. Continue north on Forest Service Road #222 (Delmoe Lake Road) for approximately 10 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road #9371 and continue for approximately 0.5 miles. The road is a gravel road suitable for passenger vehicle access. Watch for ATVs, motorcycles, and other OHVs on the road.
The last 10 miles of access roads are dirt and gravel. The roads are described as 'pretty well maintained' according to a user review, although others note occasional washboarding and tough terrain.Nearby places
Whitehall (15 miles), Butte (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Butte and Whitehall, both about 15 miles away, are the nearest population centers offering groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
30 reviews
Delmoe Lake Campground And Picnic Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Delmoe Lake Campground are mixed, highlighting its scenic beauty but also pointing out issues with noise and cleanliness. Many reviewers appreciate the lake’s recreational opportunities, while others criticize the lack of peace on weekends.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, fishing, and boating opportunities. One reviewer stated, 'Light mist on the lake in the cool mornings of late summer, beautiful star views,'...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Users commonly mentioned noise, overcrowding on weekends, lack of cleanliness in the restrooms, and trash left by previous visitors. One reviewer stated, 'The easy access also means lots of people...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend avoiding weekends to enjoy a more peaceful stay. One reviewer mentioned, 'Would only return in off-season,' while another said, 'It was absolutely magical on weekdays after the...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is highly crowded during weekends in the summer, leading to noise and overuse. However, weekdays and the off-peak season are described as peaceful and magical.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Delmoe is lovely. Drive in is 10 dusty miles from RT 90, but road is pretty well-maintained.' 'Light mist on the lake in the cool mornings of late summer, beautiful star views.' 'The easy access...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop A is described as more open and sunny, while Loop B offers shaded sites along the lake’s shoreline. Some reviewers prefer Loop B for its privacy and proximity to the water.
Based on 30 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available on-site, but no specific reviews from users with disabilities were noted.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the area is described as 'pet on leash friendly' in at least one user review.
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025