The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"All gravel very beautiful surroundings."
"Pretty nice campground with the reservoir, adjacent dirt roads, and closeness(yet not too close to the 50)
Stayed their for a night while going across Nevada."
"Nothing special, just fairly quiet, easy access, a good distance from your neighbors.
We were able to walk our dogs and have a quiet time."
"The trail to Hidden forest starts off at Dead Mans Canyon trail head in the Nevada Wildlife Refuge."
$8 - $50 / night
"I chose this campground as a stop over close to Highway 50 on our way to Utah from California.  It was a very nice little campground, very clean, and well-maintained."
"The Ward Mountain Campground is nicely situated less than a mile off of Route 6, just 6 miles from Ely, NV. It is surrounded by dense juniper and pine. We are in campsite 26 in loop B."
$12 - $75 / night
"which is also covered with small rock is adjacent. Pit toilets were clean. At this time, the area lacks culinary water, hence the one-star deduction. RV dumps located in Ely at gas stations."
GuideNice place to sleep for a quick rest, otherwise it’s just a normal campsite.
GuideMostly long term units, but a few convenient sites open for travelers....
Guide86' sunny when we started. Two of the paths barricaded, wire, can't drive to this area. From highway . 6th attempt Found the arch dirt parking area. Fou d a fence with ladder. Hear water running. 40-44'f when found. Single two person hot spring 120'f too hot to use.
TravelerGet here from 3 Bars Road and turn right at the power lines. Follow it down to the springs. Kinda neat. Road was mixed getting here the first part was great but closer to the spring is rough.
I got stuck trying to follow Google - it's very wrong.
After a rain, you'll need 4x4 and high clearance. I spilt and zig-zaged my way through the pot holes while it was dry
TravelerOn the reservoir with beautiful mountain views
3 bars AT&T 5G
GuideWe often stop here on our way to/from Utah. Nothing special, just fairly quiet, easy access, a good distance from your neighbors.
We were able to walk our dogs and have a quiet time.
We were here several different times of the year in a RV.
GuideClean but dusty by the hwy, although convenient location
TravelerPretty nice campground with the reservoir, adjacent dirt roads, and closeness(yet not too close to the 50)
Stayed their for a night while going across Nevada. Nice views, pit toilets, tables, some sites have shade structures, metal fire pits, easy dirt road in.
There are cows and in my experience RVs left their generators running quite late were the cons if you consider those as such, but I really thought it was a good site.
TravelerMy rooftop tent couldn't withstand the wind so I had to relocate but if you have a set up that can handle very very intense wind, i highly reccomend this spot. I took the other entrance (one that has signs leading to the crater) and there was 2 sites directly on the edge of the crater.
Camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest campgrounds?
Amenities vary widely across Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest campgrounds. Silver Sky Lodge RV Park offers full RV hookups on gravel sites with beautiful surroundings. In contrast, Desert National Wildlife Range provides primitive camping with no facilities but stunning scenery. Most developed forest campgrounds like Ward Mountain include picnic tables, fire pits with grills, and pit toilets. Some have food prep counters and designated tent pads. Water availability is limited, with many sites offering no potable water, so come prepared. Shade structures exist at select sites, particularly valuable in Nevada's intense summer heat. Cell service is spotty throughout the forest, and electricity is generally unavailable except at dedicated RV parks adjacent to the forest.
Where are the best camping sites in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers several outstanding camping options. Ward Mountain Campground is a top choice, located just 6 miles from Ely, NV with dense juniper and pine surroundings. It features hiking and biking trails, making it ideal for family adventures. For those seeking more remote experiences, Lunar Crater Camp provides dispersed camping with dramatic views right on the edge of the crater, though be prepared for intense winds. Other notable options include Illipah Reservoir for waterside camping and Bartine Hot Springs for those seeking thermal soaks. The forest's diverse terrain means you can find everything from developed campgrounds with facilities to primitive backcountry sites.
Do I need a permit for camping in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?
Permits are generally not required for camping at established campgrounds in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, but most developed sites do charge fees. Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area is a notable exception, offering free camping with basic amenities. For dispersed camping in areas like Bartine Hot Springs, no permits are typically needed, but you must follow Leave No Trace principles and camp in previously used sites. Some wilderness areas within the forest may require backcountry permits for overnight stays. Always check current regulations at district ranger offices or the forest website, as rules can change seasonally, particularly regarding fire restrictions during dry months.
Keep Exploring
