Elk Creek access is located at Elk Creek Campground along Highway 6 (Milepost 28) in the Tillamook State Forest, offering paved road access and a developed campground with 15 campsites near the Wilson River and Elk Creek confluence.

The trailhead provides access to multiple hiking trails including the Elk Creek Trail (4. 0 miles, moderate difficulty) which follows Elk Creek upstream through scenic canyon terrain.

Winter parking is available on the right before the closed gate, and the site includes a clean outhouse facility.