Baker, Nevada sits at 5,300 feet elevation where the Great Basin Desert meets the Snake Range mountains. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during the day while dropping to the 40s at night, creating significant temperature swings campers should prepare for. The area's remote location contributes to the exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities that attract many visitors seeking premium stargazing conditions.
What to do
Ancient bristlecone hikes: Baker Creek Campground provides excellent access to Great Basin National Park's ancient bristlecone pine groves. "There are trails running off from the campground so no driving is necessary," notes Liv L., who appreciated the convenience of trailhead access directly from camp.
Stargazing sessions: The area's minimal light pollution makes it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. At Schellraiser, the camping areas provide excellent night sky viewing platforms. Skyler M. shared, "Booked through Airbnb. Great place to stay with a variety of camping, tent, or tiny house options."
Creek exploration: Let children splash in the gentle waters at Baker Creek Campground. Thomas B. described their experience: "This beautiful campground is located at the top of a three-mile corduroy gravel road along the babbling Baker Creek, and many of the sites (including ours - #2) are located within toe-dipping distance of its chilly clear waters."
Wildlife observation: The campgrounds frequently host wildlife visitors. Michael J. from Baker Creek Campground mentioned, "Very nice campground with ample wild life to keep you entertained, turkeys roaming through camp, roosting in trees, and yellow bellied marmots eating the road for it's salt content."
What campers like
Secluded creek-side sites: Bird Creek Campground offers unique waterfront camping spots. Jaklyn C. recommends "Site 5 is a great spot. However the site itself is across the little bridge from the parking area so be prepared to walk some stuff into the site."
Clean facilities: The premium glamping options near Baker maintain high cleanliness standards. At Ely KOA, Susan N. observed, "We have been roaming around Nevada for a week now and this is the nicest campground we have stayed at. New bathrooms, clean, friendly and helpful staff and trees!"
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites for privacy. Ted C. noted about Baker Creek Campground, "Bakers Creek campsite is great. The sights are good sized, and they're spaced pretty well. Definitely won't run into you're neighbors."
Shade availability: In this high desert environment, shade becomes a prized amenity. At Bird Creek Recreation Area, Hallie appreciated that "there was plenty of shade. With the high elevation the nights did get chilly even though the days were warm."
What you should know
Elevation considerations: The high elevation affects camping conditions year-round. Greebly M. advises about Baker Creek: "It sits above a mile elevation, so the temps were decent at night, with gorgeous night sky views."
Limited services: Baker's remote location means limited facilities. Greebly M. continues, "Unlike most NPs this one doesn't really have a town to service it. There's a small general store in town that has stuff ($$$) and a Sinclair with gas (also $$$)."
Seasonal operations: Most glamping in Baker, Nevada operates on a limited schedule. Cleve Creek Campground is a "Free BLM campground with a 14 day limit," according to Alison, who notes it's a hidden gem with year-round water access.
Unpredictable weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. Hallie from Bird Creek Recreation Area experienced that "the nights did get chilly even though the days were warm. Drinking water available and pit toilets. No electric or hookups and no cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Pack for temperature swings: Prepare clothing layers for dramatic day-to-night temperature changes. Shannon R. from Timber Creek Campground noted, "Beautiful tailpipes and aspens with a flowing creek. Road is a bit rough up, have the trailer secured."
Bring entertainment: Limited cell service means offline activities are essential. At Baker Creek Campground, Sam B. found that "site 16 was a great find. Camped right next to the creek behind the main area with picnic table and fire ring."
Check site dimensions: Some sites have limited space for multiple tents. Deborah C. warned about Baker Creek Campground: "Our particular campsite #5 was not the best. The place to set up our tent was very small and sloping down."
Scout for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific family facilities. At Ely KOA, Brittney C. highlighted, "This place is great it has a pool, playground, so many family activities, a big grass area for the tent campers which is super cool."
Tips from RVers
Reserve ahead: RV sites fill quickly during peak season. Jennifer T. found at Ely KOA, "This is your typical KOA. Open area with several pull thru's for big rigs. They have a decent little store with drinks, snacks, and novelty items."
Prepare for dirt roads: Many access roads to campgrounds are unpaved. Allison W. from Timber Creek Campground advises, "This is a popular stop near the town of Ely (a couple miles north off the highway; the closest town is actually McGill)."
Consider site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Robert R. from Ely KOA noted, "As usual with KOA, it was bit on the pricey side. They could have used some dust control on the gravel roads as well... sites were level, and the front desk lady was so friendly!"
