Elk Lake Dispersed Camping And Picnic Area
00 review5 Forest Service Road Ennis, MT 59729
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping And Picnic Area
$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
There is no fee for this dispersed camping area.
About this campground
Nestled in pristine wilderness, Elk Lake dispersed camping and picnic area offers an escape into nature's untouched beauty. Here, crystal-clear mountain lakes mirror the sky while streams whisper through ancient forests. Birdwatchers flock to this hidden gem where eagles soar overhead and songbirds fill the morning air with their melodies. Wildlife enthusiasts will discover a living gallery of mountain creatures, from curious deer grazing at dawn to elusive forest dwellers that emerge at twilight.
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic Area is a primitive camping site without many developed facilities, offering a raw and natural camping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this area may be sparse, the land itself tells ancient stories through its untouched forests and pristine waters, offering visitors a chance to connect with the timeless rhythms of the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsThis mountain sanctuary welcomes visitors from mid-May through mid-September, when wildflowers paint the meadows and warm sunshine filters through towering pines. Peak summer brings perfect camping weather, with late June and July offering the sweet spot for outdoor adventures. Expect blissful days reaching the upper 70s and crisp mountain nights dipping into the 40s during weeks 26-29, creating ideal conditions for both daytime exploration and cozy campfire evenings. As autumn approaches and winter's first whispers arrive, the area transforms into a different kind of beauty before closing for the season.
ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers crisp mountain air and spectacular vistas. The elevation creates a natural climate that keeps summer temperatures comfortable while providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of natural wonders unfolds across this mountain paradise, where pristine lakes reflect endless skies and babbling streams carve their ancient paths through verdant forests. Towering peaks frame the horizon while meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers, creating an ever-changing canvas of color and life.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this camping area showcases the raw beauty of Montana's mountain wilderness. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where glacial lakes nestle between weathered peaks and mountain streams have carved valleys through ancient rock formations, creating a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeNo specific data about campsite sizes is mentioned.
Sites PrivacyNo specific data about campsite privacy is mentioned.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNull
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Camping in an area, campsite, or developed campground is limited to 16 accumulated days within any 30-day period.
Groups
Details about group site capacity and regulations are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually mid-May through mid-September, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic Area offers a variety of outdoor activities suited to its pristine wilderness setting. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, picnicking, and boating. Wildlife viewing is a highlight for birders and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Day hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding wilderness, with no specific trail details provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include lake and pond fishing, as well as ice fishing during appropriate seasons.Boating
Motorized boating is permitted on nearby water bodies.Wildlife viewing
"There are abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in the area, which is particularly popular with birders." Bears are mentioned as part of the local wildlife.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is mentioned as a winter activity, suggesting potential for other cold-weather pursuits.Water Sports
Motorized boating opportunities are available, but non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Null
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsBears are frequent in the area. Visitors should follow bear safety practices.
Active alertsRoad conditions can be an issue accessing this campground. Visitors are advised to call in advance for updates.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Madison Ranger District, Address: 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729, Phone: 406-682-4253.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recycling"There is no garbage service at this site. Please pack out what you pack in."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near mountain lakes and streams.
Common complaintsLimited accessibility due to road conditions; no potable water; no garbage service.
HostNull
Campground Map
5 Forest Service Road Ennis, MT 59729
Driving directionsThe dispersed camping area is located approximately 50 miles east of Monida on Red Rock Lake National Wildlife Refuge Road. From Henry's Lake, Idaho take Red Rock Pass for about 23 miles. The route is complicated and requires a travel plan map.
Road conditions can be an issue accessing this campground. Please call (406) 682-4253 for road conditions.Nearby places
Henry's Lake, ID (~23 miles)
Monida, MT (~50 miles)
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping And Picnic Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
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Review Summaries
What Campers Love
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Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025