Lake Como Lower Campground - Darby

Lake Como Lower Campground is located southwest of Hamilton, Montana at an elevation of 4,500 feet. It is a large irrigation reservoir which lies in a beautiful canyon. During irrigation season it is drawn down and activities may fluctuate according to water levels. The campground has 11 pull-through paved sites with electrical and water hookup, and one group site. Can accommodate trailers up to 125 feet. There is a fee for campground use.

Three of these campsites are accessible to disabled individuals. The campground is designed to provide a barrier free access for disable users at designated sites. Paved roads and paved parking provide an accessible route to campground facilities. Restrooms, drinking water and garbage removal services provided. Please limit your stay to 14 days.

Swimming, fishing, boating and water skiing are popular sports at the lake. The swimming area has beach access and is roped off from the rest of the lake. There is a hikers' trail which leads along the north side to an unimproved campground above some falls at the head of the lake.

Lake Como dam was constructed in 1905 to provide late season irrigation for the Bitterroot Valley. The lake is typically at full pool from early spring through mid-July.

From Memorial Day through Labor Day all vehicles parked within the recreation area must display a valid Recreation Pass. Recreation Passes are $5/day per vehicle or $30/season. Senior Passports are honored at all day use fee sites.

The Lake Como Recreation Area has a variety of day, overnight, extended backpacking, motorized, and non-motorized use. Below are a descriptions of the other facilities at Lake Como:

Rock Creek Horse Camp has 11 sites, 4 of which are pull-through. Hitch rails, feed troughs, accessible toilets, garbage, no water. One group site with large fire ring, parking for 5 vehicles.

Rock Creek Trailhead has parking areas, accessible toilet, accessible loading ramp, no water. This trailhead access the south half of the Lake Como National Recreation Trail. Stock allowed on south side of lake only.

The Boat Launch at Lake Como Recreation Area has 40 boat and 8 passenger vehicle parking spots, accessible toilets, dock, no overnight camping or water. Water adequate for boating mid-June through mid-August depending on the water level.

Creekside dispersed area is an overflow overnight/day area with one fire ring and outhouse.

Lake Como Beach has two parking areas for a total of 83 vehicles, accessible toilets, dressing room, picnic tables, garbage, water, and designated swim area. No dogs allowed on beach.

The Picnic Area has parking for 17 vehicles, accessible toilet, picnic tables, pedestal grills, and a fire ring.

Lake Como National Recreation Trailhead has parking for 17 vehicles, accessible toilet, picnic tables, pedestal grills, and water. Trailhead access a paved 1/4-mile interpretative trail (1/2 mile after that is unpaved), lakeside picnic sites, and the 7-mile Lake Como National Recreation Trail. Trail is popular for hiking, day use, and mountain biking.

For more information please contact the Darby Ranger District at 406-821-3913.