Slate Creek Campground
01 review6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829
Slate Creek Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
No fees are required for the site itself. Overnight use fees are $10 per single site and $5 per additional vehicle. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount, applicable only to the single campsite occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Tucked away in the majestic Bitterroot National Forest, Slate Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where towering pines whisper overhead and the pristine waters of Painted Rocks Lake sparkle just moments away. This charming 13-site campground perfectly balances accessibility with wilderness tranquility. The front loop welcomes adventurers year-round with 4 hardy campsites that brave even winter's embrace, while the back loop's 9 seasonal sites (June through September 30) come alive with summer's warmth. Each site features thoughtfully placed picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies, with convenient vault toilets nearby. Whether you're arriving with a cozy trailer or small RV (up to 25 feet), you'll find just enough modern comfort to enhance your mountain retreat without sacrificing the authentic outdoor experience.
Slate Creek Campground offers a mix of tent sites and RV/trailer sites, suitable for a range of camping preferences. The campground is divided into two loops, with 13 total campsites.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full dramatic range at Slate Creek, where each season paints the landscape with its own distinctive palette. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-laden wonderland, perfect for those seeking solitude and pristine beauty. As spring awakens the forest, expect refreshing rain showers and crisp mornings that gradually warm into spectacular summer days. Summer brings those perfect camping conditions—warm afternoons ideal for lake activities followed by cool evenings around the campfire. Autumn arrives with a flourish of golden larches and crimson undergrowth, though temperatures can shift quickly from pleasant afternoons to frosty nights, reminding visitors to pack layers for comfort.
ElevationPerched among the peaks and valleys of Montana's mountainous backbone, Slate Creek Campground sits at an elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. While specific elevation details await confirmation, visitors can expect that refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures that make high-country camping so invigorating.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient evergreens create cathedral-like canopies and Painted Rocks Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks in its crystal-clear waters. The dense forest ecosystem surrounding Slate Creek pulses with life—from the flutter of mountain bluebirds to the occasional glimpse of deer threading through the understory. Anglers will find themselves drawn to the lake's promising waters, while hikers discover endless opportunities to explore the rugged mountain terrain that defines this corner of the Bitterroot. Every sunrise brings new possibilities for wildlife encounters, and every sunset paints the forest in golden hues that remind you why Montana's wilderness remains legendary.
Geological RegionSlate Creek Campground rests in the heart of the Bitterroot National Forest's geological wonderland, where ancient forces carved dramatic peaks and valleys that continue to inspire awe. The surrounding mountainous terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, with rugged ridgelines and pristine water bodies like Painted Rocks Lake serving as testament to glacial artistry. Dense coniferous forests blanket the slopes, thriving in the unique microclimate created by this convergence of mountain and water. This remarkable landscape offers more than scenic beauty—it's a living classroom of Rocky Mountain geology where every rock formation and forest grove reveals the powerful natural forces that shaped the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for disabled visitors are not specified in the provided materials.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate RVs or trailers up to 25 feet.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is not explicitly described in the source materials.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near Painted Rocks Lake in the back loop likely have better views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping limited to 16 consecutive days.
Groups
Details about group camping are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout consists of two loops: the front loop (4 sites) and the back loop (9 sites).
Open and Closed SeasonFront loop is open year-round, snow dependent. Back loop is open June through September 30th.
Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation system; all sites appear to be first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up and first-come, first-served. No reservation system is in place.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Slate Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities nearby, with a focus on water-based and traditional outdoor pursuits.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at both the nearby Painted Rocks Lake and the surrounding streams or rivers. The types of fish and the quality of fishing are not described in detail.Swimming
User reviews suggest that the area is suitable for swimming. Specific facilities or designated swimming areas are not detailed.Boating
Motorized boating is available on Painted Rocks Lake, which is near the campground. There are no details about boat rental services, ramps, or docking facilities.Winter Activities
The front loop of the campground is open year-round depending on snow conditions, which may allow for winter activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, but these are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Motorized boating is available at Painted Rocks Lake, but other water sports (e.g., kayaking or paddleboarding) are not specified.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSnow-dependent access and lack of potable water pose challenges. Wildlife like bears may be present due to the forested nature of the area.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
West Fork Ranger District (6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829, Phone: 406-821-3269) is the nearest ranger station. For other emergencies, services in Darby, MT are the likely next option.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune through September for the back loop.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities or arrangements are not mentioned in the provided information.
Proximity to water featuresNear Painted Rocks Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and motorized boating.
Common complaintsSome users may find the lack of potable water an inconvenience.
HostNo explicit mention of campground hosts.
Campground Map
6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829
Driving directionsFrom Darby Montana drive south on state Highway 93. Then, turn south (right) on West Fork Road (towards Painted Rocks State Park). Travel approximately 23.6 miles. The campground is located on the east (left) side of the road.
The road leading to the campground is paved and accessible year-round for the front loop, weather permitting. The back loop is open seasonally from June through September 30th. Snow conditions in winter may impact access.Nearby places
Darby, MT - 23.6 miles (~30 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Darby, MT, approximately 23.6 miles away. Groceries, fuel, and camping gear are available in the town.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Slate Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews generally highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Painted Rocks Lake, making it a great spot for swimming and enjoying nature.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Beautiful and peaceful." - Proximity to Painted Rocks Lake. - Suitable for swimming and camping.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No significant complaints are provided in the user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the lake for swimming or boating.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The front loop is open year-round, subject to snow conditions, while the back loop is open seasonally (June to September 30). Seasonal variations in accessibility may influence visitor experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful and peaceful. Great place to swim and camp." - Betty Kelly
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews specific to particular campsites or areas within the campground are provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed per campground rules. No specific feedback from pet owners is provided.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025