Elk Fork Campground
WY · Cody / North Fork corridor
US Hwy 14/16/20, 28 miles west of Cody, Cody, WY 82414
Elk Fork is the sort of campground that makes a riding trip feel properly set up from the beginning. West of Cody and tucked into the North Fork corridor, it gives equestrians a practical wilderness gateway with enough infrastructure to keep camp functional and enough scenery to make the whole outing feel special. For riders headed toward the Washakie Wilderness, it is a very appealing start.
Riding guide
Highlights
A Shoshone-side wilderness gateway with corrals, trailer parking, and a classic Cody-to-high-country progression.
Riding
The Elk Fork trail follows Elk Creek toward the Washakie Wilderness, and the setting has that ideal Wyoming mountain texture: timber, water, elevation, and a sense that the ride is carrying you somewhere meaningful rather than merely looping you around a recreation site. It is a strong choice for riders who enjoy purpose-driven wilderness access.
Trailer parking
Horse corrals and trailer parking are available, with corrals provided at the trailhead and a campground layout that supports stock users well.
Horse regulations
Follow Shoshone National Forest regulations, observe the 16-day stay limit, and come prepared for limited services—potable water is not available. Stock users should also stay current on any seasonal road or trail conditions before departure.
Getting here
Arrival is refreshingly horse-aware. Corrals are provided at the trailhead, trailer parking is available, and the campground setup makes it easier to build a clean overnight routine around your ride. That combination is valuable, especially for travelers who want a strong wilderness launch without surrendering all camp comfort and organization.
Planning your visit
No cell service and no potable water mean this rides best with old-fashioned preparation. Bring what you need, download maps in advance, and think through feed, water, and weather before leaving Cody. Done well, Elk Fork gives you the rare pleasure of a trailhead that is both functional and genuinely atmospheric.
Where to stay
Horse camping is clearly part of the design here, which makes Elk Fork feel far more satisfying than a generic campground near a trail. Cody’s hotels and dining also make it easy to combine a polished town stay with a wilderness trailhead night if you want a more layered, comfort-forward trip.
Trails
No trails synced for this park yet.
Campgrounds
No campgrounds listed for this park.
Photos
Stay near this park
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