Elk River, ID is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Elk River is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Idaho camping adventure.
"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."
"While this is not my favorite spot, it’s very close to where I live. This is my go to spot when I just want to get a quick overnight camp in."
"This campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek."
"There are secluded dispersed campsites on Big Creek between the campgrounds on Big Creek RD. If you're set up for off grid its definitely worth spending a few days fly fishing or hiking the area."
"Great peaceful mountain lake setting with elk often on the hillside above located on the historic lolo motorway not suitable for low clearance vehicles but it is a beautiful place to go get away"
"There was a cow moose feeding in the lake when we were there. She would stomp around up to her neck in the lake, then eat the plants that would float to the surface."
"Camping is prohibited from spring to mid July. Not the best spot for swimming due to the current in this section of the river but good enough to wade in and cool off anyway."
"By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"
GuideThis is primitive off grid camping. No services, no water, no tables, just a bathroom in a field with a few campsites around it near the creek. Great location to stay if you're doing the Hiawatha trail and want to camp in the area. The busses picking up hiawatha trail users go right by the campground multiple times a day in the summer.
TravelerBy far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water! Me and my friends stayed at the lower lake, both hammock and tent camping.
RangerWhile this is not my favorite spot, it’s very close to where I live. This is my go to spot when I just want to get a quick overnight camp in. I will be returning here soon and will take photos to share.
Depending on the time of year it can be loud as motorists past. However, I have wondered into it wilderness to camp farther away from the trail.
The coordinates from this listing are incorrect and take you down the wrong road.
Laird Park is just down the road and you can get to nice river areas from both campsites. If you can’t get a spot here you can always try down by Laird as a backup.
GuideThis campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek. There is one vault toilet and two fire rings with grills, but also a couple more spots with just rock rings. We tent camped last year and RV camped this time. Very nice!
RangerGreat peaceful mountain lake setting with elk often on the hillside above located on the historic lolo motorway not suitable for low clearance vehicles but it is a beautiful place to go get away
ScoutFound this great little riverside spot while checking out the paid campgrounds along St Joe River. Saw several similar sites that were already taken. This one has a small boat launch and several fire pits. Camping is prohibited from spring to mid July. Not the best spot for swimming due to the current in this section of the river but good enough to wade in and cool off anyway. We slept in a tent and loved the river sounds. There were some mosquitoes but with bugspray it was fine.
TravelerThere was a cow moose feeding in the lake when we were there. She would stomp around up to her neck in the lake, then eat the plants that would float to the surface.
RangerBeautiful mountain lake setting high in the mountains.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Elk River, Idaho, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping at Elk River, Idaho?
Dispersed camping in the Elk River area follows standard Forest Service regulations: pack in, pack out all trash, and leave no trace. At Dispersed Site on St. Joe River Rd, camping is prohibited from spring to mid-July, indicating seasonal restrictions exist in the region. Saint Joe NF Dispersed Camping areas are generally free but require self-contained waste management. Campfires should only be built in existing fire rings. Typically, the 14-day stay limit applies throughout National Forest lands. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they change seasonally. Most dispersed sites have no reservation system and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What amenities are available for dispersed campers at Elk River, Idaho?
Dispersed camping around Elk River offers minimal amenities, as is typical with off-grid camping. At Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed, you'll find basic vault toilets in a field setting, but no water services or tables. Similarly, Donkey Creek Campground provides vault toilets and some fire rings with grills, while being situated near flowing water (Marble Creek). Most dispersed sites in the area feature established fire rings, but you'll need to bring your own water, cooking equipment, and sanitation supplies. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent. Plan to be entirely self-sufficient with all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal methods.
Where can I find dispersed camping sites along Elk River in Idaho?
Dispersed camping options near Elk River in Idaho include Big Creek, Calder, Idaho which offers secluded sites between established campgrounds along Big Creek Road, perfect for off-grid camping and fly fishing. For those seeking mountain lake settings, Rocky Ridge Lake Campground provides peaceful dispersed sites with opportunities to spot wildlife like elk and moose. The area around St. Joe River also contains numerous dispersed camping options. When searching for sites, look for established fire rings which often indicate dispersed camping areas. Most dispersed sites in the region require high-clearance vehicles to access, so prepare accordingly.
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