RE: Elk Camp Setup
I wouldn't use a fire on a spike camp, but would in a main camp. I would just put the main camp in another drainage that you plan to hunt. Spike camp would consist of either MRE's, or propane heated freeze-dried food, depending on how long you will be out in a spike camp, and if you could weigh the differences. As far as the smoke spooking game, I believe it does. But for different reasons than they associate the smell with humans. I think it is because fire is a natural occurrance, and the elk naturally run from fire to escape death.