Elk Fork Campground
4.0710 reviewsElk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA
Elk Fork Campground
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
The campsite fee is $15 per night for single units, as per authoritative sources. User reviews mention tent site rates of $10 per day.
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About this campground
Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the Shoshone River, Elk Fork Campground beckons adventurers with 13 intimate, rustic sites just 25 miles from Yellowstone's East Entrance. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the magnificent Washakie Wilderness, where towering peaks and pristine forests await. Equestrian enthusiasts will delight in the convenient corrals at the Elk Fork trailhead, making this the perfect basecamp for horseback adventures into the backcountry. Far from the crowds yet close to wonder, Elk Fork offers that rare combination of accessibility and seclusion that seasoned outdoor enthusiasts treasure.
Elk Fork Campground offers 13 combined tent and RV sites, catering to equestrian enthusiasts with horse corrals and a rustic, secluded atmosphere.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Elk Fork places you within the storied landscapes of Shoshone National Forest, America's first national forest and a testament to our nation's conservation legacy. This region, embracing the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, has witnessed centuries of human history—from ancient Native American hunting grounds to the paths of early mountain men and the birth of the American conservation movement. The ecological significance of this area cannot be overstated, serving as a vital wildlife corridor and preserving some of the last truly wild places in the Lower 48.
Weather and SeasonsSummer mornings at Elk Fork greet you with crisp mountain air and temperatures in the refreshing 40s°F, perfect for that first cup of campfire coffee. As the day unfolds, comfortable highs around 70°F create ideal conditions for hiking and exploring. When winter transforms this landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, temperatures plunge below freezing, and heavy snowfall blankets the forest in pristine white. Each season paints the campground in dramatically different hues, from summer's vibrant greens to autumn's golden aspens and winter's crystalline beauty.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Elk Fork Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat and a true mountain experience. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where cool mountain breezes whisper through the trees even on the warmest days, and nights bring that special high-altitude chill that makes campfires and sleeping bags feel extra cozy. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, reminding you that you've truly escaped to the high country.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's rustic charm is perfectly complemented by its stunning natural setting, where graceful Narrow Leaf cottonwoods dance alongside ancient junipers along the Shoshone River's banks. This enchanting riverside location offers the soothing soundtrack of flowing water and rustling leaves, creating nature's perfect symphony. As the launching point for the renowned Elk Fork Trail, the campground opens doors to the vast Washakie Wilderness, where untamed beauty and solitude reign supreme. Here, the landscape shifts from intimate riverside groves to expansive mountain vistas, offering photographers and nature lovers endless inspiration.
Geological RegionCarved by the persistent waters of the Shoshone River, this corner of Shoshone National Forest showcases nature's artistic hand in every vista. The unique blend of Narrow Leaf cottonwoods and weathered junipers tells the story of a transitional ecosystem, where mountain meets river valley in perfect harmony. The Elk Fork Trail winds from this geological crossroads into the heart of the Washakie Wilderness, where ancient rock formations and glacial valleys reveal millions of years of Earth's history. This dramatic landscape serves as both playground and classroom for those eager to explore the raw beauty of Wyoming's high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThis site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeMaximum spur size is 22 feet.
Sites PrivacySites provide some separation and privacy. A user remarked, "Just enough space between neighbors." Another noted, "West side sites border a creek, and the East side sites have lots of shade."
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for tents and small trailers due to size constraints and limitations for large RVs or trailers.
Best CampsitesWest-side sites bordering the creek are highly rated by visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
16 days stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum spur length of 22 feet limits site capacity.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutStraight layout without loops, limiting space for maneuvering large vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonServices provided May 8 through September 30. Open 24 hours per day.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms; all sites are walk-up only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 13 sites are walk-up only; no reservation system available.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations available; walk-up sites only.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Elk Fork Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, emphasizing hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. The Elk Fork Trail provides access to the Washakie Wilderness, and the nearby Shoshone River is good for fishing.
Hiking
The Elk Fork Trail (#760) extends 18 miles and is used for hiking and horseback riding. It provides access to the Washakie Wilderness.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby North Fork of the Shoshone River, offering a variety of trout. However, fishing is not permitted in Elk Fork Creek.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. A user noted, "I saw a grizzly bear by the river during my ride." Park hosts provide tips on wildlife and bear safety.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No explicit fire policies mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bear country; campers must practice safe food storage techniques.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Cody, Wyoming, approximately 27 miles away. Includes hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof containers are provided for food storage and trash disposal. Campers must adhere to food storage regulations due to grizzly bear activity.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Shoshone River. West-side campsites border the creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention difficulties for large RVs due to non-looped layout and overgrown greenery. Complaints about strict park ranger enforcement.
HostPark host is available and noted for providing helpful advice on wildlife safety and area exploration.
Campground Map
Elk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cody, WY, take US Route 14/16/20 west 27.1 miles to the campground sign. Turn left at the sign into the campground.
Accessible via US Route 14/16/20, which is a paved highway. Parking aprons are paved and gravel. Not recommended for large RVs or trailers over 22 feet due to limited space and straight, non-looped layout.Nearby places
Cody (27.1 miles, approximately 30 minutes), East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park (25 miles, approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
RV waste stations with potable water and fee are located at Buffalo Bill State Park on US Route 14/16/20. Additional RV waste stations, gas, and supplies are available at the Yellowstone RV Center/Sinclair gas station in Cody, Wyoming.
Camper Reviews
4.1
10 reviews
Elk Fork Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Elk Fork Campground as clean, quiet, and well-maintained, with good separation between sites. It is praised for its rustic nature and proximity to Yellowstone and other attractions.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean vault toilets, spacious sites, a welcoming and helpful park host, and scenic views along the creek. Many campers appreciated the rustic and peaceful environment.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback mentioned lack of potable water, overgrown vegetation, challenges for large RVs due to limited maneuverability, and occasional unfriendly encounters with rangers.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water, adhering to bear safety practices, and exploring the trail network. Sites along the creek are favored for their scenic views.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight its proximity to Yellowstone and cooler temperatures. Winter use is limited due to freezing conditions. Spring and fall are favored for fewer crowds and abundant wildlife...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "This is a hidden, small little gem just 20 miles outside the east gate (Cody) of Yellowstone." 2. "The cleanest vault toilets I’ve used." 3. "The campground host was very friendly and helpful,...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
West side sites border the creek and have scenic views, while East side sites offer more shade. Some sites can fit 30' RVs but maneuverability is challenging.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
This campground is explicitly noted as not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025