Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Austin, NV

Bob Scott Campground's maintained pet-friendly sites allow overnight stays for campers with dogs and cats. This established camping area near Austin offers pets access to the natural surroundings of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest with juniper and pinyon pine trees providing natural shade. Picnic tables, fire pits, and barbecue stands are available at most sites. Nearby Spencer Hot Springs provides free dispersed camping options for pet owners seeking a more primitive experience. Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area allows pets throughout its campground and hiking trails. Austin RV Park provides full hookups for travelers with pets but sites are notably tight and close together with limited space for pet exercise. Most campgrounds in the area have no breed or size restrictions but pets must remain leashed in public areas. Sites at Bob Scott Campground are somewhat unlevel but manageable for most RV types, including travel trailers up to 30 feet.

The remote desert location requires pet owners to bring ample water for their animals, especially during summer months when temperatures can rise significantly during daytime hours. Most campgrounds lack dedicated pet exercise areas, instead providing access to surrounding public lands for dog walking. The juniper-pinyon forest environment contains Mormon crickets during certain seasons that may attract curious pets. Big Creek Campground, located 15 miles from Austin, offers additional pet-friendly options with campsites situated along a creek that provides water access for dogs needing to cool off. Highway noise is audible at Bob Scott Campground, which may disturb noise-sensitive pets during nighttime hours. Cell service is surprisingly good at some locations, with Bob Scott Campground receiving strong signals from multiple carriers despite its remote setting. During hunting seasons, pet owners should be particularly vigilant about keeping dogs leashed and visible.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Austin, Nevada (12)

    1. Bob Scott Campground

    14 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 964-2671

    $10 / night

    "Just outside Austin in the beautiful Pinyon Juniper forest in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. It’s right off the two lane road so you’ll have some road sounds."

    "Near lightly used hwy. Near Austin. Sites a bit unlevel but doable with 30 ft travel trailer. Slight trench from previous campers made it perfectly level."

    2. Hickison Petroglyph

    18 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    18 miles
    Website

    "Hickison Petroglyphs Recreation Area is about 26 miles east of Austin Nevada on Highway 50. Highway was deemed Lonliest Highway by Life magazine about 20 years ago. There is a sign marking turn."

    "Driving cross country from California, we were looking to pull off in the middle of nowhere Nevada. Every place we came across was packed to the gills. No vacancies in sight."

    3. Spencer Hot Springs

    14 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    17 miles
    +1 (775) 964-2200

    "Great dispersed camping on BLM land, right next to hot springs. One of our favorite dispersed sites as well as hot springs."

    "here exploring the hot springs, the gold mines in the local area (do not go in though), and the Toquima Caves with ancient Pictographs about 8 miles further up the same service road I came in on 001 next to"

    4. Austin RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (775) 964-1011

    5. Big Creek Campground

    4 Reviews
    Austin, NV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 964-2671

    "Big Creek Canyon is beautiful about 15 miles from the town of Austin and is full of Aspens. There are probably about 10 sites in the campground with plenty of space between each site."

    "Tons of trails to explore on dirt bikes and quads. A lot of horse trails. The campsite is against a little creek and has a vault toilet."

    7. Kingston

    1 Review
    Austin, NV
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 964-2671

    "Access to the campground is via a 2.5 mile long single lane dirt road. There are a few small wider spots to squeeze past oncoming traffic, but locals tend to travel fast, so be vigilant."

    8. Toquima Cave Campground

    1 Review
    Austin, NV
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 964-2671

    9. Kingston Home Base

    Be the first to review!
    Austin, NV
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (818) 326-6540

    $25 - $35 / night

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Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Austin, NV

8 Photos of 12 Austin Campgrounds


Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Austin, NV

63 Reviews of 12 Austin Campgrounds


  • graham K.
    Apr. 28, 2020

    Big Creek Campground

    Great, developed but primitive campground in Nevada

    Nice little campground toward the mouth of Big Creek Canyon. The campground is right on the creek. Big Creek Canyon is beautiful about 15 miles from the town of Austin and is full of Aspens. There are probably about 10 sites in the campground with plenty of space between each site. Hunting season gets busy but I have never seen more than one or two groups in the campground at one time if it’s not hunting season. There is not a ton of privacy within the campground but there is plenty of space for each campsite. There are trout in the creek and easily accessible depending on how much snow the mountain range got the winter before. The road that goes through Big Creek Canyon is a decent BLM road that will take you to the summit of the range then down into Kingston which is a fun adventure. If you like camping in Nevada but don’t like dry camping or digging holes to use the bathroom, this place is awesome!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 9, 2021

    Hickison Petroglyph

    Hidden gem

    Hickison Petroglyphs Recreation Area is about 26 miles east of Austin Nevada on Highway 50. Highway was deemed Lonliest Highway by Life magazine about 20 years ago. There is a sign marking turn. If going towards Austin it will be on the right side of highway. After you make the turn road becomes gravel and there is a cattle guard. The road is in good shape and it is a short distance to Recreation Area. Several pit toilets no water. There are garbage cans spaced throughout the camp ground. Not all camp spaces have same equipment. There are sites with covered picnic tables fire pits and grills. There are tent sites small rv might be one pull through site. None of the sites are large and there are several small trees along the drive. Drive is One Way. First come first serve. We were here for three days and there was medium level of traffic. Breeze most of the time

  • Ariel & John  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2020

    Spencer Hot Springs

    Swim with the donkeys!

    Free/dispersed only.

    Great dispersed camping on BLM land, right next to hot springs. One of our favorite dispersed sites as well as hot springs. There are 5-6 different springs within close proximity and at different temperatures so look around and try them all. The abundant wild donkeys and pronghorn also use the cooler warm springs as a drinking hole which makes an interesting soak. The spots around the springs fill up but there are lots of hills and land around to get some space. No amenities of any kind, dispersed/boondocking only.

    Between towns of Austin and Eureka on 50. When we were there, these little towns and few others on way to Tonopah believed COVID-19 was a hoax and many businesses & restaurants shunned mask use or social distancing (see photo).

    The hot springs are easier to find first time if you come in off 376 rather than 50.

    Plus code: 85F5 84GR+P3

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2020

    Austin RV Park

    Rough and ready

    Church parking lot packed in with RVs, several lived in by members of road crew working on main route through town. Dusty surface. Hook-ups fine. Shower area clean but rough around the edges. Convenient and cheap in the middle of Nevada. Did I mention that we were packed in like sardines? Staff available, responsive by return phone call, and friendly. All that said, the drive on Highway 50 through Nevada was austerely gorgeous, and we were happy to have hook-ups mid-state.

  • D
    Aug. 18, 2018

    Bob Scott Campground

    Road trip Campground

    Just outside Austin in the beautiful Pinyon Juniper forest in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. It’s right off the two lane road so you’ll have some road sounds. It was a perfect stop at the end of a day driving with a nice variety of campsites to choose from, toilets and water. The landscape here is sweeping and stunning. You could set up camp and drive into the lovely town of Austin for a bite to eat or other provisions. I was tent camping and there were a couple on motorcycles and two RVs.

  • PJ F.
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Hickison Petroglyph

    Worlds away..

    Driving cross country from California, we were looking to pull off in the middle of nowhere Nevada. Every place we came across was packed to the gills. No vacancies in sight. Actually, there wasn’t much in sight really. We were smack dab in the middle of nowhere, slightly desert/ plain like surroundings on America’s loneliest highway - Nevada’s Highway 50. We stumbled upon the petroglyphs. We pulled into the unmanned site , placed a bit off the main drag. It somehow managed to be in the middle of nowhere but tucked away all at the same time. Its bare bones , people. No fees, not much in the way of other people & no amenities that we knew of., except a picnic table & a fire pit/ring. That was fine by us. We had our minivan & our dogs & that’s all we needed. This was a totally fly by night camping adventure but that’s what made it so great! There are designated spots that actually had quite a bit of privacy from our fellow camper- not that we needed it but it’s what we look for most. It was sheer luck. We weren’t fully prepared for our detour so we had no wood. No problemo! We took to the plain , scouting the landscape for sagebrush & pinecones. It added to the charm. We burned that all night & it smelled like heaven. The night was warm, peaceful & void of any biting insects. We slept crammed in the minivan van with all our windows open , sweet fresh night air flowing thru. It was dark & desolate but somehow felt perfectly safe & we slept like logs. We woke just in time for the most spectacular sunrise & jack rabbits abound. It was glorious. The petroglyphs themselves were kind of an afterthought. We didn’t really see many & were slightly underwhelmed. But the cliffs & Rocks were pretty beautiful & colorful. The dogs enjoyed climbing & exploring. It was seemingly completely empty in the morning too. Not a soul around. It was kind of neat to feel like you had an entire campsite to yourself!

    Btw- bathrooms are disgusting. I imagine no one gets out there too often for maintenance. But it was no bother. Just suck it up & pull up a nice piece of brush to squat in . You’ll live.

    We’d definitely find ourselves back here again. The peace & sense of adventure was immeasurable. It’s a different kind of camping . Perfect for keeping things interesting!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2021

    Bob Scott Campground

    Quiet CG

    Only 3 other sites ocupied (looks primarily by hunters this time of year). Near lightly used hwy. Near Austin. Sites a bit unlevel but doable with 30 ft travel trailer. Slight trench from previous campers made it perfectly level.

  • M
    Jul. 22, 2022

    Bob Scott Campground

    Easy access, desert shade

    This campground sits just off of Hwy50 east of Austin, NV. Nice and cool 7,100ft above the desert. Pleasant sites, flush toilets, & water. Sunsets and sage scents are a highlight. Piñon Pines for shade.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Hickison Petroglyph

    Nice Free Campground

    Overnight stay traveling across Nevada. We came in around 3:30 PM on a Friday and was about 2/3 full. Sites are small. You can fit a van or pickup camper easily. Very small trailers would also fit but would have to park tow vehicle in main lot.
    There are pit toilets and trash cans. No water. No dump. You do get a fire pit and sheltered picnic table in each site. Fantastic free campground in a beautiful area.


Guide to Austin

Bob Scott Campground is currently closed for renovations with no set reopening date. Located in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Austin, Nevada at 6,700 feet elevation, this area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching the 90s and nights dropping into the 40s. Winter brings snow and below-freezing temperatures, making most campgrounds in the region seasonal operations that close from November through mid-May.

What to do

Explore petroglyphs: At Hickison Petroglyph, visitors can examine ancient rock art along a short interpretive trail. "There is a sign marking turn. If going towards Austin it will be on the right side of highway. After you make the turn road becomes gravel and there is a cattle guard," notes reviewer N.I. The petroglyphs themselves are accessible via a walking path with interpretive signage.

Soak in hot springs: The mineral-rich waters at Spencer Hot Springs offer relaxation after hiking or driving. "The upper tub was not warm enough for me 97*. The lower however was 107* which I loved," reports TC A. The springs feature multiple soaking options including a constructed tub and more natural pools with varying temperatures.

Fishing opportunities: Anglers can fish for trout in Big Creek near Big Creek Campground. "There are trout in the creek and easily accessible depending on how much snow the mountain range got the winter before," explains graham K. Fish populations are seasonal and dependent on water levels, making spring and early summer typically the best fishing periods.

What campers like

Stargazing conditions: The remote location creates ideal dark sky viewing. "It was dark & desolate but somehow felt perfectly safe & we slept like logs. We woke just in time for the most spectacular sunrise & jack rabbits abound," writes PJ F. about their experience at Hickison Petroglyph. Limited light pollution allows visibility of the Milky Way on clear nights.

Wildlife encounters: The region hosts diverse desert wildlife including wild burros. "At sunset, kick back in your chair or in the hot spring and watch and listen to the wild burrows come in from the desert to drink and graze," shares Annie C. about Spencer Hot Springs. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Budget-friendly options: Free and low-cost sites make this area accessible for pet friendly camping near Austin. "This free site was better than most state parks! Drive in spots with picnic tables and fire pits, clean bathrooms, and cool petroglyphs," notes Kristian W. about Hickison Petroglyph. Most established campgrounds charge $5-10 per night with dispersed camping options available at no cost.

What you should know

Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "Access to the campground is via a 2.5 mile long single lane dirt road. There are a few small wider spots to squeeze past oncoming traffic, but locals tend to travel fast, so be vigilant," warns Erik J. about Kingston Campground. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote sites, especially after rain.

Limited amenities: Most campgrounds provide basic facilities or none at all. "No facilities but some rock fire rings. Please pack it in/pack it out!!" emphasizes Janet K. regarding Spencer Hot Springs. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water, as most sites have no potable source.

Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from none to surprisingly good. "Verizon is 3-4 bars!" reports TC A. about Spencer Hot Springs. Coverage is generally better at higher elevations and locations closer to Highway 50, with valleys often having no service.

Tips for camping with families

Beginner-friendly campground: Toquima Cave Campground offers accessible facilities for families. "Getting here was super easy. Don't need high clearance vehicle. Lots of trees, two or more pit toilets. Great rocks structures and lots of fire pits," shares Linda L. The campground's manageable access road makes it suitable for family vehicles without specialized equipment.

Safety considerations: Remote locations require extra preparation with children. "We love going out here. Gets busy on holiday weekends but decent during the week. Tons of trails to explore on dirt bikes and quads. A lot of horse trails," notes Matt D. about Big Creek Campground. Families should bring comprehensive first aid kits and emergency supplies due to distance from medical facilities.

Educational opportunities: Several sites feature natural or historical learning experiences. "Be sure to walk to the top of the ridge at sunset for some incredible views," suggests Kristian W. about Hickison Petroglyph. The interpretive trails provide opportunities to teach children about native cultures and geology in an outdoor classroom setting.

Tips from RVers

Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "We towed our 30 foot bumper pull behind our full size truck (49 feet tip to tail) and made it but this is right at the limits for maneuvering," explains Erik J. about Kingston Campground. Sites at most campgrounds accommodate smaller trailers up to 25 feet, with few options for larger RVs.

Unlevel terrain: Be prepared to level your RV at most area campgrounds. "Sites a bit unlevel but doable with 30 ft travel trailer. Slight trench from previous campers made it perfectly level," notes Cliff about Bob Scott Campground. Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended as most sites have natural slopes.

Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to in-town locations. "Tight parking spaces. Full hook up. Toilet and shower old but clean. One night 35 $," reports Holger E. about Austin RV Park. Most forest and BLM campgrounds offer no hookups, requiring RVers to be self-sufficient with water tanks and power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Austin, NV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Austin, NV is Bob Scott Campground with a 4-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Austin, NV?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dog-friendly camping locations near Austin, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.