West Fork Elk Creek (FR 40863) in ID -- Camping Rules & Access
West Fork Elk Creek (FR 40863) in ID
Road corridorCaribou-Targhee NF, Palisades Ranger District
23 mi from Star Valley Ranch
Maps 6,000 ft
Dispersed camping generally allowed
U.S. Forest Service default; a local order can restrict it.
Caribou-Targhee National Forest ↗
Stay limit: 14 days · within 30 days · then move 5 mi
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Road Access
Difficult
- All 5.1 miles of this road are maintained for high-clearance vehicles, dirt the whole way.
- Near Big Elk Mountain.
- Estimated climb: 2,100 ft over 5.1 miles through 9 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 12% and pitches to 17%.
- Terrain estimates show roadside drops of up to ~150 ft on the downhill side.
- Dead-end road; turnaround space is not mapped.
Setting
Secluded
- Secluded here, with the nearest through road 2.7 miles off.
- Big Elk Mountain stands 3,467 ft above the map pin, 2.6 miles southwest.
- West Fork Elk Creek runs 0.5 mi off.
Rules
- dispersed camping is permitted in many areas unless restricted by specific regulations or authorized uses. Campsites must be at least 100 feet from streams or water sources to protect water quality, with a 14-day stay limit in one spot within a 28-day period. After 14 days, campers must relocate at least 5 road miles to another dispersed area.
- Camping rules
Climate averages
October normals 34–57°F, 2.3″ precipitation. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.