Yes those are all true, but I was more along the lines of something that can be done without the use of elements. What you mentioned utilizes elemental natures to create the cover. Nevertheless, you have the idea.
In the ninjutsu set there are two techniques that are designed to blot your opponent's vision through the use of scattering flowers. Similar to a few genjutsu techniques, only this time you manifest the flowers yourself or make use of the already existing flower petals in order to create a cover. From there you can use the Silent Homicide technique to tactically approach your opponent. This, of course is a basic stealth manuver. Traditionally the Silent Homicide is used with the Hidden Mist justu but when it comes to pure ninjutsu, the two techniques I mentioned are viable substitutes to use in the same way you would the hidden mist.
However the downside to all of these are, the techniques themselves are fickle and weak against virtually anything; wind (blow them away), fire (burn them), Water (washes them away), Lightning (erratic and can capture you if wide enough), and earth (to create a defensive barrier). Primarily wind release techniques as they possess the ability to blow your cover away unless sufficiently strong techniques are being used as cover. Of course, these techniques are basic and low level.
Questions?