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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.
"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"
from $25 - $150 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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."
"This campground overlooks the Elk River Reservoir. It is a great place to fish, swim, ride around, and explore the mountains."
from $16 - $25 / night
Check Availability"There is a small local store nearby. Dump site on edge of town with trash available. Many recreational activities too."
"Stayed here many times and will go back again it is a great place to go and it's not far to travel to from orofino idaho for an inexpensive camp trip"
"Beautiful secluded location. Very clean bathroom. I could make and receive phone calls but no internet service with Verizon"
"Sometimes it’s hard to find sites where you can have a person in a wheelchair move around okay. These sites are good for that according to my cousin who has camped with out family in this area."
"Cool little guided nature trail for an evening walk with out little one to learn about animal tracks"
ScoutClean, beautiful spacious the people that own the campground are friendly and helpful. It’s a great place to camp the real bonus is there’s food there so you don’t have to do any cooking. It’s delicious!
GuideWe visited here in mid June. This was a bit early and required some chainsaw use on FR500 trail. We were the only ones there except for a few day visitors. The lake and ridge above the lake are beautiful and definitely worth the trip. It’s a primitive campground with fire pit and picnic table. Plan to bring everything you need for your stay with you and pack out your garbage.
You can call the Lolo Pass Visitor Center at (208) 942-3113 to get updates on the status of the Lolo Motorway (FR500) before your trip.
TravelerThe staff was so nice & friendly. Spots right on the water and super clean & well kept across the whole park. It is right next to a motel that got a bit loud at night but if you stay at a lot further from the motel I’m sure you wouldn’t hear it. Overall such a great spot, we loved it!
RangerDrove to this camp ground. It is a beautiful place, unfortunately its closed without reason. But it is what it is
RangerNice little camp ground. 12$ a night. A few other campers around but still have space on either side of my van. Picnic benches at each site
ScoutFantastic camp spots with good tree cover, plenty of docks for fishing at the local lake. Town nearby, and not to far off the main road. Note that there are pit toilets in the loops and flush toilets at the main shower
ScoutThis campground has 3 overnight campgrounds and a day use area. Toilet is available but bring your own toilet paper just in case. Day use area has access to the creek.
TravelerPopular park with families, so it's a bit loud until around midnight. The tenting areas near the lake (and the RV area) are exposed to a lot of wind. There are about 4 sites (near the trailhead) that are back in the trees and significantly less windy. No skeeters when we were there (early June), but I suspect they're there once summer heats up. Short trail around the lake is nice for waterfowl viewing, and if you're a fisherman I saw some nice strings of trout being carried. Seems to get some slob campers -- had to clean out a campfire ring near our site because it was full of scorched cans. Site 15 had a nice area to hang our hammocks for sleeping, and even though it was right near the trailhead, the hikers were quiet and polite. If you're just looking for a camping site near Moscow, it's acceptable.
GuideA little off 95. A beautiful drive. The place is so immaculate. Mr. Norm Jenson prides himself with caring for this place as his own. On the Clearwater River.
Dispersed camping sites near Elk River, Idaho provide access to the Dworshak Reservoir and surrounding Clearwater National Forest. The area sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter brings significant snowfall that can exceed 100 inches annually, making many camping areas inaccessible from November through April.
Garnet hunting excursions: At Emerald Creek Campground, visitors can search for Idaho's state gem. "There was only one other group at the site, but all the tent spots were well spaced apart. The creek was nice background noise. It is also lots of fun to go look for garnets in the creek! Idaho's state gem!" according to Celine K.
Fishing for record catches: The reservoir waters near Freeman Creek Campground offer exceptional fishing opportunities. Cody B. notes, "Kokanee fishing is great from March to about late July. The spawn begins in August, so the fish move up the reservoir as the season progresses. Smallmouth bass fishing is great! The Idaho state Smallmouth record was caught in this lake."
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple trail networks connect camping areas for day hikes of varying difficulty. Rachel G. mentions that Little Boulder Creek Campground has "a short trail that encircles the campground with a longer hike across the road from the campground which follows the river."
Secluded waterfront sites: Canyon Creek Campground provides camping directly overlooking the reservoir. Angie B. shares, "My site was gorgeous, looking out over the lake! The Campground was very clean and quiet. Vault toilet was well maintained. Swimming in the lake at the foot of a mountain was sublime."
Organized group facilities: Many campers appreciate the pavilions and group areas available at certain campgrounds. Hannah C. points out that Elk Creek Campground has "a wonderful pavilion just across the road which is perfect for large gatherings."
Reliable cellular service: Some camping areas maintain phone connectivity despite their remote locations. At Canyon Creek, Kristi D. reports, "I could make and receive phone calls but no internet service with Verizon."
Road conditions and access: Some campgrounds require navigating steep or rough roads. At Dent Acres, Theresa L. advises, "Make sure your brakes are good on your truck or vehicle because the roads can be steep."
Seasonal water levels: The reservoir experiences significant drawdowns throughout the summer. Brett B. observed at Canyon Creek, "The reservoir level is way down! Just getting to the water is a challenge."
Gate closure times: Be aware of specific campground policies. Mike E. notes about Little Boulder Campground, "They lock the gate to the campground at 10:00 p.m. and don't open it until the morning unless you contact the campground host."
Playground access: Three Meadows Group Camp offers amenities geared toward children. According to Ashley C., "The kids love it and the grown up worry less at such a family appropriate park."
Educational trails: Some campgrounds feature interpretive paths for children. Greg G. mentions, "Cool little guided nature trail for an evening walk with out little one to learn about animal tracks."
Accessibility considerations: For families with mobility concerns, certain campgrounds are better suited. Megan K. notes about Partridge Creek Campground, "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."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. Annell N. warns about Moose Creek Reservoir Access, "There are some campsites that are uneven and can scrape if not careful."
Hookup availability: Electric connections are limited but available at select campgrounds. Craig S. reports about Dent Acres, "Had full hookups and the quality of all the facilities are great, modern and functional."
Length restrictions: Larger RVs may have difficulty at certain campgrounds. Mike E. advises about Little Boulder Creek, "Most spots are level or very near level. Easy to back in and set up trailers, although some of the back ins are probably a little short if your trailer is over 32 ft."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Elk River campground located in Idaho?
Elk River is located in north-central Idaho, in the heart of the Clearwater National Forest. Elk Creek Campground is situated in this small, quiet town surrounded by forest. The area offers easy access to natural attractions like the Giant Cedar Grove (home to the largest cedar tree in North America) and Elk Creek Falls. Not far from Elk River, you'll find Dent Acres campground, accessible via the scenic Dent Bridge that crosses over the Dworshak Reservoir as you head north.
Is there an RV park at Elk River Idaho?
While Elk River itself is a small town with limited dedicated RV facilities, there are several nearby options for RV campers. Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake offers full hookups with plenty of pull-through spaces, clean facilities, and friendly staff. Though not directly in Elk River, it's within reasonable driving distance and provides access to beautiful bike paths along the river. Hells Canyon Resort is another excellent option for RV travelers, featuring clean, well-maintained facilities including a banquet room, game room, pool, and laundry services, all within reach of the Elk River area.
What amenities are available at Elk River campgrounds in Idaho?
Elk River Recreation District - Spur Road - Upper and Lower offers well-maintained camping areas that overlook the Elk River Reservoir. These campgrounds provide a variety of spaces to accommodate different camping preferences. The sites are ideal for fishing, swimming, and exploring the surrounding mountains. Nearby, Freeman Creek Campground — Dworshak State Park offers options for all camping levels including tent sites, RV/trailer sites, and a few small primitive cabins. This location also provides access to the reservoir for boating, fishing, and mini-camp sites along the water.
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