Dispersed tent camping near Deeth, Nevada offers primitive high-desert sites within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Located at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, this northeastern Nevada region experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations, with summer days often exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures dropping well below freezing. Visitors camping in this area should prepare for significant temperature swings even in summer months, when nighttime temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs.
What to do
Hot spring exploration: The thermal waters at 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping provide a unique experience in this high desert landscape. "Epic spot. Got all the way to the hot spring with a non-modified 4WD w/ decent clearance and a skilled driver, but it is September so the water crossings were low," notes miranda. The spring itself is approximately a quarter-mile walk from most camping areas.
Creek exploration: The warm creek running through the 12 Mile Hot Springs area creates opportunities for wading and exploration. "The creek water is warm from the hot spring and made for some fun exploring and even cooling off on a hot July day," reports Jason & Sara S. This feature makes the area uniquely suited for extended stays during summer months.
Stargazing: The remote location and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing conditions at East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping. Camper Grayce F. confirms this appeal: "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."
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Tent camping locations around Deeth remain relatively uncrowded outside of weekends. "There were days when we had the spring all to ourselves, weekends got crowded," reports Ariel & John W. about their stay at 12 Mile Hot Springs. This pattern holds consistent across most dispersed camping areas in the region.
Warm water access: Many tent sites position campers near thermal-influenced water sources. "We camped right next to the warm creek, about a quarter mile before the hot spring and walked to the spring several times a day," shares one visitor about their Camp Draw Trailhead experience. This natural feature creates comfortable wading conditions even during cooler seasons.
Easy access sites: Some tent camping areas provide accessibility without specialized vehicles. Daniil O. notes about East Humboldt Wilderness: "Good view felt safe and my fiesta sedan made it with zero issues. There's a big spot for a U Turn as well." This contrasts with the more challenging access at other dispersed sites in the region.
What you should know
Limited established sites: Many camping areas near Deeth offer minimal development with few defined tent spots. Spencer notes about East Humboldt: "It has a nice, view, a river right by, is right off a paved road, only downside is there is only really one spot so not many people can camp here but I was alone my whole time here so it's not that popular."
Rough road conditions: Access to some tent camping areas requires careful driving and appropriate vehicles. Sam M. warns about Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Terraces Picnic and Group Camping Site: "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, I only attempted the first one but we just walked 10 minutes to the pools."
Wildlife encounters: Tent campers should prepare for interactions with both domestic and wild animals. "The cows were a little scary and we saw a snake," reports one camper about their stay at 12 Mile Hot Springs. Free-range cattle commonly appear at many sites throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Water crossing assessment: Families with children should evaluate creek crossings before attempting vehicle passage. "Expect locals who visit the spring for a day trip. No services, take everything with you," advises Jason & Sara S., highlighting the importance of planning when bringing children to these remote areas.
Timing considerations: Weekday camping provides more private experiences for families. Meghan V. notes about 12 Mile Hot Springs: "Went in the AM and barely had anyone around. That changed as we progressed into the afternoon (note this was on a Saturday)." This pattern affects most tent camping areas around Deeth.
Alternative sites: For families seeking more facilities, consider established campgrounds. Allison W. explains about Terraces Campground: "It isn't too far off the beaten path compared to other campgrounds in the area, so a good solution for a family reunion or something where different campers have different comfort levels. There is potable water and vault toilets available but no hookups."
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles only: Most tent camping areas near Deeth present significant challenges for RVs and trailers. "Road is extremely difficult/had three creek crossings about ankle to knee deep. We made it all the way back and had the place to ourselves!" notes reina L. about accessing 12 Mile Hot Springs. Large vehicles and standard RVs cannot access many dispersed sites.
Seasonal road closure awareness: Road conditions vary dramatically by season, with winter closures affecting access. "Road out to angel lake closed so was humboldt loop," reports Lydia E., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions before attempting tent camping trips with vehicles during shoulder seasons.
Parking limitations: Even accessible sites have constraints for larger vehicles. "Camp Draw Trailhead is basically a free and easy place to kick off into the Jarbridge Wilderness Area... Amenities include vault toilets and packed dirt parking areas. No water!" advises allison W., underlining the primitive nature of available facilities.
