Big Elk Campground
Irwin, Idaho
| Address: | Big Elk Campground, Targhee Trail, Victor, ID 83455, USA |
| GPS: |
43°19'21.0"N 111°6'58.0"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Idaho |
Camp
Big Elk Creek Campground is a very versitile campground with plenty of activities to keep busy. Campgrounds are available, with three group sites that include picnic tables and campfire rings. There is also a site with a covered picnic area available to reserve. Sites are reserved on a first come first serve basis.
Activities include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and more. On the drive into the camp you pass a small lake that is perfect for a more secluded lake experience if you don't want to go out onto Lake Palisade. About five minutes before reaching the campgrounds you will see the boat launch for the small dammed lake outside of the main Palisade Resevoir. From the campgrounds, you can float or kayak down the river to reach the lake. There is plenty of fishing in this small lake, however this lake DOES NOT provide access to the main Palisade Reservoir.
Fees for use (as of 4/28/17)
- $12/Night single sites
- $24/Night double sites
- Group sites are $50/night up to 35 people, $1/person thereafter
- $6/night extra vehicle, $6/Day for Day Use Fee
More Information
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https://www.recreation.gov/Directions
From Irwin, Idaho
- Head southeast toward Old Irwin Rd (161 ft)
- Turn left onto Old Irwin Rd (0.1 mi)
- Turn right onto US-26 E (10.5 mi)
- Turn left onto Big Elk Creek Rd (1.7 mi)
From Idaho Falls, Idaho, travel approximately 56 miles on Highway 26 to Palisades Dam. Once at the dam, continue 6 miles east on Highway 26, then turn left onto Forest Road 262 (Big Elk Creek Road) and travel 2 miles to the campground.
siddalex102
3/18/18 6:31 pmOther Arenas Nearby
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