Rombo
4.4835 reviews7443 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829, USA
Rombo
$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$15.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites are $15 per night during the peak season (May 23 - September 8). Group shelters are also $15 per night. Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Where the West Fork Bitterroot River whispers through southwestern Montana's pristine wilderness, Rombo Campground offers an intimate escape beneath a canopy of majestic ponderosa pines. This hidden gem in the Bitterroot National Forest welcomes adventurers to 16 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each one embraced by nature's cathedral of yellow-barked ponderosas, fragrant firs, quaking aspens, and stately lodgepole pines. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear mountain waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, paddling peaceful river bends, or simply savoring the sight of eagles soaring overhead, Rombo delivers the authentic Montana wilderness experience that memories are made of.
Rombo Campground is designed for tent camping, RV camping, and group events. The spacious campsites and natural surroundings make it a versatile destination for various camping styles.
Historical SignificanceJust a short journey from your campsite stands a remarkable piece of American conservation history—the Alta Ranger Station, proudly holding the title as the nation's very first Forest Service Ranger Station, established in 1899. This lovingly preserved landmark invites curious visitors to step back in time and discover the pioneering spirit that shaped our modern approach to forest stewardship. Through interpretive displays and authentic artifacts, the station tells the compelling story of early rangers who first protected these wild lands, making it a must-visit destination that adds depth and meaning to your Bitterroot adventure.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives at Rombo like a gentle friend, bringing warm days perfect for riverside adventures and cool, star-filled nights ideal for campfire conversations. Montana's famous big sky delivers abundant sunshine and dry conditions throughout the camping season, while autumn paints the aspens in brilliant gold. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland with light dustings of snow and crystalline air, though freezing temperatures make this a season for the heartiest souls. Late spring through summer emerges as the sweet spot for camping, when wildflowers dot the meadows, temperatures hover in that just-right zone, and the West Fork runs full and lively.
ElevationPerched at 4,600 feet where the mountain air runs crisp and clean, Rombo Campground offers a refreshing retreat from summer's heat. This perfect elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, delivering pleasantly cool temperatures even on the warmest days, while positioning you for breathtaking panoramic views of the Bitterroot's forested ridgelines and peaks. Here, morning mists dance through the pines, afternoon breezes carry the scent of sun-warmed evergreens, and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding mountains in shades of rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 4,600 feet, where ancient ponderosa pines stretch their massive trunks skyward, Rombo Campground feels like nature's own sanctuary. These gentle giants, some centuries old, create a living ceiling that filters sunlight into dancing patterns across your campsite. The peaceful ambiance is enriched by an incredible cast of wild neighbors—majestic bald eagles patrol the river corridor, while deer and elk emerge at dawn and dusk to graze in nearby meadows. Lucky visitors might glimpse a moose wading through marshy areas or catch the haunting bugle of elk echoing through the valley. The constant soundtrack of songbirds and the murmuring river complete this immersive wilderness symphony.
Geological RegionThe Bitterroot National Forest reveals its geological story through every bend of the West Fork Bitterroot River at Rombo Campground. This spectacular landscape showcases nature's diversity with groves of vanilla-scented ponderosa pines standing alongside aromatic firs, shimmering aspens, and resilient lodgepole pines. The mountainous terrain creates a mosaic of ecosystems that support an impressive array of wildlife—from the regal bald eagles that fish the river to the massive moose that browse in willow thickets. Mule deer bound through forest clearings while countless songbird species fill the air with their melodies, making this corner of Montana a living testament to the richness of the Northern Rockies ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides four accessible campsites and accessible vault toilets. Gravel parking surfaces and accessible pathways make it somewhat accommodating to individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campground includes 14 individual sites and 2 group shelters, accommodating up to 10 people and 2 vehicles per site. Sites are generally noted for being spacious.
Sites PrivacySites are described by users as well spaced, private, and quiet, with some offering direct access to the river.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site #8 for privacy or site #4 for group camping with multiple tables and river access. Sites #4 and #5 are spacious and well-shaded.
Best CampsitesSites #4 and #5 are highly recommended for their proximity to the river and spacious layout. Site #8 offers privacy with a path leading to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 people and 2 vehicles per site.
Groups
Group shelters can be reserved, accommodating up to 10 people and 2 vehicles. They are well-suited for larger groups but do not meet the minimum capacity for a dedicated group site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spaced out for privacy, some offering direct access to the river. Parking surfaces are gravel. The loop is walkable, and sites cater to tents and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 8 during peak season; closed for reservations during the remaining months. Camping is permitted in the offseason but water is unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its associated app.
Walk-in Availability3 of the 16 campsites are first-come, first-served, making it relatively easy to secure a site outside peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Modifications incur no fee unless new stay dates are entirely different.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Rombo Campground can engage in a wide range of activities. Popular options include fly fishing, wading, kayaking, and rafting in the West Fork Bitterroot River. Painted Rocks Lake, five miles from the campground, offers additional opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Hiking and biking trails are abundant, with trails leading to mountain peaks and through nearby forests. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with species like bald eagles, moose, and elk frequently observed.
Hiking
There are many hiking trails in the area that lead to mountain peaks and other scenic spots. The Alta Ranger Station nearby is an excellent source for trail information.Fishing
The West Fork Bitterroot River is ideal for fly fishing, with species like mountain whitefish and trout. However, some reviews note heavy fishing pressure and challenging conditions.Swimming
Swimming is available at Painted Rocks Lake, located five miles south of the campground.Biking
The area offers unimproved roads and trails suitable for biking. Some users recommend biking the seven miles to Painted Rocks.Boating
Boating is available at Painted Rocks Lake, where visitors can enjoy water activities like kayaking and canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with common sightings of bald eagles, mule deer, moose, elk, and bighorn sheep.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Seasonal rafting and water sports like kayaking are available in the West Fork Bitterroot River and Painted Rocks Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed unless seasonal fire restrictions apply. Visitors are encouraged to burn wood obtained near the area to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours enforced but exact times are unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, requiring food storage compliance. Seasonal fire restrictions may limit campfire use. Gravel roads can be challenging without high-clearance vehicles for nearby attractions.
Active alertsWater system has been non-functional for several years; potable water is only available at the host site. Seasonal fire restrictions and road closures may apply.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Alta Ranger Station (short distance from campground); additional services available in Darby (24 miles) featuring a hospital, police station, and fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 8, 2025
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides garbage collection services. Reviews indicate that trash is regularly collected by the camp hosts, maintaining cleanliness in the area.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the West Fork Bitterroot River, with Painted Rocks Lake five miles south offering fishing, swimming, and boating.
Common complaintsSome visitors cited frustrations with broken water spigots, gravel roads, and reservation inaccuracies on Recreation.gov. Fishing quality has declined due to heavy pressure on the river.
HostCampground hosts Sharon and Walt are frequently praised for their attentiveness and helpfulness. Past hosts like 'Rombo Rick' have also been noted for their outstanding service.
Campground Map
7443 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829, USA
Driving directionsFrom Darby, Montana drive south on Highway 93 approximately 4 miles to Road 473. Turn right and head southwest continue approximately 18 miles to the campground, which is on the right.
The campground is accessible via Road 473, approximately 18 miles southwest of Highway 93. The road conditions are gravel, and certain areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly for nearby attractions like Horse Creek Hot Springs.Nearby places
Darby (24 miles), Conner (16 miles)
Nearby supplies
Conner (16 miles) has a post office and general store
Darby (24 miles) offers fuel, lodging, grocery stores, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
35 reviews
Rombo is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Rombo Campground consistently highlight its natural beauty, spacious and private campsites, and excellent campground hosts. However, some campers have expressed dissatisfaction with the long-standing water system issues and backward-oriented RV site designs.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
Most users praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the accommodating and friendly hosts, and the overall tranquility of the campground. Commonly mentioned positives include the proximity to the...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The main concerns raised by campers include the lack of functional water spigots for several years, the backward orientation of RV sites, and occasional issues with the reservation system on...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra water due to the ongoing water system issues. Sites 4 and 5 are particularly praised for their river access and privacy, making them ideal choices. It's also noted...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer and early fall are the most popular seasons for camping at Rombo Campground. Campers appreciate the shade provided by the Ponderosa Pines during warmer months.
Based on 35 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The camp hosts were great. They kept the vault toilets clean and sanitized (best I have ever seen).' (User: Terry H) 2. 'Sites are nicely spaced out and there’s lots of shade which was...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site #4: Described as private and spacious, with three tables and direct river access. 2. Site #8: Noted for its privacy and proximity to a short path leading to the river. 3. Site #16: Praised...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features like four accessible campsites and accessible vault toilets receive positive comments. However, gravel parking surfaces may pose challenges for some visitors with mobility...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific complaints or issues related to pets are noted in the reviews.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025