Dispersed camping near Deeth, Nevada offers access to high desert terrain at approximately 5,000-6,000 feet elevation with sagebrush plateaus transitioning to mountain peaks. Seasonal temperature swings are significant, with summer daytime temperatures reaching 90°F while dropping to 40-50°F overnight. Winter access becomes difficult as many roads close due to snow accumulation from October through April.
What to do
Explore hot springs: Visit 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping where the natural pools provide a perfect soak after hiking. "I spent three days here in the middle of a week in August. Perfect place for a hot nude hike in and out, and a nude soak at the destination," reports one visitor. The surrounding warm creek creates additional recreational opportunities.
Photograph wildlife: Free-range cattle frequently appear at camping areas, especially in early morning hours. At East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping, expect unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "Great spot - fantastic views and a little wetland over the valley. Only one spot, and free grazing cows - fantastic Milky Way star gazing on a clear night," notes Grayce F.
Creek exploration: Several sites feature creek access for water filtration and wading. "We stayed right next to the warm creek, about a quarter mile before the hot spring and walked to the spring several times a day," shares a camper about their experience at 12 Mile Hot Springs.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The remote locations around Deeth provide minimal light pollution for astronomy. One camper at Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping appreciated "beautiful views" while another at East Humboldt mentioned "fantastic Milky Way star gazing on a clear night."
Creek proximity: Many rustic campsites near Deeth provide creek access. "We went further down, rock crawling, high clearance required, and found the perfect spot nestled in the trees about 10ft from Lamoille Creek," reports Callie F. about Camp Lamoille.
Isolation: Low visitation rates even during peak season provide solitude at most sites. "I arrived way after dark, it was late so I couldn't see anything. Got up the next morning and saw the creek, high rock walls. Took a hike and explored," shares Jeff F. about his peaceful experience at 12 Mile Hot Springs.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles needed: Most dispersed camping areas require capable vehicles. At Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out, "You go up a steep 2 track a very short distance, 2wd can do it for now but it's in the process of washing out," explains johny R.
No facilities: Prepare for true primitive camping without water or toilets. "No services, take everything with you!" emphasizes Jason & Sara S. about 12 Mile Hot Spring.
Seasonal closures: Winter access becomes extremely difficult. "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," warns Ana P. about Camp Lamoille roads during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Children enjoy wading in warm creek areas. "The creek water is warm from the hot spring and made for some fun exploring and even cooling off on a hot July day!" shares Jason & Sara S. about 12 Mile Hot Spring.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about respectful wildlife viewing. "There were free-roaming cows in the area, which added a unique touch—they kept to themselves, and we did the same," notes Adrian H. about BLM off 93 North NV.
Prepare for variable weather: Mountain elevations create rapid temperature changes requiring layered clothing even in summer. "Little traffic overnight no noise and a dark sky," mentions johny R. about the Angel Lake area, where nights remain cool year-round.
Tips from RVers
Pull-out selection: Choose graded pull-outs carefully for leveling. "Quiet and scenic with no amenities, simply a place to sleep overnight on a road trip. Highway 93 is in sight, but you can't hear it. The Gravel Rd. is well maintained and you can drive till you find a nice off-road spot," advises Tim D. about BLM land off Highway 93.
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have minimal options for larger vehicles to turn around. "There's a big spot for a U Turn as well," mentions Daniil O. about East Humboldt Wilderness access, making it more suitable for smaller rigs.
Limited site options: Many camping areas contain just 1-3 suitable spots for RVs. "If you turn left off of FS 660, there are about 4 spots easily accessible, but if you keep going the last two spots (high clearance required) are right next to the creek," explains Callie F. about the Camp Lamoille area.
