Best Camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, CA (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White River

    3. White River

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    7 Saves
    Lund, Nevada
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground

    5. Ward Mountain Campground

    6 Reviews
    16 Photos
    63 Saves
    Ruth, Nevada

    Updates coming soon. For information please call ( Ward Mountain Recreation Area and Campground sits in the shadow of its namesake, just 10 miles southwest from the city of Ely, in eastern Nevada. It sits at an elevation of 7,400 feet. Many trails are available for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. There are 33 campsites, including nine back-in and three pull-thru RV sites. These sites also have picnic tables, campfire rings, and BBQ pedestals. At this campground, recreation activities include mountain/roading biking, backpack/day hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Recreation Ward Mountain and the surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Many of the trails offer scenic views of the surrounding high desert terrain. Facilities This campground offers single-family campsites and three large group sites that can accommodate up to 100 or more people. Multiple access points for trails are found throughout the campground with the main trailhead located at the eastern most side. All campsites are equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings and grills. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided, but there is no electricity. A campground host is on-site. Natural Features Ward Mountain is the highest point in the Egan Range, topping out near 10,800 feet. The campground is well below the summit, but sits high above the desert floor below. A forest of pinyon pine and juniper trees covers the area, offering partial shade and privacy between campsites. Nearby Attractions Comins Lake is about 13 miles from the campground offering boating and fishing for trout and bass. Cave Lake State Park is less than 20 miles away, with opportunities for boating and fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is 26 miles away, with interesting historic stone ovens and an interpretive trail. The Northern Nevada Railway in Ely has a museum and offers train rides. Stop by the Chamber of Commerce for more information on local events and sites. ADA Access: N

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $8 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)

    6. Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    25 Saves
    Ruth, Nevada

    Overview

    Ward Mountain Recreation Area and Campground sits in the shadow of its namesake, just 10 miles southwest from the city of Ely, in eastern Nevada. It sits at an elevation of 7,400 feet. Many trails are available for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

    Recreation

    Ward Mountain and the surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Many of the trails offer scenic views of the surrounding high desert terrain.

    Natural Features

    Ward Mountain is the highest point in the Egan Range, topping out near 10,800 feet. The campground is well below the summit, but sits high above the desert floor below. A forest of pinyon pine and juniper trees covers the area, offering partial shade and privacy between campsites.

    Nearby Attractions

    Comins Lake is about 13 miles from the campground offering boating and fishing for trout and bass. Cave Lake State Park is less than 20 miles away, with opportunities for boating and fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is 26 miles away, with interesting historic stone ovens and an interpretive trail. The Northern Nevada Railway in Ely has a museum and offers train rides. Stop by the Chamber of Commerce for more information on local events and sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $12 - $75 / night

    • No image available
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Barley Creek
        Camper-submitted photo from Barley Creek
        Camper-submitted photo from Barley Creek
        • No image available

          10. Tonkin Spring

          Be the first to review!
          8 Saves
          Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

          Tonkin Spring is located northwest of the Roberts Mountains, at the mouth or Red Canyon, in Eureka County, Nevada. This recreation site is isolated and undeveloped with no facilities, so please plan your outing accordingly.

          • Tents
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        Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

        Pet-friendly camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

        Recent Reviews in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

        22 Reviews of 12 Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Campgrounds


        • Kim S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
          Oct. 27, 2024

          Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area

          Great free campground

          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. 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.

        • Cas M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Lunar Crater Camp
          Sep. 3, 2024

          Lunar Crater Camp

          Windy but gorgeous

          My 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.

        • KThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
          Jul. 22, 2024

          Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)

          Good spot to get out of the heat.

          This is my second stay this year. With Las Vegas temps reaching 115, This is a beautiful respite with highs in the mid 80s. Well kept camp sites are also a welcome bonus. Bring your own water. Super clean restrooms too.

        • AThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          May. 29, 2023

          Ward Mountain Campground

          Cute and tucked away

          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 host was very friendly as well. It was a nice area to walk around in. The only issue was the mosquitoes at dawn and dusk, but we took care of that by hanging out in our clamshell tent.

        • JThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          Aug. 13, 2022

          Ward Mountain Campground

          Beautiful spot

          Juniper and pine. Loop B is far enough from the road that we didn’t hear the highway. Quiet, lots of space. Nice fire pits, grills, tables. No water. Great trails for hiking and biking.

        • James J.
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
          Jun. 20, 2022

          Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)

          RV friendly NPS

          Very nice NPS campground. My 30' TT and 20' truck found ample back-in FF spaces. Mostly flat. Table, grill and prep counter in good shape. Space is composed of small rock. A separate spot for a tent or (?) 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. Some sites can be reserved. About an hour's drive to Great Basin N.P.. 

          T-Mobile's signal was good.

        • R
          Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
          Jun. 9, 2022

          Silver Sky Lodge RV Park

          Friendly service

          We were greeted at our car as we drove in. Help guide me in to a pull through site. Collected the fees and brought us the receipt. Site is clean and level. Although it is gravel it is not too deep for me to use my 4 wheel walker or cane. A wheelchair may be tough.

        • Andrew J.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sky Lodge RV Park
          Sep. 20, 2021

          Silver Sky Lodge RV Park

          Good overnight

          Clean neat and friendly, pull throughs are easy, low key atmosphere. Water(well) good taste,some fruit trees (apple) at the sites. Pickable in season.

        • Daniel V.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
          Aug. 15, 2021

          Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area

          Nice scenery in Nevada

          Great free campground.  There's a dirt road going around the reservoir and one can go for a long walk.  (Driving a subaru impreza hatchback with 5.1 inches ground clearance.)

        • M
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          Jul. 29, 2021

          Ward Mountain Campground

          Open spaces, clean, trees, fire ring

          I did not have a reservation and found Ward Mountain Campground on Google maps. The road were well maintained. There were spots that accommodate group camping. No water , electric, or dumping station. There were bath rooms and a dumpster for getting rid of trash. The driveway for site parking was level. There were trees, camp fire ring, picnic table, and flat area for a tent. The view was beautiful. It was peaceful. My dog, Blueberry, and I spent one night. Neighbors were courteous.

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          Jul. 15, 2021

          Ward Mountain Campground

          High mountain pass and small pine trees

          Family fun. Horse trails, bike trails, bike trails… Nice spot for a few days and close to a small town (Ely).

        • Michael M.
          Camper-submitted photo from Barley Creek
          Dec. 8, 2020

          Barley Creek

          Long dirt roads, Into the woods and across the creek

          Remote, lightly used, primitive sites. Signage is limited, have a good map. Need high clearance vehicle, but not true 4WD, branches will likely scratch the car a bit. Look for the rock pile fire pits as you get nearer the trail head. Only saw one other person, a hunter at 7AM heading to the trails. There are no pit toilets.

        • Judy T.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Campground
          Nov. 26, 2020

          Illipah Campground

          Free site off Highway 50

          To get to Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area and Campground, you need to drive a graded gravel road. We saw people in fifth wheels and trailers so they must have been okay with the washboards. The sites are spaced far enough apart for privacy as there are no trees for shade. There are shaded picnic tables using those half circle metal shade screens.

          There were several single vault toilets which were clean. We had a site which overlooked the reservoir where we saw a small roundup of cattle. It is a beautiful place in a stark barren sort of way. The winds were strong when we stayed there in mid-October 2020. It was also cold getting to 22° in the early morning. But, it was brightly sunny.

          This is a free site so there were quite a few people there including some who came in late at night. It is hard to find places to camp in the dark as they are spread out. After they settled in , it was quiet and the sky was filled with stars.

          We liked staying here as we wanted to explore Hamilton ghost town 11 miles up a mostly decent gravel road.

        • James L.
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          Oct. 18, 2020

          Ward Mountain Campground

          A Pleasant Interlude

          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. It has a bit of a view and you have to focus to hear any road sounds. It’s rather quiet here and sparsely populated in mid-October. The site tables and fire pit appears to be new. Bring your own water and other support needs. Some pull through and group sites. RV, trailers and tents accommodated. Cost is $8 regular/$4 for senior pass. The wind in the trees makes good music. The 5 star rating reflects the privacy afforded by the campground’s layout. Attached is a GPS snap as there are a few different numbers out there.

        • Tom and Marianne  H.
          Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mountain Campground
          Jun. 10, 2020

          Ward Mountain Campground

          Nice quiet campground

          Stayed for one night in early June. Campground is in full operations mode. Quiet and scenic sites are available. Well-placed sites (30) not too close together. Most sites are currently reservable but 10 are first come first serve when I stayed there. $8 per night; $4 with Senior Pass.

        • KThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
          May. 19, 2020

          Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area

          Windy but nice views

          Free campsites along the reservoir, windy up on the high spots. Fire pits, picnic tables (some with shade) and wind fences. Great views, better for campervan or RV camping just because of the high wind and no pads, but you could do it. No cell coverage on sprint or Verizon while here.

        • Jacob S.
          Camper-submitted photo from White River
          Mar. 14, 2020

          White River

          This is for getting away from the daily grudge.

          The White River campgrounds offer fire pit areas and some have picnic tables. I have been there a few times. It's quite the drive from Las Vegas. The site that I like is the site that you have to drive through the stream. DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS IN A CAR,OR A LOW SUV. Trucks are fine to cross over. I guess I need to go up again since it has been awhile. Need to get more pictures from this beautiful place.

        • Daniel C.
          Camper-submitted photo from White River
          Jul. 10, 2019

          White River

          We turned around

          We drove the 10 miles up the dirt road to these sites. The cows were the only grounds keepers. The main site across the creek from the one latrine we saw had too much water flowing through it to be able to drive over it.

        • Liesl K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Illipah Campground
          Jul. 11, 2018

          Illipah Campground

          Great for seeing stars!

          The location was cool, remote and pretty quiet (only the sounds of other campers). I recommend getting there in daylight, we didn't and it was difficult to tell what was where as far as campsites. Facilities weren't great, but they were there.

        • Laura O.
          Camper-submitted photo from Desert National Wildlife Range
          May. 5, 2015

          Desert National Wildlife Range

          Hidden Forest Trail

          The trail to Hidden forest starts off at Dead Mans Canyon trail head in the Nevada Wildlife Refuge. The road to the trail head is rocky and warrants a high profile vehicle and spare tires, just in case of a flat. The trail itself is fairly rocky all the way to the cabin, but the scenery is amazing. There are 2 campsites, one about half way up to the cabin and then 2 at the cabin. There is water at the cabin but its really reserved for wildlife and the Creek bed should be used to filter your own. The cabin itself is really an amazing piece of history, built in the late 1800's by unknown. There are big horn sheep, mountain lions, lots of birds and reptiles to peek at if your quiet. (We were not as this was our first pack in/pack out trip). Plan to stay warm in the cabin if it's still cold at night, the wood stove works nicely. If you prefer the stars like us, dress warm or warm some rocks in the fire and wrap in a blanket in the tent. If you're looking for solitude this hike has it and its an amazing find right outside of Las Vegas.



        Guide to Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

        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.

        What to do:

        • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers have enjoyed the beautiful scenery, with one reviewer noting, "Great trails for hiking and biking" at Ward Mountain Campground.
        • Fishing: If you love fishing, check out the nearby lakes. One camper at Lake View Campground mentioned, "This campground is just the best spot! A minute walk to the lake and spacious camping sites."
        • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Spencer Hot Springs shared, "We loved the Burro visits at dusk."

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A reviewer at Hickison Petroglyph said, "The bathrooms and camp site amenities are great."
        • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One visitor at Ely KOA noted, "The staff was very friendly. Nice site level clean and spacious."
        • Scenic Views: The breathtaking views are a highlight for many. A camper at Garnet Hill Camp remarked, "Weather and sunsets have been awesome."

        What you should know:

        • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hot Creek Campground, have basic facilities. A reviewer mentioned, "Campground is basically a dirt lot with restrooms and shade."
        • Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads. One camper at Bob Scott Campground noted, "The road in is 6 miles of good gravel."
        • Water Availability: Not all campgrounds have potable water. A visitor at Ward Charcoal Ovens mentioned, "Water was available, pit toilets, no showers."

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. A parent at Lake View Campground said, "Restrooms and showers were clean! Park rangers and maintenance folks are very friendly."
        • Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. One family at Spencer Hot Springs enjoyed, "We woke up to the sound of wild burrows and coyotes."
        • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone energized with easy-to-carry snacks. A camper at Ely KOA mentioned, "Hometown Pizza delivers to your site, good pizza."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Road Access: Ensure your RV can navigate the roads. A reviewer at Garnet Hill Camp noted, "We drove our 25 ft class C without a problem."
        • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A visitor at Ely KOA appreciated, "Full hookups, clean and neat grounds with a beautiful view."
        • Be Mindful of Elevation: Higher elevations can affect your RV's performance. A camper at Ward Mountain Campground reminded others, "Gets chilly at night, high altitude."

        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 camping is available near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?

          According to TheDyrt.com, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 12 campgrounds and RV parks near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

        • Which is the most popular campground near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.

        • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?

          According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

        • What parks are near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest?

          According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest that allow camping, notably Great Basin National Park and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters.