Elk Lake Dispersed Camping And Picnic Area Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic Area in Montana offers free, first-come, first-served dispersed camping—no reservations or permits required.


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Summary

There are no established campsites, hookups, or water, but pit toilets are available. Some sites have fire rings and picnic tables. RVs can access the area, though rough roads make it better suited for smaller rigs. Nestled in a forested, lakeside setting within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, it offers peaceful solitude and scenic views—ideal for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The nearby Continental Divide Trail is a highlight. Summer and early fall are the best times to visit for mild weather and clear trails.

       

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaRed Rock Cr ab Lakes nr Lakeview MT Preview Red Rock Cr Ab Lakes Nr Lakeview Mt
19.7cfs
20cfs
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaHENRYS FORK NR LAKE ID Preview Henrys Fork Nr Lake Id
5.2cfs
5cfs
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaMadison River at Kirby Ranch nr Cameron MT Preview Madison River At Kirby Ranch Nr Cameron Mt
727.0cfs
727cfs
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaHENRYS FORK BLW COFFEE POT RAPIDS NR MACKS INN ID Preview Henrys Fork Blw Coffee Pot Rapids Nr Macks Inn Id
372cfs
372cfs
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaMadison River bl Hebgen Lake nr Grayling MT Preview Madison River Bl Hebgen Lake Nr Grayling Mt
665.0cfs
665cfs
Elk Lake Dispersed Camping and Picnic AreaHENRYS FORK NR ISLAND PARK ID Preview Henrys Fork Nr Island Park Id
203.0cfs
203cfs

Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

Related Links

Nearby Snowpack Depths View more

TEPEE CREEK
1.0"
1"
TEPEE CREEK
2.0"
2"
LAKEVIEW RIDGE
0.0"
0"
NOHRSC LAKEVIEW RIDGE
0.0"
0"
WHITE ELEPHANT
0.0"
0"
ISLAND PARK
0.0"
0"
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River Runs