What are the hours and season for Big Elk?

Big Elk is open May through October. Check-in: 2:00 PM. Check-out: 12:00 PM.

How do I book a campsite at Big Elk?

Big Elk is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "Big Elk"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/big-elk to be notified the moment a site opens up.

Big Elk

Caribou-Targhee National Forest — lakeside, fishing, hiking

Irwin, ID4.8 (15)

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Big Elk Campground is situated along Big Elk Creek on a quiet arm of the beautiful Palisades Reservoir, just 55 miles east of Idaho Falls, Idaho. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing and exploring the scenic Big Elk Creek Trail.For facility specific information, please call (541) 351-1182.This campground offers three group sites with picnic tables, campfire rings and grills. Site A-1 also has a picnic shelter and serving tables, and can accommodate up to 160 people.

Things to do nearby

Caribou-Targhee National ForestIdaho FallsBig Elk Creek Trail

Best For

AnglersHikersBoatersWildlife watchersFamilies

Site Types

TentRV

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Vault Toilets

Drinking Water

Electric Hookups

Camp Host

Fishing

Boat Launch

Firewood for Sale

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

May through October

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Big Elk cost per night?+

Big Elk costs $60 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.

What season is Big Elk open?+

Big Elk is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does Big Elk have hookups?+

No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.

What is the maximum RV length at Big Elk?+

Big Elk can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long.

How do I make reservations at Big Elk?+

Big Elk is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is Big Elk from the nearest town?+

Big Elk is located in Irwin, ID. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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