Camping opportunities near Carlin, Nevada range from established RV parks to remote dispersed sites. Located in the high desert region at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with nighttime temperatures dropping substantially even in summer months. Carlin sits between the Tuscarora Mountains and the Ruby Mountains, providing access to varied terrain for different camping styles.
What to do
Fishing at South Fork Reservoir: Located about 30 minutes from Carlin, this recreation area offers good fishing opportunities. According to one camper at Coyote Cove — South Fork State Recreation Area, "The area offers opportunities for water sports of all kinds, hiking & mountain biking along many trails, or just sitting by the shore with a line in the water."
Night sky viewing: The dark skies in this region provide excellent stargazing conditions. A camper at Biohome Research Facility notes, "We brought a telescope with us, and we were able to see Saturn's rings, Jupiter, and multiple other planets. The Milky Way seemed brighter and more vibrant."
Bird watching: The wetland areas attract diverse bird species. A visitor to Zunino-Jiggs Reservoir described it as a "BIRD AND WILDLIFE PARADISE" with "many kinds of birds" and a "killer view of mountains, sunset."
What campers like
Creek access at dispersed sites: The Lamoille Canyon area offers numerous spots near running water. A camper at Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping shared, "We turned right off of the FS road, there's several spots easily assessable via car, we went further down, rock crawling, high clearance required, and found the perfect spot nestled in the trees about 10ft from Lamoille Creek."
Clean facilities in established campgrounds: The maintained amenities at developed sites receive positive mentions. A visitor to Clark Park reported, "The facility was clean and welcoming... The two bathrooms were amazingly clean."
Mountain views: The scenic vistas of the Ruby Mountains impress many visitors. A camper at Humboldt National Forest Thomas Canyon Campground wrote, "We were in campsite 26 which backed right up to water. It was great! We had a beautiful view of the canyon valley and the stars at night were perfect. Plenty of space and privacy."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Shoreline campsites can experience significant wind. A visitor to Coyote Cove noted, "The wind screen didn't help last night as it was very windy and blowing in another direction!"
Road access limitations: Some of the most desirable dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. A Camp Lamoille visitor advised, "Much like the other reviews there are a few easy to get to spots off of FS Rd 660... If you keep going the last two spots (high clearance required) are right next to the creek."
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Carlin experience railroad disturbances. A camper at Iron Horse RV Resort mentioned, "A train that goes by at least two times and blows its horn (this on a Saturday night). The coyotes in the middle of the night were wonderful but the trains weren't."
Seasonal closures: Some recreation areas have limited winter access. One camper noted about Camp Lamoille, "We went to have a look and less than a mile in the road was covered by several feet of snow. We have a 4wd and I couldn't have gotten through without damage."
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with amenities: Some locations offer facilities that appeal to families with children. A reviewer at Iron Horse RV Resort mentioned, "The main office has a nice game room, laundry facilities and ultra clean bathrooms and showers."
Swimming opportunities: South Fork Reservoir provides water recreation options. A camper noted, "The Jet Ski Beach is a great beach for swimming, launching canoes, kayaks, small fishing boats, or personal watercraft."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot various animal species. A visitor at Coyote Cove observed, "Bird life is abundant in this area, with many species stopping along their migration route. We saw Loons, Dowwitchers, White Pelicans, Coots, and even the shy Hermit Thrush."
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: Some RV parks offer good value for basic needs. A camper at Valley View RV Park shared, "Found this gem from a billboard that seemed too good to be true: $14/night for a spot with showers and laundry. While it may not look like much, fourteen dollars was well worth the price."
Off-peak advantages: Traveling outside summer months can provide a more peaceful experience. One RVer at Iron Horse noted, "We aren't rv park people at all. We definitely prefer disbursed, alone camping... Having the hookups was so nice given how cold it's getting at night."
Dog-friendly facilities: For those traveling with pets, dedicated areas are available at some campgrounds. An Iron Horse visitor mentioned, "The dog park was small, but well maintained and provided waste bags."
