FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Big Elk Campground

Eddyville, Oregon · Lincoln County · Campground

Big Elk Campground is popular for fishing and hiking. It is operated by a local community under special use permit.

🧭 Get Directions
Advertisement
44.54417, -123.72194
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Big Elk Campground

Big Elk Campground is popular for fishing and hiking. It is operated by a local community under special use permit.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Big Elk Campground

Heading to Big Elk Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Big Elk Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Big Elk Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/272044) for the latest entry policy and availability.

Guides & rankings

More on Oregon parks & hiking

View all posts →
Alpine lake reflecting jagged mountain peaks at sunrisePhoto: Joshua Earle
State Rankings

The 10 Longest Hiking Trails in Oregon, Ranked

Oregon's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

Oregon's 10 Most Punishing Trails by Elevation Gain

Steep is hard. These are the ten Oregon trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

The Best Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Oregon

Ten gentle, well-marked Oregon trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Hiker standing on a rocky summit overlooking deep mountain valleysPhoto: Holly Mandarich
State Rankings

The 10 Most Challenging Hikes in Oregon

Oregon's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.

By The OutsideAtlas Team8 min
Going down the Grand Canyon. Seeing our destination from afar. So worth! If you find this picture useful, consider donating! Venmo: @diegonachoPhoto: Diego Lozano
Parks & Travel

The Best National Parks & Recreation Areas in Oregon

Federal parks and recreation areas in Oregon ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Alpine lake reflecting jagged mountain peaks at sunrisePhoto: Joshua Earle
State Rankings

Best Waterfall Hikes in Oregon: 10 Trails to See Falls Up Close

Oregon's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min