Elk Creek Pavilion (Clearwater NF)

USDA Forest Service campground, 1 site

Overview

Elk Creek Pavilion offers visitors a little bit of everything. From scenic views and vistas, to attractive waterfalls and foliage, the pavilion provides a great place to host group events in the mountains of north central Idaho. Recreational opportunities abound in the area and a variety of services are located nearby. For groups greater than 50 people please call the Palouse Ranger District at (208) 875-1131 to make additional parking arrangements. Additional parking arrangements may not be able to be accommodated with less then 14 days notice.

Recreation

Elk Creek and nearby Elk River Reservoir provide visitors with opportunities for fishing and other water-related recreation. Cutthroat and rainbow trout, chinook salmon and steelhead swim in the clear waters. Fishing or hunting are popular activities in the rugged and primitive landscape.

Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are available on the area's many trails and forest roads. The Elk Creek Falls Trail takes hikers 3.5 miles to the tallest waterfall in the state.

Facilities

The pavilion measures 42 feet wide by 80 feet wide and has a large stone fireplace situated towards the rear of the structure. The pavilion offers an ideal location to host group events such as weddings and reunions. Additional parking arrangements are required for groups greater than 50 people. Arrangements must be made by contacting the Palouse Ranger District office at (208) 875-1131.

The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping, most of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Electrical hookups are available at six reservation sites and 17 first-come, first-served sites.

Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A more rustic overflow section offers additional campsites.

Natural Features

The pavilion is situated alongside Elk Creek Campground in a mature pine forest in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, next to Elk Creek, at an elevation of about 3,000 feet. The surrounding area is home to the tallest waterfall in Idaho, as well as the largest cedar tree east of the Cascade Range.

Elk, deer, moose, bear and cougar make the steep forested country their home.

Nearby Attractions

The town of Elk River is less than a mile from the campground and offers a variety of basic services, including gas, groceries, showers and fishing equipment.