Overview North Fork Elk Group sits alongside the Cispus River in the North Fork Campground, shaded by a dense canopy of pine, fir and cedar trees. The facility is typically open from mid-May through late September, and is one one of three group sites within the campground. North Fork is situated between three of Washin…
Overview North Fork Elk Group sits alongside the Cispus River in the North Fork Campground, shaded by a dense canopy of pine, fir and cedar trees. The facility is typically open from mid-May through late September, and is one one of three group sites within the campground. North Fork is situated between three of Washington's most impressive mountains: Mount St. Helens, Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier. The variety of recreational activities and the diverse natural beauty draws many visitors to this area. Recreation North Fork Elk Group makes a great base camp for a variety of activities. Hikers, mountain bikers and OHV riders can access the nearby multi-use Valley Trail. From this trail, OHV riders can enjoy a network of over 50 miles of OHV trails. The North Fork Loop trail is open to foot traffic and can also be accessed in this area. Anglers can fish the Cispus River for brook trout, steelhead and salmon. Facilities This tent-only site has six tent pads and will accommodate up to 30 people. It's secluded with gated access and offers picnic tables, grills and drinking water. There is a host on-site and firewood is available for sale. Natural Features North Fork is part of the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, which is located in the northernmost portion of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Located in southwest Washington state, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest encompasses 1.3 million acres and includes the 110,000-acre Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument established by Congress in 1982. This Ranger District manages four Wilderness Areas including the Goat Rocks Wilderness, Glacier View Wilderness, Tatoosh Wilderness and William O. Douglass Wilderness. Major River drainage includes the Cowlitz River, Clear Fork of the Cowlitz, and the Cispus River. A variety of wildlife may be spotted in this area, including elk, deer and bears. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (360) 686-3008. Nearby A
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How to Get There
From I-5, take Highway 12 east to Randle, and from there go south on Road 25 and continue until you reach a fork in the road. Take the left fork onto Road 23 and travel for about 10 miles to North Fork Campground & Group Camps.
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 North Fork Elk Group Camp
Heading to North Fork Elk Group Camp? 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 North Fork Elk Group Camp?
No central reservation system listed for North Fork Elk Group Camp. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232898) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at North Fork Elk Group Camp?
North Fork Elk Group Camp has 1 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to North Fork Elk Group Camp?
From I-5, take Highway 12 east to Randle, and from there go south on Road 25 and continue until you reach a fork in the road. Take the left fork onto Road 23 and travel for about 10 miles to North Fork Campground & Group Camps.
