East Humboldt Wilderness dispersed camping offers accessible backcountry sites at 6,200 feet elevation with mountain views throughout the Ruby Mountains region. The landscape features aspen groves, mountain creeks, and high desert terrain that transitions dramatically from valley floor to alpine peaks. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during daytime hours while dropping significantly at night due to the elevation.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Angel Creek Campground provides excellent wildlife spotting with many campers reporting deer sightings throughout the area. "I saw my first Lewis's woodpecker, watched a Harrier hunting, a flock of soaring, bug eating Common Nighthawks, deer everywhere. Stunning views of the terrain," notes Deborah D. at Humboldt National Forest Angel Creek Campground.
Fishing at Angel Lake: The alpine lake located above Wells offers trout fishing throughout the summer season. "The lake itself was cool, clear, and refreshing to swim in! Many were kayaking and paddle boarding, and it was a relaxing environment all around with very friendly people," reports Chani K. from Angel Lake Campground.
Hot spring soaking: 12 Mile Hot Springs provides natural thermal pools approximately 30 miles north of Deeth. "The hot spring water temp is perfect. There's plenty of room though when I went there were few people there," shares Christopher D. at 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping.
Mountain hiking trails: The East Humboldt Range features multiple hiking routes suitable for various ability levels. "There were a bunch of people fishing in the early hours while we headed to the small hike up to the waterfall above Angel Lake. There were other trailheads that we didn't get to as well," writes Chani K.
What Campers Like
Natural features: The dramatic mountain backdrop creates striking views from most camping areas. "Beautiful location. Close enough to the highway to stay here on a road trip but far enough that the only sounds I noticed at night were the deer or elk in the area," states Autumn B. about Angel Creek Campground.
Quiet, secluded sites: Dispersed camping options provide more solitude than developed campgrounds. "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," describes Grayce F. of East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping.
Shade trees: Several campgrounds feature aspen groves providing natural shade. "This is a pleasant little camping spot in the hills outside of Wells. There isn't a lot of privacy; camping spots are clustered around stands of aspens dotted along the hillside," explains Art T.
Access to water features: Many campsites are located near streams or lakes. "We stayed about .20 miles before the spring along Bishop Creek. 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.
What You Should Know
Road conditions: Access roads to backcountry sites can be challenging without proper vehicles. "The roads were rough, I got through with my Subaru Outback but it definitely hit the frame a couple of times. There were a couple creek crossings," warns Sam M. about 12 Mile Hot Springs.
Limited amenities: Many dispersed camping areas have no facilities. "This time of year, little traffic on the road. It was windy for our entire stay and the place we found this spot from said it was windy. Flat space, 3 bars Verizon, nice view, quiet, windy and no amenities," notes Mark H. about Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out.
Grazing cattle presence: Free-range cattle frequent many camping areas around Deeth. "East Humboldt Wilderness is a nice, quiet spot for camping. There are free-roaming cows in the area, which added a unique touch—they kept to themselves, and we did the same," explains Adrian H.
Campsite availability: Angel Creek Campground can fill quickly during peak season. "And it can be a little crowded because there are very few NFS campgrounds in this part of Nevada. But its pretty, clean, and well managed," reports Art T.
Tips for Camping with Families
Shallow water access: Angel Lake provides kid-friendly water areas. "The lake is nice and easily accessible from campground. While shrubby aspens mean no shade, there is quite a bit of privacy," writes Mark M. from Angel Lake Campground.
Astronomical viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities for children. "And the stars - oh my god, I've never seen so many stars. We do a lot of camping, and this is at least in my top 10 of awe-inspiring overnight stays," shares Norma Y.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds provide opportunities for wildlife education. "Watch for deer and wild turkeys wandering through the campground," advises Alison at Angel Creek Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Plan family visits during appropriate weather windows. "The elevation is 8400 feet, and the views are incredible. There were so many wildflowers in bloom, in such artfully arranged groups of color and form," notes Norma Y.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Welcome Station RV Park offers full utilities for larger rigs. "This RV park is not very big! It is a peaceful, warm, friendly place to stay over night or for a week. Staff are always on hand and most helpful," reports Brian S. from Welcome Station RV Park.
RV size limitations: Many forest service campgrounds have restricted access for larger vehicles. "The only drawbacks are that the sites are not very level and it would be difficult to get a rig longer than 30 feet into most of the sites," advises Clancy H. about Angel Creek Campground.
Alternative RV options: Angel Lake RV Park in Wells provides convenient access for larger vehicles. "All gravel sites. All pull thru sites. Tight spaces. Full hook ups. Right of I80. Self checkin. Clean, neat," describes Madeline S.
Campground amenities: Several RV parks include extra features beyond basic hookups. "The owners take great pride in maintaining the property and treating their guests with courtesy. You can tell that this family-owned business wants you to have an enjoyable experience," explains Tom B.
