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Best Campgrounds near Elk River, ID

332 Reviews

Several good campgrounds surround Elk River for those looking to spend time outdoors. Emerald Creek Campground draws many campers with its green setting and trails that start right from the camping area. Over at Dworshak State Park, you'll find different types of sites, and many campers appreciate being able to fish and boat on the reservoir. A short drive from Elk River gets you to Aquarius Campground, which tends to be quieter and has good chances to see wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer and bears in all these areas - proper food storage is essential for safety. Most people camp here between late spring and early fall when the weather cooperates and campgrounds remain open. Winter brings snow that closes some camping areas. During dry spells, fire restrictions might limit your ability to have a campfire. Some activities in the area require permits, so do your homework before arriving. If you're planning to visit during summer weekends, make reservations - spots fill up quickly. Most campgrounds let you stay between one and two weeks, giving you plenty of time to check out different spots. Tent campers and RV owners both have good options around Elk River.

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Best Camping Sites Near Elk River, Idaho (156)

    1. Dent Acres

    11 Reviews
    Ahsahka, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 476-9029

    $25 - $150 / night

    "And, your route would very likely be from south to north because the southerly route begins in Elk City, Idaho and is 85% gravel and at times pretty broken up."

    "Lits of stuff to do next to the lake take your boat and go fishing skiing and much more"

    2. Elk Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    Elk River, ID
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (208) 875-1131

    $20 / night

    "I've been coming to Elk River my whole life. If you are looking for a quiet town surrounded by forest this is the place to go."

    "Although this campground is right on the road, it also has easy access to the reservoir where you can fish, swim, and boat. There are life jackets for use here next to the dock."

    3. Freeman Creek Campground — Dworshak State Park

    9 Reviews
    Ahsahka, ID
    15 miles
    Website

    "There is also access to the reservoir for boating, fishing or to mini-camp sites all along the reservoir. Kokanee fishing is great from March to about late July."

    " 

    • Sweet little nature trails were pretty and easy for smaller children to walk through. 
    • Easy lake access is only in the park/play area."

    4. Little Boulder Campground

    6 Reviews
    Deary, ID
    13 miles
    Website

    "This campground is off the beaten track down of forest development road near Deary Idaho. A great little hidden gem."

    "But I have been here on two other occasions, as it’s close by and often is not full. There is a place to pump water which makes packing in a bit less work."

    5. Moose Creek Reservoir Access

    5 Reviews
    Deary, ID
    13 miles
    Website

    "It’s my favorite close by paid camping ground.

    There are some trails at the end of the campground that trail up and around and connect to trails that lead back to campground areas."

    "This is a campground surrounding a reservoir. This campground is pretty remote, but only 2 miles from Boville. There is easy access to the water were many people fish, swim, and canoe/kayak."

    6. Elk River Recreation District - Spur Road - Upper and Lower

    1 Review
    Elk River, ID
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 669-0528

    $16 - $25 / night

    "This campground overlooks the Elk River Reservoir. It is a great place to fish, swim, ride around, and explore the mountains."

    7. Elk River

    1 Review
    Elk River, ID
    1 mile

    "There is a small local store nearby. Dump site on edge of town with trash available. Many recreational activities too."

    8. Canyon Creek

    7 Reviews
    Orofino, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 476-1268

    "Stayed here many times and will go back again it is a great place to go and it's not far to travel to from orofino idaho for an inexpensive camp trip"

    "Beautiful secluded location. Very clean bathroom. I could make and receive phone calls but no internet service with Verizon"

    9. Partridge Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Elk River, ID
    2 miles
    Website

    "Sometimes it’s hard to find sites where you can have a person in a wheelchair move around okay. These sites are good for that according to my cousin who has camped with out family in this area."

    10. Three Meadows Group Camp — Dworshak State Park

    3 Reviews
    Ahsahka, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 476-1268

    "Cool little guided nature trail for an evening walk with out little one to learn about animal tracks"

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Recent Camping Photos near Elk River, ID

56 Photos of 156 Elk River Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Elk River, ID

332 Reviews of 156 Elk River Campgrounds

  • Devon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Elk River

    ELK RIVER IDAHO

    Many free dispersed camping site for several miles. There is also low cost Campgrounds available as well. There is a small local store nearby. Dump site on edge of town with trash available. Many recreational activities too.

  • Devon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Shadowy St. Joe Campground — Idaho Panhandle National Forests

    Great Campground

    The Shadowy St. Joe Campground is a great place to stay. It has 14 sites total. With one taken by the camp hosts, all are paved, with space for 2 vehicles each, have fire pits, and a picnic bench, and electricity. 7 sites to reserve ahead of time on the meadow side that has grass and is spacious. There are 6 first come first serve sites, 2 on the meadow side, and 4 along the river. If looking to reserve a site, the numbers start with #1 closest to the entrance on the meadow side and grow larger in counter clockwise fashion. There is a day use area you can also reserve, with charcoal grills, and multiple picnic benches. There are several vault toilets and all are kept very clean by the 2 wonderful park hosts. There is a boat launch area for day use, with a small fee, but if camping there is no extra charge. There is 2 docks and if staying multiple days you can leave your boat on the dock overnight. It is supposed to be a no wake zone, but the signs have warn down, so we lost a bumper to our boat from crashing into the dock, from passing boat wakes. There is a couple of potable water stations available, with small hose spouts, but no water hookups at the sites. The sites are electric with 50amp, 30amp, and 110 plugs available. No sewer hookup at the sites, but there is a dump station at the fairgrounds in the town of St. Maries about 10 miles away. Phone service is spotty, texting easier and lots of dropped calls, but we like to unplug when camping. Dogs are allowed with no limits, just to stay on leashes at all times. The Lazy St. Joe River is boat passable up to St. Joe City, and all the way to Lake Coeur d'Alene if you want to adventure for a full day in the boat. Great for fishing too. Make sure to have Idaho invasive species tag for the boat if you are from out of state. The Sheriff and Park Rangers patrol daily and check. St. Maries has 2 grocery stores, and sports shop where you can get supplies, and fishing licenses. The town also has great shops, a swimming pool, parks, restaurants, and ATM/banks. This is a great little gem in the Gem State.

  • #1 National R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Soaring Hawk RV Resort

    Soaring Hawk Rv Park

    We love the park, people are very friendly. Very close to Heyburn State Park

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Great Park especially for the Price

    Full hookups bathroom and showers. In a canyon on river. Number 8 has river view but not much shade. Other sites with much shade.

  • mike L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Easy to camp here

    This campground is just off Highway 12 in Western Idaho and very convenient. It’s a little close to the road but the traffic seems to be pretty quiet at 8:30 at night. It’s right by the river, which is very nice and it seems like there is good fishing in this river so that may be a plus. I do recommend this campground.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Shadowy St. Joe Campground — Idaho Panhandle National Forests

    Shadowy St Joe

    We parked next to the river. No trouble with red noise in the spot, but on the other side is closer to the road. The park was clean and appears well managed. Vault toilets spaced a appropriately throughout the small campground. They were clean and without odor. Is out about 8 to 10 miles from Saint Marie, which has two small grocery stores, laundromat, and car wash. If ever in the area would stay here again. Has Electric and drinking water at a nominal price.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Chatcolet Campground — Heyburn State Park

    2025 Aug Review

    Campground is super clean, flushable toilets, metal picnic tables, fire rings all in good shape. Spots are fairly close so you can see your neighbors but there are trees and brush which helps. Frequented by young families so don’t be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing. Camp spot 123 was right next to the Camp Host spot but that wasn’t a bad thing at all.

  • D
    Aug. 8, 2025

    McKay's Bend Recreation Site

    Norm is a great host

    Beautiful, well kept grounds. If you have a seniors America The Beautiful pass, $9 gets you full hookups, showers and toilets. Short drive to town. Norm (host) is awesome and full of knowledge. Nice fishing river on the Northern side of the camp. Will come back.

Guide to Elk River

Camping near Elk River, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially at Deyo Reservoir. One camper mentioned, "We caught lots of bluegill, trout but no bass!" This spot is perfect for families looking to reel in some fish.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Emerald Creek Campground. A visitor shared, "There’s a lot of nice areas to hike, water rafting, and fishing activities." It's a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
  • Boating: If you have a boat, check out Canyon Creek. One reviewer said, "Swimming in the lake at the foot of a mountain was sublime." Perfect for a day on the water!

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Freeman Creek Campground — Dworshak State Park, a visitor noted, "The restrooms are very clean with only 2 showers!" Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. One camper at Little Boulder Campground mentioned, "It’s not uncommon to get the place to yourself!" This is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Beautiful views: Campers rave about the stunning scenery. A review for Canyon Creek said, "My site was gorgeous, looking out over the lake!" Nature lovers will find plenty to admire.

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Aquarius Campground, have minimal facilities. A visitor warned, "Do not recommend large rigs in here, it would be hard to turn around if the campground is full." Be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Road conditions: Accessing some campgrounds can be tricky. One camper at Freeman Creek Campground advised, "Google maps wrecked us...had NO warnings that we would be driving up the narrowest gravel road with an 11% incline!" Always check your route before heading out.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife. A camper at Emerald Creek Campground noted, "The forest is very dense and filled with wolves, couple mountain lions, and a few bears." It's important to be cautious and respectful of nature.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with play areas. One review for Dent Acres mentioned, "There is a play area with jungle gym equipment for kids." This can keep the little ones entertained.
  • Nature exploration: Encourage kids to explore nature. A camper at Freeman Creek Campground said, "We still enjoyed the water and had a ton of fun finding tadpoles." Nature can be a great teacher!
  • Safety first: Always supervise children near water. A visitor at Deyo Reservoir mentioned, "There is a small beach near the launch ramp!" Make sure they stay safe while having fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A camper at Spring Valley Reservoir noted, "This can be a nice place depending on how busily you catch it." Some sites may be more suitable for smaller rigs.
  • Electric hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. One reviewer at Pink House Recreation Site mentioned, "Excellent campground with full hookups at a good price." This can make your stay more comfortable.
  • Plan for crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy. A visitor at Canyon Creek said, "Despite being out of the way, this campground was completely full." Arrive early to secure a good spot.

Camping around Elk River, Idaho, has something for everyone. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just enjoying the great outdoors, you'll find plenty of options to make your trip memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Elk River, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, Elk River, ID offers a wide range of camping options, with 156 campgrounds and RV parks near Elk River, ID and 16 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Elk River, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elk River, ID is Dent Acres with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elk River, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Elk River, ID.

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