How much does camping cost at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Camping fees at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) range from $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) first-come first-served or reservation?

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) before I book?

Yes! Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) is open May 22 to September 20. 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 Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Fire policies at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf): Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) have?

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

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

What amenities are available at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Popular activities at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

2.33

18 reviews

SAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID 83278, USA

Featured in:Group Camping Idaho

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,522 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Opening and closing ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,522 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Opening and closing ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$75.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

SAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID 83278, USA

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

SAWTOOTH, STANLEY, ID 83278, USA

Nearby places

Stanley (~8 miles, ~15 minutes by car).

Weather at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

Current alerts(4)

Click here for more info about the Sawtooth National Forest
FIRST COME FIRST SERVE sites must be booked in person. DO NOT call to determine availability, as they are only available on-site (if group site has not been reserved).
Idaho Off-road Vehicle Safety Message
Opening and closing dates are weather permitting, please call 928-537-8888 for more information.

Best Time to Camp at Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable weather for camp-life and trail days — daytime highs typically reach the mid-70s to around 78°F with crisp nights in the low 40s. Wildflower displays and accessible high-country trails make June–August ideal for hiking, mountain biking, boating and trout fishing when streams and alpine lakes are fishable. Expect moderate weekend crowds (especially July) because of the campground's proximity to Stanley and the Sawtooth peaks; midweek Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open into mid-September; early fall access good though burn limits fall foliage impact.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 20. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Opening and closing dates are weather permitting, please call 928-537-8888 for more information.

About Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)

Elk Creek Campground sits in Sawtooth National Forest near Stanley, Idaho, at mid-elevation in a recovering burn area with limited shade. Operated by Recreation Resource Management of America, this very small campground offers group camping alongside Elk Creek, where families wade and fish during summer months. Reviewers praise clean vault toilets and creek access but note sparse tree cover and occasional construction noise.

Elk Creek Campground is primarily designed for group camping. If the group site is not reserved, individual sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable weather for camp-life and trail days — daytime highs typically reach the mid-70s to around 78°F with crisp nights in the low 40s. Wildflower displays and accessible high-country trails make June–August ideal for hiking, mountain biking, boating and trout fishing when streams and alpine lakes are fishable. Expect moderate weekend crowds (especially July) because of the campground's proximity to Stanley and the Sawtooth peaks; midweek Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation6522 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a recent burn zone where few trees remain for shade. Elk Creek runs near the sites, providing a spot for wading. The surrounding landscape includes lodgepole pine forest and meadows, with views of the Sawtooth peaks in the distance. Elevation at 6,522 feet means cooler temperatures and alpine conditions. Wildflowers bloom in the meadows during summer months.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned as being available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 10 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limits are not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.

Groups

The campground features one group site composed of three smaller sites. The group site accommodates multiple tents and is available for reservation. If not reserved, these are treated as individual sites on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov; contact center fees apply.

AccessibilityLimited accessibility due to the need to walk a few yards from the parking area to campsites. No specific features for disabilities mentioned.

Site SizeThe group site is large enough to accommodate multiple tents. One reviewer reported having sufficient space for five tents.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the proximity of individual sites to one another. Additionally, the campground sits in a burn area with few trees, reducing natural screening.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider renting the group site to limit neighbor disturbance; bring cones to deter external traffic and shade structures to counter sun exposure.

Best CampsitesThe single group site can fit at least five tents. One reviewer recommended reserving the entire site to prevent day-use visitors from wandering through your camp and using the facilities.

Need help booking Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Vault toilets area provided. The road to the site and the parking spur within are paved.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Elk Meadow nearby is highlighted as a great spot for bird and wildlife watching.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof dumpster available onsite, per user reviews indicating wildlife safety measures.

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

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From Booking Sources

2.3

18 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Elk Creek Campground (Sawtooth Nf) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Elk Creek Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 2.4. Common praises include the spacious group site and cleanliness of the restroom facilities. However, criticisms focus on the lack of shade due to a recent burn, heavy road noise, and non-potable water. Several users suggested alternative nearby campgrounds as being more scenic and better shaded.

Review Summaries

Based on 18 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects highlighted by users include clean vault toilets, ample space for group camping, and the picturesque Elk Creek nearby. 'The restroom was pristine,' noted one reviewer. Another...

Based on 18 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback centers on the lack of shade and vegetation due to fire damage, dusty conditions caused by nearby construction, and heavy road noise. One user remarked, 'No shade due to trees being...

Based on 18 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 1 in the group area is frequently reviewed. While some users praised its spaciousness and proximity to Elk Creek, others criticized the lack of shade and the condition of the water pump.

Based on 18 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own shade structures and potable water. Consider reserving the entire group site to reduce disturbances from day-use visitors. One user suggested bringing cones to discourage non-campers...

Based on 18 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer peak season, with temperatures averaging highs of 78°F and lows of 40°F. Weekends see increased road noise due to higher traffic. Off-season use is...

Based on 18 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This site is located in an area which has been recently burned, so there are very few living trees left in the area.' 2. 'The rangers kept the bathroom meticulously clean and there is a...

Based on 18 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features were not explicitly reviewed by users, but the need to walk a short distance from the parking area to campsites may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Based on 18 reviews