How much does camping cost at Elk Fork Campground?

Camping fees at Elk Fork Campground range from $10-$15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

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

Elk Fork Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All 13 sites are walk-up only; no reservation system available.

What is the best time to visit Elk Fork Campground?

Elk Fork Campground is open May 8 through September 30.. 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 Fork Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Elk Fork Campground?

Fire policies at Elk Fork Campground: No explicit fire policies mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Elk Fork Campground have?

Elk Fork Campground has 13 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Elk Fork Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Elk Fork 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 Fork Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Elk Fork Campground?

Popular activities at Elk Fork Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Elk Fork Campground

3.88

32 reviews

Elk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA

Top 13% in WYSpring

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Wyoming

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$10 - $15/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Services provided Ma...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$10 - $15/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Services provided Ma...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Elk Fork Campground

$10.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$15/night for a single unit

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Elk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA

Elk Fork Campground

Elk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA

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.

Weather at Elk Fork Campground

Best Time to Camp at Elk Fork Campground

Summer brings the most reliable conditions and the only window when the campground is open. Daytime highs reach 65-75°F, with mornings dropping into the 40s. The Shoshone River runs at comfortable flows for trout fishing from June through August. Wildlife activity peaks in summer when elk, mule deer, moose, and occasional bears move through the area. Expect moderate crowds on summer weekends because of the short season and proximity to Yellowstone. Winter closes the road and buries the campground in heavy snow.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall favored for fewer crowds and abundant wildlife; campground open through Sep 30.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 8 through September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Services provided May 8 through September 30. Open 24 hours per day.

About Elk Fork Campground

Elk Fork Campground sits along the Shoshone River 25 miles from Yellowstone's East Entrance, offering 13 rustic sites at 6,000 feet elevation. The campground costs $10-15 per night and operates May 8 through September 30. Sites accommodate RVs up to 22 feet, though the straight (non-looped) layout makes maneuvering larger rigs tricky. Corrals at the nearby Elk Fork Trailhead make this a popular base for horseback trips into the Washakie Wilderness.

Elk Fork Campground offers 13 combined tent and RV sites, catering to equestrian enthusiasts with horse corrals and a rustic, secluded atmosphere.

Historical Significance

Elk Fork sits within Shoshone National Forest, established in 1891 as the first national forest in the United States. The region has served as indigenous hunting grounds for centuries, though no specific tribal affiliations or sites are documented in available records for this immediate area.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions and the only window when the campground is open. Daytime highs reach 65-75°F, with mornings dropping into the 40s. The Shoshone River runs at comfortable flows for trout fishing from June through August. Wildlife activity peaks in summer when elk, mule deer, moose, and occasional bears move through the area. Expect moderate crowds on summer weekends because of the short season and proximity to Yellowstone. Winter closes the road and buries the campground in heavy snow.

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 Shoshone River carves through a transitional zone where narrow-leaf cottonwoods and weathered junipers meet. West-side sites border the creek. East-side sites get heavy shade from the mixed forest. The Elk Fork Trail leads from the campground into the Washakie Wilderness, where glacial valleys and ancient rock formations open up the deeper you go. The landscape shifts from intimate riverside groves to big mountain vistas as the trail climbs.

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.

Scenic ViewsWest-side sites border the creek, and East-side sites feature shaded areas. Views include the Shoshone River and lush greenery.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground follows a straight layout without loops, which creates decent spacing between neighbors but limits turnaround room for larger RVs. Overgrown greenery narrows the spurs in places. Maximum spur length is 22 feet.

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.

AccessibilityThis site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.

Site SizeMaximum spur size is 22 feet.

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 SitesRecommended for tents and small trailers due to size constraints and limitations for large RVs or trailers.

Best CampsitesWest-side sites along the creek get consistent praise from campers for scenic views and the sound of flowing water. Reviews don't call out specific site numbers, but the creek-side spots are the ones to book if you want the full riverside experience.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGrizzly bear country; campers must practice safe food storage techniques.

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.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Only vault toilets are provided for camper use.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof containers available at each site, and their use is mandatory.

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyNo explicit fire policies mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are located in Cody, Wyoming, approximately 27 miles away. Includes hospitals and police services.

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof containers are provided for food storage and trash disposal. Campers must adhere to food storage regulations due to grizzly bear activity.

Water FeaturesLocated along the Shoshone River. West-side campsites border the creek.

Camp HostPark host is available and noted for providing helpful advice on wildlife safety and area exploration.

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

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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

3.9

32 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Elk Fork Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 32 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 32 reviews

Common 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 32 reviews

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 32 reviews

Pro 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 32 reviews

Seasonal 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 32 reviews

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 32 reviews

Accessibility Features

This campground is explicitly noted as not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.

Based on 32 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Hikers and equestrians eyeing the 18-mile Elk Fork Trail into the Washakie Wilderness get the most from this spot. Creek-side west sites are the pick. Bring all your water and arrive early on summer weekends since there's no reserving ahead.

Skip if

Anything over 22 feet will struggle badly on the straight, overgrown layout with no turnaround room. No potable water, no hookups, no showers, and 27 miles of mountain road to the nearest hospital makes this a poor fit for campers who need any modern infrastructure.

Nearby Campgrounds

203A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY, USA

Wapiti Campground sits in Shoshone National Forest between Cody and Yellowstone's East Entrance, offering mid-elevation forest sites with electric hookups along the North Fork Shoshone River. Managed through Recreation.gov, the campground accommodates tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors hike, fish, bike, and watch wildlife in the surrounding Absaroka Range, with reviewers praising clean facilities, scenic views, and private sites.

Elk Fork Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Elk Fork Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Elk Fork Campground

Best Time to Camp at Elk Fork Campground

Planning Tips

About Elk Fork Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Elk Fork Campground

Best Time to Camp at Elk Fork Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews