Not sure how much help you will get here, but you are on the right track. I would look at a map and find some areas that have the least amount of road access, and then go scout it. You might be able to dig up some intel in the search feature here as well from prior posts. As far as what to look for, old rubs, and wallows would be a good indicator that in Aug/Sept elk should be in that area. Once you find some of those might throw out some trail cameras.