Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and surrounding areas in Nevada provide a range of camping experiences from established campgrounds to dispersed camping opportunities. The region includes sites like Ward Mountain Campground with its juniper and pine surroundings, as well as Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area offering waterfront camping. Visitors can choose between tent sites, RV-friendly areas with hookups such as Silver Sky Lodge RV Park, or more primitive options at dispersed sites across the region. Most campgrounds are situated in high desert terrain with mountain views and access to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many dispersed camping locations requiring high-clearance vehicles. Seasonal weather patterns affect accessibility, particularly during winter months when snow may limit access to higher elevation sites. Ward Mountain Campground typically operates from early June through mid-October, while lower elevation areas like Illipah Reservoir remain accessible year-round. Many campgrounds in the region lack drinking water, with vault toilets being the primary amenity. Cell service is sporadic throughout the area, with better coverage near towns like Ely. As one visitor noted, "Free campsites along the reservoir, windy up on the high spots. Fire pits, picnic tables with shade and wind fences. Great views, better for campervan or RV camping because of the high wind."
Campers consistently mention the scenic quality of the area's developed campgrounds, particularly those at higher elevations. Ward Mountain Campground receives high ratings for its privacy and well-maintained facilities, with one review highlighting that "it's surrounded by dense juniper and pine" and that "the wind in the trees makes good music." Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area is praised for its mountain views and free camping, though several visitors mention significant wind as a consideration when selecting a site. Some dispersed camping locations like Bartine Hot Springs can be challenging to locate, with visitors reporting confusing access roads and occasionally needing 4x4 vehicles after rain. Wildlife viewing opportunities, dark night skies, and quiet surroundings are frequently mentioned as highlights of camping in this remote Nevada region.
"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."
"All gravel very beautiful surroundings."
"The trail to Hidden forest starts off at Dead Mans Canyon trail head in the Nevada Wildlife Refuge."
$12 - $75 / 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."
"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."
RangerThis is a very nice place to spend some time. Great views and wild horses grazing. Bathroom is clean and trash can also. Fire pit, charcoal grill, and covered picnic tables. We even found a level spot. Large site.
ScoutGreat trails for biking, hiking, running. Modern. Clean. Bathrooms. Water but not when it’s freezing. So good!!!
RangerThe Dyrt coordinates are wrong. The DNWR is just north west of Las Vegas.
I've camped out here a lot. Very serene. Better to scout the area and know where the spots are.
TravelerThis is over a mile up a dirt road, but it’s well packed so our 2WD camper made it easily (in dry weather). Camp spot is great - has vault toilets, grills and a peaceful view of the reservoir. No road noise.
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
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest camping areas sit within the Basin and Range Province where wide valleys alternate with mountain ranges. Most camping takes place at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet, making summer days cooler than surrounding lowlands. Vault toilets are standard at established sites while cell service diminishes quickly when traveling away from Ely and other towns.
Fishing opportunities: At Illipah Reservoir Recreational Area, visitors can enjoy fishing in a mountain-surrounded reservoir. "There's a dirt road going around the reservoir and one can go for a long walk," notes Daniel V., who found the area accessible in a low-clearance vehicle.
Mountain biking: Ward Mountain offers multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "Great trails for biking, hiking, running. Modern. Clean. Bathrooms. Water but not when it's freezing," reports Erin D. about the recreation opportunities.
Wildlife viewing: The Basin and Range topography supports diverse wildlife populations. While camping at Illipah Reservoir, Patricia I. observed "wild horses grazing" near her campsite, adding to the natural experience.
Seasonal temperature refuge: The higher elevations provide relief from extreme desert heat. "With Las Vegas temps reaching 115, This is a beautiful respite with highs in the mid 80s," reports Kelly P. about Ward Mtn. Campground (Murray Summit).
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers value the peaceful settings away from urban noise. At Ward Mountain Campground, Janet K. appreciated that "Loop B is far enough from the road that we didn't hear the highway. Quiet, lots of space."
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution makes star viewing exceptional. "Dark night skies" are frequently mentioned in camper reviews, with many sites positioned away from towns and highways.
Road challenges: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Bartine Hot Springs, Jonathan M. warns "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."
Seasonal availability: High-elevation campgrounds close during winter months. Ward Mountain Campground typically operates from early June through mid-October, while lower sites remain accessible year-round.
Wind conditions: Strong winds affect many Basin and Range campsites. At Lunar Crater Camp, Cas M. reports "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 recommend this spot."
Sheltered sites: Look for campgrounds with wind protection features. At Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area, Kim S. found "some sites have shade structures, metal fire pits, easy dirt road in," making for comfortable family camping.
Access to towns: Camp within reasonable driving distance of services. Ward Mountain Campground sits just 6 miles from Ely, making supply runs convenient. Sean P. notes it's "Nice spot for a few days and close to a small town (Ely)."
Bathroom facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain vault toilets. At Barley Creek, Michael M. notes "There are no pit toilets," indicating families should prepare accordingly at more primitive sites.
Level sites: Many campgrounds feature relatively flat parking areas. At Silver Sky Lodge RV Park, Rebecca reports "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."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the region. James J. notes about Ward Mtn. 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."
Water access: Bring water supplies to most forest campgrounds. "At this time, the area lacks culinary water," James J. adds about Ward Mountain, with RV dump stations available only in towns like Ely.
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.
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