When camping in elk country, one of the most important factors that can make or break your hunt is your camp location. According to Corey Jacobsen of Elk101, it’s not just about how close you are to the elk but whether your scent is staying out of their path. By understanding thermals and how they affect elk hunting, you can increase your chances of staying undetected. Here's why camp location and scent control are crucial—and how our Origami Tent and Tarp (TNT) can help you out in the backcountry.
Thermals are air currents that shift direction depending on the time of day, and they play a huge role in elk hunting. In the evening, late night, and early morning, thermals move downslope, carrying scents from higher elevations to lower ground. This natural movement can make or break your hunt. If you camp above the elk, your scent will likely be carried directly into their bedding areas, alerting them to your presence long before you’re in the field. As Corey Jacobsen advises, the best practice is to never camp above elk.
The key to success is not proximity to the hunting area but where you place your camp relative to the elk and the thermals. One of Corey’s primary recommendations is to ensure there’s at least one good ridge separating your camp from the elk’s habitat. This natural barrier prevents your scent from reaching the elk, even when thermals are moving downslope.
Camping on the opposite side of a ridge gives you a tactical advantage and helps you maintain optimal scent control, which is crucial in elk hunting.
When setting up camp in challenging terrain, having versatile gear is key. Peax Equipment’s Origami TNT—a multifunctional hunting tent and tarp—offers the flexibility you need to make quick adjustments in the field. Whether you’re setting up a lightweight shelter in a remote area or need fast cover against unexpected weather, the Origami TNT gives you options.
This tarp can be used as a tarp during the day and a 2 person tent at night, making it ideal for adjusting to varying thermals and ensuring you can set up camp wherever the terrain requires. Its easy setup helps you stay mobile, and its compact design means you can quickly relocate if you need to change your camp location based on shifting wind and thermals.
When camping in elk country, it’s not about being as close as possible to your hunting area. It’s about being smart with your location, understanding how thermals work, and controlling your scent. Taking Corey Jacobsen’s advice and using tools like the Origami TNT from Peax Equipment ensures you can camp with confidence, knowing you’ve minimized your impact on the elk’s environment. By setting up your camp strategically, you’ll give yourself the best chance of a successful elk hunt.
