Elks Flat Campground
4.4540 reviews3080 INDUSTRIAL WAY, MOUNTAIN HOME, ID, 83647, USA
Elks Flat Campground
$100.00 - $100.00 / 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$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites are available for $100 per night during peak season (May 15 to September 30). Fee does not include taxes, discounts, or additional charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the South Fork Boise River, Elks Flat Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of riverside relaxation and mountain adventure. This meticulously maintained haven serves as your gateway to endless recreation, where mornings might find you casting a line into crystal-clear waters, afternoons splashing in natural swimming holes, and evenings planning tomorrow's rafting expedition. Whether you're drawn to scenic hiking trails, prefer exploring on horseback, or seek the thrill of off-road adventures, Elks Flat positions you at the heart of Idaho's outdoor playground.
Elks Flat Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, primarily focusing on group and tent camping. Group campsites can accommodate up to 100 people, and individual campsites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Elks Flat unfolds like a camper's dream, with over 83% of days greeting you with brilliant blue skies and sunshine. The rare sprinkle of rain (just a 5.7% chance) means your outdoor plans stay intact, while comfortable temperatures create the perfect camping climate—cool mornings at 48°F ideal for coffee by the campfire, warming to pleasant 73°F afternoons perfect for river activities. Gentle mountain breezes keep the air fresh, while the consistently dry conditions ensure your gear stays dry and your spirits high throughout your stay.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 4,400 feet above sea level, Elks Flat strikes the perfect balance for summer camping comfort. This sweet-spot elevation means you'll enjoy warm, sunny days without the intense heat of lower elevations, while cool mountain nights provide restful sleep under star-filled skies. The altitude is gentle enough to avoid altitude sickness concerns, yet high enough to escape the valley's summer swelter.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening in a sun-dappled meadow where native grasses sway in the mountain breeze, framed by a living gallery of towering cottonwoods and shimmering aspens. The campground's natural amphitheater is defined by majestic Douglas firs and stately ponderosa pines, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the air. Just steps away, the South Fork Boise River sparkles and dances over smooth river rocks, its melodic soundtrack accompanying your entire stay while offering endless opportunities for waterside relaxation and recreation.
Geological RegionCradled at the base of the dramatic Trinity Mountain Range, Elks Flat Campground occupies a unique geological sweet spot where mountain majesty meets river valley serenity. This verdant meadow oasis, carved by centuries of river flow, creates a natural gathering place where diverse ecosystems converge. The surrounding forest tapestry—from riverside cottonwoods to mountain-dwelling Douglas firs—tells the story of elevation changes and water abundance, while the South Fork Boise River continues its ancient work of sculpting this remarkable landscape that campers are privileged to call home, if only for a while.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in authoritative documents or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground contains two large-group campsites that can host up to 100 people each. Individual sites vary in size, with some reviewers noting ample space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. While some sites are considered spacious and well-shaded, others are closely clustered, leading to reduced privacy. 'A few clusters of spots are really close together with nothing in between' (Nick K).
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade, look for campsites surrounded by trees. Group site 1 is better situated near the river but lacks privacy compared to other sites.
Best CampsitesCampsite #27 is praised for proximity to the hot spring and views of the river.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 people for group sites.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 100 people, making them suitable for large gatherings. Each group site includes covered pavilions, picnic tables, and a fire pit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two group campsites with covered pavilions and several single-family sites distributed along gravel roads. Some clusters are close together.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to September 30 annually, peak season runs during this time.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySingle-family campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival for group sites) will also forfeit the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Elks Flat Campground can enjoy a range of recreational opportunities. The South Fork Boise River provides options for fishing, swimming, and boating. Nearby hiking trails, such as the Green Creek Trail 270 and Cross Cut Trail 172, cater to hikers, horseback riders, dirt bikers, and off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Baumgartner Hot Springs and other attractions are accessible within a short drive.
Hiking
The Green Creek Trail 270, located a mile from the campground, is a 4.5-mile trail suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and dirt bikes. Cross Cut Trail 172 offers additional hiking opportunities along with access to biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicles.Fishing
The South Fork Boise River is a prime location for fishing rainbow trout. Some reviewers have highlighted this as a key attraction.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the South Fork Boise River. However, there are no specific mentions of designated swimming areas or safety measures.Biking
Cross Cut Trail 172 near the campground supports biking, alongside other activities such as horseback riding and off-road vehicles.Boating
Boating is allowed on the South Fork Boise River, though no details about dock facilities or the types of boats permitted are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as osprey and bats have been observed in the area, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are likely possible on the South Fork Boise River, though not specifically described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be obtained locally to prevent ecological damage.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks reported in scrub near trails, wasp nests near pavilions, and limited cell service. High gusts and moderate wind speeds reported in weather data.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services are in Mountain Home, Idaho, about 59 miles south, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but their maintenance can be inconsistent. 'The trash bins were overflowing before our arrival' (Rodney S).
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the South Fork Boise River, offering swimming, rafting, and fishing. Paradise Hot Springs is a short distance away.
Common complaintsUser reviews point to trash bins overflowing, vault toilets occasionally unclean, and some campsites lacking shade. Noise from RVs near certain clusters was noted.
HostCampground host ensures ATV regulations are followed, but reviews mention inconsistent availability.
Campground Map
3080 INDUSTRIAL WAY, MOUNTAIN HOME, ID, 83647, USA
Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, travel east on Highway 20 for 35 miles to the turnoff for Pine/Featherville (Forest Highway 61). Travel north on Highway 61 for 24 miles to the campground.
The campground can be accessed via paved roads up until the site, ensuring smooth travel. The roads and parking spurs within the campground are gravel.Nearby places
Pine (5 miles north), Mountain Home (approximately 59 miles south, 1-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Pine, 5 miles away, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
40 reviews
Elks Flat Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives a mix of positive and negative reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.175 for camping-specific aspects. Visitors frequently highlight the natural beauty, proximity to the river, and the convenience of having fire pits and picnic tables at each site. However, recurring complaints about restroom cleanliness and maintenance issues detract from the overall experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean and well-maintained campsites, proximity to the South Fork Boise River, and the availability of large group sites. 'Nice campground and well maintained' (Nick K).
Based on 40 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include issues with restroom cleanliness, unemptied trash bins, and maintenance delays. 'The bathrooms were disgusting and every trashcan needed emptied' (Tim Woods).
Based on 40 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving early to secure the best spots, bringing bug spray to deal with ticks and wasps, and being prepared for inconsistent cell service. 'Go early to get the best spots!' (Nick...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews (summer) often mention the campground's popularity and the need to arrive early to secure a good site. Maintenance issues appear more pronounced during busy periods.
Based on 40 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It’s my favorite place ♥️' (Alexandra Robertson). 2. 'Bathrooms were relatively clean considering the type of bathrooms they were' (Russell Mott). 3. 'Nice campground and well maintained' (Nick...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site 1 is noted for its location by the river but criticized for being exposed and lacking in shade (April G). Campsite 001 is praised for its proximity to the river and cleanliness (Farren G),...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 40 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned in passing, with one review noting, 'Dogs must be on a leash' (Stephen Campbell). No detailed pet-related experiences are provided.
Based on 40 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025