Camping near Elko, Nevada offers opportunities in the Ruby Mountains, where elevations range from 5,000 to over 10,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the year. This high desert region experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below zero.
What to do
Fishing at Angel Lake: Just 12 miles south of Wells, this alpine lake sits at 8,500 feet elevation with rainbow and brook trout. "We got arrived a bit late at night, but this was such an easy campground to find! Not a lot of privacy between sites, and it was very open/no real trees/nature, however it's worth it for the view of the lake right below your spot! It looks to be popular for boating," notes a visitor to East Campground.
Mountain hiking: Explore the Ruby Mountains trail system with routes ranging from 1-12 miles. "This campground is surrounded by natural beauty. Snow capped mountains hang in the distance. The site is super clean and has flushable toilets and a non-fee shower. There are trails from camp to the water," reports a camper at East Campground.
Bird watching: South Fork Reservoir serves as a migratory stopover with documented sightings of loons, pelicans and rare thrushes. "Bird life is abundant in this area, with many species stopping along their migration route. We saw Loons, Dowitchers, White Pelicans, Coots and even the shy Hermit Thrush," observed a visitor to Jet Ski Beach.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas despite remote locations. "The dog park was small, but well maintained and provided waste bags. There is also a spa/hot tub available to guests which is a nice addition. They have clean bathrooms and laundry available as well," notes a camper at Iron Horse RV Resort.
Mountain views: Ruby Mountains provide dramatic backdrops visible from most area campgrounds. "Just like the next door campground of Coyote Cove, these shoreline campsites lack a lot of charm. But with your eyes constantly drawn to the Ruby Mountain's striking beauty, who needs anything more than the usual picnic table, sunshade, wind block screen, and fire ring," writes a visitor to Jet Ski Beach.
Privacy in forested sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots among aspen groves. "Well developed campgrounds with fire pits, grills, and tables. Vault toilets are also available. Good amount of privacy with all the trees," reports a camper at Thomas Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Many sites experience strong gusts, particularly in open areas near water. "All sites are on pavement but are close together. It's a nice place to stop if traveling through but too much concrete to feel like 'camping'," notes one camper about Iron Horse RV Resort.
Limited shade: Most campgrounds have minimal tree cover, requiring additional sun protection. "Simple sites on level lots, with a shade structure, picnic table, fire pit, bbq and right on the beach. Summer is much busier I'm sure. Pit toilets but no potable water so be sure to bring your own," advises a visitor to Jet Ski Beach.
Seasonal accessibility: Mountain roads close during winter snowfall. "We went to have a looks 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," warns a camper attempting to reach Camp Lamoille during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access: Sites near water provide natural entertainment for children. "Several dispersed camping sites before you get to the actual campground. Good spacing on the sites for privacy. Easy access to the creek for clean fresh water. Beautiful views!" recommends a visitor to Camp Lamoille.
Playground alternatives: Some campgrounds offer recreation areas beyond hiking. "This is a beautiful day use Picnic area (Power house for groups and single picnics) on the banks of Spring Creek. They have great views of the Creek very nice clean restrooms and the host Dale is the best," notes a visitor to Camp Lamoille.
Safety considerations: Be aware of weather changes and wildlife when camping with children. "The light pollution from the neighboring houses and from the town have made them less than wonderful. On a side note, there are feral cats here so don't leave out anything they may want to eat. We caught one jumping out of the back of our teardrop where we had left some bread," warns a camper at Jet Ski Beach.
Tips from RVers
Water availability: Not all sites offer potable water, requiring advance planning. "Each site has a cement pad, table, fire ring, bbq, and wind screen. The screen didn't help last night as it was very windy and blowing in another direction! Clean Pit toilets and no hook-ups," advises an RVer at Coyote Cove.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies widely throughout the region. "We weren't rv park people at all. We definitely prefer disbursed, alone camping. However, that wasn't a possibility last night so we decided to stay at Iron Horse. It's super nice. Very clean and quiet. The dog park is pretty convenient and the bathrooms are huge and clean."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management as facilities are limited. "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. The spots have 30/50amp hookups, potable water, and sewer," reports an RVer at Valley View RV Park.
