Ellis Ford Recreation Area provides access to North Fork Black Creek at its northernmost accessible landing, making it an ideal starting point for paddling trips to Knights Landing (2-6 hours) or Indian Ford (8-10 hours to Middleburg).

The area offers parking, hike-to camping zones (Chapman's Camp and Dunn's Camp on a first-come, first-serve basis), and access to the Pioneer Trail for hiking, though swimming is not permitted at this location.