Dayboard 9 Campground
00 reviewDayboard 9, Bighorn Lake, Fort Smith, MT, USA, 59035
Dayboard 9 Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Recreation use fees and reservation fees vary. Reservation fees are $8 when booked online or via app, $9 via contact centers, and $3 in-person. There are no details about specific site fees for Dayboard 9 Campground.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover the hidden gem of Dayboard 9 Campground, a secluded boat-in paradise nestled along the pristine waters of Bighorn Lake. Located 9 miles south of Okabeh Marina, this intimate primitive campground offers adventurous souls a chance to experience the raw beauty of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area from your own private slice of wilderness. Each gravel campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table, bear-proof food storage, and fire pit for those magical evenings under the stars. During summer months, boaters will appreciate the convenience of the courtesy dock and floating comfort station, making this remote getaway surprisingly accessible.
Dayboard 9 Campground offers a primitive camping experience with minimal facilities, accessible only by boat.
Historical SignificanceImmerse yourself in the timeless grandeur of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, where centuries of natural and human history converge. This protected landscape preserves not just stunning geological formations but also the stories of Native American peoples, early settlers, and the ambitious engineers who tamed these wild waters. While camping at Dayboard 9, you're experiencing a small part of this larger tapestry of American heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature at its finest during the perfect camping season, when temperatures hover in the sweet spot between 63°F during sun-drenched days and a refreshing 49°F for cozy nights around the campfire. Clear, dry skies dominate the forecast, creating ideal conditions for stargazing and water activities. Summer transforms this canyon oasis into an outdoor playground, with warm days perfect for swimming, fishing, and exploring the surrounding waters by kayak or boat.
ElevationPerched at the water's edge where canyon walls rise dramatically from the reservoir, the campground offers a unique perspective of this vertical wilderness, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking vistas where towering canyon walls painted in shades of red and gold plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Bighorn Lake. This dramatic landscape creates an ever-changing canvas as sunlight dances across ancient rock formations throughout the day. The serene waters lap gently at your doorstep, while overhead, golden eagles and peregrine falcons patrol the thermals rising from the sun-warmed cliffs.
Geological RegionDayboard 9 sits at the heart of one of North America's most spectacular geological showcases. Here, Bighorn Lake fills a canyon carved over millions of years, creating a stunning contrast between the rugged, layered canyon walls and the peaceful reservoir waters. This unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife and offers visitors a front-row seat to observe the powerful forces that shaped the American West, from ancient seas to modern river systems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground includes primitive gravel campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe campground's privacy level is not described.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations provided.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified
Groups
There is no information about group camping facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of primitive gravel campsites clustered near the courtesy dock on Bighorn Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens during the summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day).
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable, as Dayboard 9 Campground is non-reservable.
Walk-in AvailabilityDayboard 9 Campground operates on a walk-up basis rather than through advance reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees apply based on the Recreation.gov policies, including $10 cancellation fees and forfeiture rules for late cancellations. Since Dayboard 9 Campground is non-reservable, these policies may not be strictly relevant.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is set in a serene environment perfect for those seeking a remote, boat-accessible camping experience. Specific recreational activities are not detailed, but opportunities may include enjoying the lake and its surroundings.
Boating
Boating is essential for accessing the campground, as it is a 'boat-in only' location. Additionally, a courtesy dock is available during the summer season.Winter Activities
There is no information provided about winter recreation opportunities.Water Sports
The need for a boat to access the campground suggests possible engagement in water-related activities, but no specific details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at each campsite, but specific fire usage rules are not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear encounters, as indicated by park instructions, and water-based risks due to the campground's boat-in nature.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Fort Smith provides emergency services including a clinic and ranger facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingThere is no information regarding trash or recycling facilities at Dayboard 9 Campground.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Bighorn Lake, with access to a courtesy dock and floating comfort station during the summer.
Common complaintsNone available.
Campground Map
Dayboard 9, Bighorn Lake, Fort Smith, MT, USA, 59035
Driving directionsThis boat-in-only campground is approximately 9 miles by water south of Okabeh Marina, or approximately 27 miles by water north of Barry's Landing.
This campground is accessible exclusively via boat, making it inaccessible by traditional roadways. Visitors should plan for water-based navigation from either Okabeh Marina or Barry's Landing.Nearby places
Okabeh Marina (approx. 9 miles by water), Barry's Landing (approx. 27 miles by water).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies may be sourced from Fort Smith, including groceries and fuel. Additional provisions can be accessed at Okabeh Marina or Barry's Landing before embarking by boat.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
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Review Summaries
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025