Let’s talk camp location in sept

[CoHntr82]

Ok here’s the scenario: Colorado sept elk hunt. I’ve been up scouting a few times which was very successful and seeing lots of activity right above treeline. I spent a few nights across the drainage from my plan A spot which has a handful of drainages separating large meadows with some scattered bunches of trees throughout the meadows. I’ve got beds, wallows etc under the meadows.

Do you have luck camping right within the elk? Same area they’re hanging out on? I’ve got a great vantage pt across, but it’s not quick or quiet due to the slope and complete jungle of willows at the bottom of the drainage. 30-45 mins to the other side. Water is not an issue. I’ll be hunting solo and keep a very very small camp footprint.

 

[Hnthrdr]

I’ve camped pretty damn close to some wallows 300 yards or so and it didn’t seem to effect activity, BUT if you put too much scent too much pressure you can push them out of your life forever…

 

[Walkstoomuch]

I’d keep my distance and get up earlier. Perhaps cut a discrete route with some lops to get through the willows quietly

 

[Beendare]

I'm with the guys above, Camp too close and you have to find another spot....

 

[Idahobugler]

Keep your distance, elk will always win with odor even if you have a small footprint.

 

[wytx]

Found some screaming hot wallows after we set camp and had been there a few days.
They get used to campers but your scent over the wallow may move them out.
Keep camp downwind of the area.

 

[Oakman]

Thermals/wind will definitely be one of your biggest challenges. If you can pick your spot in a way that doesn’t compromise your position, you’ve got a solid chance.
Also, think about pressure from other hunters, what are the chances someone else (or a group) might walk into your area from another direction?
That can change the whole game pretty quickly

 

[Poser]

I've experimented with camping in elk's proximity and it has not worked out. Camp outside of their domain, get up earlier and move in -you'll get more than 1 day of hunting out of the area and if they are not in there, its much more likely they will move in at night. Alsop, 3-4 people will have significantly more impact than 1 or 2 hunters so the more people, the further away you need to camp.

 

[bz_711]

I would not camp in the same drainage...would like one big ridge between me and elk to make sure any wind is not an issue.

Good Luck!