How much does camping cost at Elk Wallow Campground?

Camping fees at Elk Wallow Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Elk Wallow Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Elk Wallow Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. null

What is the best time to visit Elk Wallow Campground?

Elk Wallow Campground is open null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Elk Wallow Campground?

Elk Wallow Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Elk Wallow Campground?

Fire policies at Elk Wallow Campground: null. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Elk Wallow Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Elk Wallow Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Elk Wallow Campground?

Elk Wallow Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Elk Wallow Campground?

Popular activities at Elk Wallow Campground include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Elk Wallow Campground

3.91

11 reviews

null

Featured in:Beach Camping Colorado Fishing Colorado Fall Camping Colorado +2 more

Quick Facts

8,829 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,829 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Elk Wallow Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single Site: $20 per night

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

nullnull

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Elk Wallow Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

null

Elk Wallow Campground

null

Nearby places

Basalt (approximately 28 miles, travel time not specified)

Nearby supplies

null

Weather at Elk Wallow Campground

Best Time to Camp at Elk Wallow Campground

July and August are the safest bet. Daytime temps run 60s to low 80s, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms roll in regularly, so fish or hike in the morning. Snowpack clears the approach roads by midsummer, and the creek flows steadily for anglers. Spring and fall are shorter windows at this elevation. Winter buries the campground under heavy snow, closing access entirely for most visitors.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

July–August are safest; cool days, chilly nights, but afternoon thunderstorms common.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: null

About Elk Wallow Campground

Elk Wallow Campground sits at 8,829 feet in White River National Forest, a primitive spot where North Fork Mormon Creek runs through a quiet pocket of evergreens. The campground accommodates tents, small trailers, and pickup campers. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings, and vault toilets are kept remarkably clean. You won't find water, showers, or pavement. Open-range cattle sometimes wander through camp overnight.

The campground supports tent camping, RV camping for small trailers, and pickup campers. It caters to primitive camping with no modern facilities like hookups or flush toilets.

Weather and SeasonsJuly and August are the safest bet. Daytime temps run 60s to low 80s, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Afternoon thunderstorms roll in regularly, so fish or hike in the morning. Snowpack clears the approach roads by midsummer, and the creek flows steadily for anglers. Spring and fall are shorter windows at this elevation. Winter buries the campground under heavy snow, closing access entirely for most visitors.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryNorth Fork Mormon Creek carves through the campground, providing trout fishing and a constant low hum. Tall conifers surround the sites in a natural bowl. At nearly 9,000 feet, the forest stays cool and green through summer. Mornings bring mist off the creek. Nights deliver dark skies with minimal light pollution. The cattle that graze the open range add an unexpected layer of rusticity, whether you find that charming or disruptive.

Geological RegionTucked within the expansive White River National Forest, Elk Wallow Campground occupies a special corner of Colorado's high country where solitude still reigns supreme. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering evergreens, while North Fork Mormon Creek carves its ancient path through the landscape, providing both a soothing soundtrack and prime fishing waters. This primitive sanctuary offers a rare glimpse into the untamed beauty that defines Colorado's backcountry, far from the crowds and commotion of more developed recreation areas.

Scenic Viewsnull

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not provide hotel-style lodging accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

Group camping is not specifically supported at Elk Wallow Campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutnull

Reservation Platformsnull

Walk-in Availabilitynull

Cancellation Policynull

Site SizeThe campsites can accommodate autos, pickup campers, tents, and small trailers. Some sites are spacious enough for 'a few tents or a large one,' as noted by user reviews.

PrivacyThe campsites are not closely packed, providing a modest amount of privacy, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned, 'The campsites aren't too close to each other.

Recommended Sitesnull

Best Campsitesnull

Amenities available

No hook ups available. Camping units for autos, pickup campers, tents, and small trailers. One vault type toilet. Camping units have tables, fire rings, and parking spurs. Campground roads are not paved.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Elk Wallow Campground include fishing and picnicking. While the remote, quiet setting might encourage relaxation and wildlife viewing, no specific trails or additional activities are highlighted.

Fishing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews highlight the presence of open-range cattle that may visit campsites, potentially causing disturbances during the night.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this location.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Elk Wallow Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.9

11 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Elk Wallow Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, reviews highlight the campground's quiet setting and its blend of simplicity and natural charm. There are positive remarks about the cleanliness of facilities and the well-maintained area. Some users note the presence of cattle due to the open range, which can be a unique or bothersome experience depending on individual preferences.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

- Quiet and secluded atmosphere - 'Very well maintained' as noted by a user. - 'Toilets were super clean,' according to an August 2023 review. - Campsites offer enough space for multiple tents at...

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

- Proximity to a road: While the traffic is minimal, some may find this less appealing. - Open range for cattle: 'We had many visitors all throughout the night,' as noted by a user.

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Be prepared for cattle roaming through the campsite. - Ensure self-sufficiency due to the lack of potable water, showers, and other modern amenities.

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campsites aren't too close to each other and some offer enough flat space for a few tents or a large one.' 2. 'Although right next to a road, the traffic is minimal.' 3. 'Very well...

Based on 11 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews explicitly mention experiences with pets or pet policies.

Based on 11 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Anglers and self-sufficient tent campers who want a cool, quiet summer base for fishing North Fork Mormon Creek and don't need water, showers, or hookups. First-come-first-served and free makes it easy to commit.

Skip if

Light sleepers will have a hard time here. Open-range cattle wander through sites overnight, and there's no potable water on-site, so anyone unprepared to haul their own supply will be short by day two.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.7

(361)

Chapman Campground And Group

FRYING PAN RIVER RD

Chapman Campground sits at 8,600 feet along the Fryingpan River in White River National Forest, operated by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District near Basalt. This large alpine campground offers tent sites, RV spots, and group camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers fish for trout in the river, hike into high country, and watch wildlife in the cool summer mornings and warm afternoons.

$30.00 - $260.00 / night

MOLLIE B WHITE RIVER, SOPRIS RANGER DISTRICT, CARBONDALE, CO, 81623, USA

Dearhamer Campground sits along the Fryingpan River near Ruedi Reservoir in White River National Forest, operated by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District. This high-elevation alpine campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, and a camp store. Campers hike, bike, and watch wildlife in an area known for fall aspen color and access to river and reservoir fishing.

$29.00 - $29.00 / night

3.9

(32)

Gold Park Campground

White River National Forest

Gold Park Campground sits in the White River National Forest near Minturn, offering small-scale alpine camping along Homestake Creek with direct access to Holy Cross Wilderness trailheads. Operated by the Forest Service, this high-elevation site attracts hikers and anglers drawn to Missouri Lakes, Fancy Lake, and Lonesome Lake routes. The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and primitive setups with vault toilets and fire rings.

Fulford Cave Campground

null

Fulford Cave Campground sits at 9,432 feet in White River National Forest, offering 7 sites along East Brush Creek near an active beaver pond. The small campground costs $8 per night and is a trailhead for Fulford Cave and routes into the Holy Cross Wilderness. Sites are clustered together but spaced well enough for privacy, with aspens, spruce, and fir providing dappled shade and views toward Yeoman Park.

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.4

(78)

Little Mattie Campground

Aspen Sopris Ranger District, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623

Little Mattie Campground sits at high elevation in White River National Forest, minutes from Ruedi Reservoir near Basalt. Managed by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District, this small seasonal campground draws anglers and boaters who want quick access to the water without the crowds of lower-valley sites. Vault toilets are exceptionally well-maintained, and camp hosts keep the grounds tidy throughout the summer season.

$29.00 - $29.00 / night

810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA

May Queen sits on the shore of Turquoise Lake at 9,900 feet, operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation as a seasonal campground serving Leadville's high-country visitors. The small layout offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, drawing campers who fish, paddle, hike nearby trails, and swim when the lake warms in summer. Reviewers praise the scenic lakefront setting and well-maintained facilities, though sites are close together and there's no running water.

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Less Visited

4.2

(43)

Ruedi Marina Campground

Sopris Ranger District, Carbondale, CO, 81623, USA

Ruedi Marina Campground sits at 7,800 feet on the shore of Ruedi Reservoir in White River National Forest, operated by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District near Basalt. This high-elevation alpine site offers direct access to trophy trout fishing, boating, and mountain biking trails, with friendly hosts and striking reservoir views. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs, though hookups are limited and spacing is tight.

$29.00 - $29.00 / night

SOPRIS RANGER DISTRICT, CARBONDALE, CO, 81623, USA

Mollie B_White River sits at 7,800 feet on the shore of Ruedi Reservoir in White River National Forest, operated by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District near Basalt. This small alpine campground offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets, potable water, and direct reservoir access for boating, fishing, and brisk-water swimming. Campers enjoy warm summer days in the 70s and 80s, clean facilities when maintained, and helpful hosts, though reviewers note occasional water shortages and crowding during peak season.

$32.00 - $32.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.3

(164)

Little Maud Campground

Sporis Ranger District

Little Maud Campground sits in the White River National Forest near Carbondale, operated by the Aspen Sopris Ranger District. This high-elevation alpine campground offers tent and RV sites with access to Ruedi Reservoir, where visitors hike, fish, bike, and watch wildlife. The small campground provides flush and vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables.

$32.00 - $32.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.5

(73)

Sylvan Lake State Park

PO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States

Sylvan Lake State Park sits at 8,500 feet in White River National Forest, offering 44 campsites plus 9 cabins and 3 yurts. The park charges $10–28 per night and accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs up to 120 feet depending on site. Visitors consistently praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and lack of cell service. A feature most appreciate for the chance to disconnect.

$10.00 - $28.00 / night

Less Visited

4.5

(36)

Yeoman Park Campground

Forest Road 415, Yeoman Park, Eagle, CO

Yeoman Park sits at 9,000 feet in White River National Forest, where Brush Creek winds through wetland meadows backed by spruce forest and Craig Peak's 11,902-foot summit. The 24 sites ($8/night) accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet, with six sites handling longer rigs. No water on-site, no cell service, and genuinely clean vault toilets.

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Tabor is a small, high-elevation alpine campground at 9,900 feet near Leadville, offering tent, RV, and primitive sites with access to Turquoise Lake. The campground features vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, and operates seasonally during summer months when weather is most reliable. Reviewers consistently praise the clean facilities and scenic setting, though some note issues with host interactions during quiet hours enforcement.

$25.00 - $29.00 / night

Campgrounds you may also like

Less Visited

3.9

(14)

East Elk Creek Group Campsite

23935 Hwy 50, Gunnison, CO, 81230, USA

East Elk Creek Group Campsite sits in the high-elevation alpine country of Curecanti National Recreation Area, near Gunnison. Operated by the National Park Service, this small group-only site offers privacy and direct access to Blue Mesa Reservoir for boating and fishing. Fall brings kokanee salmon runs and brilliant aspen color, making it a prime spot for wildlife viewing and fishing along the shore.

1 campsites

Reservable

106.982 km

$120.00 - $120.00 / night

3.6

(11)

Crag Crest

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Crag Crest is a very small, high-elevation campground at 10,223 feet in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest. Managed by the Forest Service, it offers first-come, first-served tent and RV sites in a secluded alpine setting near a creek. Visitors come for wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and quiet mornings above the treeline.

Campgrounds

White River National Forest

Elk Wallow Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Elk Wallow Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p><strong>This campground is most suited for guests looking for a quiet, relatively primitive setting. </strong></p><ul><li>No hook ups available. Camping units for autos, pickup campers, tents, and small trailers.</li><li>One vault type toilet.</li><li>Camping units have tables, fire rings, and parking spurs.</li><li>Campground roads are not paved.</li><li>Fishing in North Fork Mormon Creek</li></ul><div><p><a class="usa-button" href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/FSEPRD1095189.pdf" style="margin: 0; margin-top:30px">View Dates and Fees</a></p></div>