Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities. Learn more
Access Site ID

Elk Creek Reservoir

Elk Creek Reservoir

Source: idaho_department_of_fish_and_game Updated 1 year ago

City: Elk River, ID
County: Clearwater County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 46.77229647, -116.17475351
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
**Location & Access:** Elk Creek Reservoir is located in the Clearwater National Forest near Elk River, Idaho, approximately 45 minutes northeast of Moscow via State Road 8 and Forest Roads 382 and 1705. The site features a boat ramp that provides primary access to the reservoir for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. A forested road parallels the west side of the reservoir, offering multiple fishing access points and four additional docks for paddlers seeking alternative launch or rest spots.

**Facilities & Services:** Elk Creek Campground is adjacent to the ramp and offers both day-use and overnight camping options (reservations available through Recreation.gov). The campground provides water access, vault toilets, and parking. The site is primarily oriented toward day-use boating and fishing, though camping is available for those seeking a longer stay. For specific questions about the boat ramp or facilities, contact the Elk River Recreation District at 208-826-3584 or the campground directly at 208-875-1131.

**Recreation Opportunities:** The reservoir provides excellent boating and fishing throughout. The forested terrain and scenic surroundings make this a popular spot for recreational paddling, with the calm reservoir waters providing an accessible paddling environment suitable for various skill levels. Nearby hiking and swimming opportunities add to the area's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Federal Facility Information
208-875-1131 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Elk Creek Campground offers visitors a little bit of everything. From scenic views and vistas, to attractive waterfalls and ancient foliage, the campground provides a great place to stay in the mountains of north central Idaho. Recreational opportunities abound in the area and a variety of services are located nearby.Recreation
Elk Creek and nearby Elk River Reservoir provide visitors...

Overview
Elk Creek Campground offers visitors a little bit of everything. From scenic views and vistas, to attractive waterfalls and ancient foliage, the campground provides a great place to stay in the mountains of north central Idaho. Recreational opportunities abound in the area and a variety of services are located nearby.Recreation
Elk Creek and nearby Elk River Reservoir provide visitors with opportunities for fishing and other water-related recreation. Cutthroat and rainbow trout, chinook salmon and steelhead swim in the clear waters. Fishing or hunting are popular activities in the rugged and primitive landscape.

Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are available on the area's many trails and forest roads. The Elk Creek Falls Trail takes hikers 3.5 miles to the tallest waterfall in the state.Facilities
The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping, most of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservation needed). A total of 6 sites are available for advanced reservation up to four days before arrival date, at which point unreserved sites will also become first-come first-served. Electrical hookups are available at all sites including the six campsites available for advanced reservations. Parking and driving surfaces are gravel throughout the campground. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A more rustic overflow section offers additional campsites.
Natural Features
The campground is situated in a mature pine forest in the Clearwater National Forest, next to Elk Creek, at an elevation of about 3,000 feet. The surrounding area is home to the tallest waterfall in Idaho, as well as the largest cedar tree east of the Cascade Range.

Elk, deer, moose, bear and cougar make the forested country their home.
Nearby Attractions
The town of Elk River is less than a mile from the campground and offers a variety of basic services, including gas, groceries, showers and fishing equipment.

Read More Read Less
Nearby Campgrounds (2 within 10 miles)
ELK CREEK CAMPGROUND (CLEARWATER NF)
On-site Reservable
Partridge Creek Campground
On-site