Elk Group Camp

For those in Washington seeking an exceptional outdoor experience tailored for larger gatherings, Elk Group Camp presents an ideal solution. Tucked away in the beautiful landscapes of our state, this campground provides a dedicated space for groups to connect with nature, enjoy shared adventures, and create lasting memories. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a scout troop outing, or a gathering of friends, Elk Group Camp offers the space and natural beauty you need for a memorable escape.

This article is designed to introduce you to Elk Group Camp, providing local Washingtonians with a comprehensive overview of its location, the services it provides, unique features that make it stand out, and essential contact information. Our aim is to equip you with all the details necessary to plan your next group camping trip, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience in one of Washington's most captivating natural settings.

Elk Group Camp is situated in Washington, with the general address being Washington 98237, USA. More specifically, it's located within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, near the town of Randle. This prime location places it in southwest Washington, between three of our state's most impressive peaks: Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier. This positioning makes it a fantastic base camp for exploring the diverse recreational opportunities these iconic mountains offer.

Accessing Elk Group Camp typically involves traveling on well-maintained state routes. From Interstate 5, you'll generally take Highway 12 east towards Randle. From Randle, you'll head south on Road 25 and then take a left fork onto Road 23, continuing for about 10 miles until you reach the North Fork Campground & Group Camps, where Elk Group Camp is located. While the journey takes you into a more remote, forested setting, the roads are generally suitable for standard vehicles and RVs, making it a manageable drive for groups coming from various parts of Washington. This accessibility ensures that your group can focus on the fun and relaxation rather than a challenging commute.

• Dedicated Group Site: Elk Group Camp is specifically designed for group use, providing ample space for up to 25 persons and accommodating up to 6 cars or 2 RVs, making it perfect for larger parties.
• Basic Site Amenities: The group site includes essential amenities such as picnic tables for shared meals and fire rings for campfires, creating a traditional and enjoyable camping atmosphere (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Restrooms and Water: Campers have access to restrooms and potable water sources within the larger North Fork Campground area, ensuring basic conveniences are available during your stay.
• Reservable Site: Elk Group Camp is a reservation-only site, meaning you can secure your spot in advance through online booking platforms, providing peace of mind for group planning.
• Bear-Proof Storage: Given the forest environment, it's important to store food in bear-proof containers, and the campground's guidelines encourage this practice for visitor safety and wildlife protection.
• Prohibition of Firewood Gathering: To help protect the forest environment, the gathering of firewood within the park is prohibited, so plan to bring your own or purchase it locally.

• Riverside Location: Elk Group Camp sits alongside the picturesque Cispus River and is specifically on the banks of the North Fork of the Cispus River. This provides beautiful natural surroundings and opportunities for water-based activities.
• Old Growth Forest Setting: The group site is nestled within an old-growth stand of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar trees, offering a truly immersive and scenic forest experience. This ancient canopy provides ample shade and a serene atmosphere.
• Direct Trail Access: The campground offers direct access to hiking trails. The relatively flat River Trail #131 (0.6 miles) runs behind the group sites, while the North Fork Trail #122 (1.6 miles) climbs quickly to a bluff above the campground, offering scenic vistas of the Cispus River.
• Proximity to Major Mountains: Its strategic location offers relatively easy access to Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier, making it an excellent base for exploring these famous Washington landmarks. Many recreational activities, from hiking to scenic drives, are within reach.
• Fishing Opportunities: Anglers in your group will appreciate the chance to fish in the Cispus River for species like brook trout, steelhead, and salmon, adding another popular outdoor activity to your trip.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse natural environment means there are opportunities to spot various wildlife, including elk, deer, and even bears, enhancing the wilderness experience.
• Quiet Hours: Defined quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. help ensure a peaceful and restful environment for all campers.

Address: Washington 98237, USA (specifically near Randle, within Gifford Pinchot National Forest)

For campground inquiries and reservations, it's best to use the following information for North Fork Elk Group Camp:

Phone for inquiries: (541) 338-7869 (This number is often listed for inquiries regarding this specific area within the forest.)

Reservations are typically made online through Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.

For Washingtonians seeking an ideal destination for their next group outdoor adventure, Elk Group Camp stands out as a prime choice. Its unique selling proposition is its dedicated group-specific facilities, meaning you don't have to scramble for multiple individual sites to accommodate your larger party. This makes planning significantly easier and ensures your entire group can enjoy a cohesive camping experience together, fostering camaraderie and shared memories that are so crucial for group outings.

Beyond its group-friendly design, Elk Group Camp's location within the magnificent Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a major draw for Washington residents. We are incredibly fortunate to have such pristine wilderness in our backyard, and this campground provides direct access to it. Imagine your group exploring the extensive hiking trails that start right from your campsite, fishing in the clear waters of the Cispus River, or simply relaxing under the ancient canopy of towering fir and cedar trees. The proximity to iconic peaks like Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier offers endless opportunities for day trips and further exploration, making it a versatile hub for diverse outdoor interests.

The emphasis on privacy and the natural setting, even within a group camp context, means that your gathering can truly disconnect from urban distractions and reconnect with nature. While basic amenities like restrooms and water are available, the overall atmosphere encourages self-reliance and a genuine wilderness experience that many Washington outdoor enthusiasts crave. The specific rules regarding bear-proof storage and firewood gathering also reflect a commitment to preserving the natural environment, a value highly regarded by local conservation-minded individuals.

In summary, Elk Group Camp is perfectly suited for Washington locals because it offers a convenient, beautiful, and purpose-built solution for group camping. It allows our communities to easily access and enjoy the incredible natural resources of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fostering outdoor education, shared adventures, and a deeper appreciation for the unparalleled beauty of our state. For your next family reunion, club outing, or friends' getaway, consider Elk Group Camp – it’s a quintessential Washington wilderness experience waiting to be explored.

Elk Group Camp

Washington 98237, USA