Elk Wallow Campground
02 reviewsnull
Elk Wallow Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees are mentioned to be found in the forest-wide campground table. No specific details provided in the source material.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Elk Wallow Campground, where the rhythms of nature replace the noise of modern life. This intimate, back-to-basics retreat welcomes adventurers seeking authentic wilderness experiences with accommodations for tents, small trailers, and pickup campers. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with a table for outdoor dining, a fire ring for evening gatherings, and a dedicated parking spur. While the unpaved roads and single vault toilet reflect the campground's rustic character, they're exactly what makes this hideaway perfect for those craving a genuine connection with the Colorado wilderness.
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.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations that make Elk Wallow a year-round adventure destination. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, with heavy snowfall creating opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, though frigid temperatures demand proper preparation. As spring melts into summer, the campground reveals its gentler side with comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and fishing, punctuated by refreshing afternoon rain showers that keep the forest lush and the creeks flowing.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in a secluded pocket of wilderness, Elk Wallow offers an authentic escape where the only sounds are wind through the pines and the gentle babble of North Fork Mormon Creek. This pristine waterway winds through the campground, offering peaceful spots for contemplation and excellent opportunities to cast a line for native trout. The primitive setting creates an atmosphere of profound tranquility, where morning mist rises from the creek and evening brings a spectacular display of stars unobscured by light pollution.
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.
Campsite details
Sites 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.
Sites 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.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group camping is not specifically supported at Elk Wallow Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
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
Fishing is available in North Fork Mormon Creek, which is adjacent to the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews highlight the presence of open-range cattle that may visit campsites, potentially causing disturbances during the night.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities information is not provided in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresFishing is available in North Fork Mormon Creek.
Common complaintsMinimal complaints noted, but open-range cattle have been mentioned to frequent campsites overnight.
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Basalt, travel East on Frying Pan River Road for 24 miles, past Ruedi Reservoir. Take a left on Forest Service Road 501 and travel for 4 miles until you reach Elk Wallow Campground.
Campground roads are not paved, and driving directions involve traveling on Frying Pan River Road and Forest Service Road 501. Seasonal road conditions should be considered.Nearby places
Basalt (approximately 28 miles, travel time not specified)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Elk Wallow Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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 2 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 2 reviewsShow more
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 2 reviewsPro 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 2 reviewsCamper 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 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or detailed breakdowns of the best and worst sites are provided in the reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned in the source materials or reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention experiences with pets or pet policies.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025