The high desert around Ely, Nevada sits between 6,500-8,000 feet elevation, creating distinct camping conditions compared to lower-elevation Nevada destinations. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, while summer evenings remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Most camping spots near Ely, Nevada offer juniper and pine shade coverage, with established sites typically featuring fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park offers fascinating historical structures alongside camping options. "The ovens are fascinating. The campsite is a little way back down the road then left up the other side of the tiny valley. Nice spot, but water is not available right now. Lots of nice hiking if you do it early to beat the heat," notes Sarah M.
Go fishing: Anglers can enjoy multiple fishing opportunities at Lake View Campground, where rainbow and brown trout are frequently caught. "Fishing was awesome. Lake is native and stocked with rainbow and brown trout," reports Laura F. The lake has restrictions on swimming due to muddy conditions.
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail networks for riders of all skill levels. Connie C. from Elk Flat Campground shares: "Nearby there are several great hikes/mountain bike trails. Cave Lake is also close. It is a small lake perfect for swimming, canoeing or kayaking. There are also several OHV roads."
Rockhounding: Garnet Hill allows visitors to search for garnets among volcanic formations. "It is about 3 miles on a dirt road to the trailhead. As you are approaching the trailhead, there are spur roads with some good turnouts to park," advises Mike G. The area permits collection of loose garnets from the surface.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural spacing that creates a sense of seclusion. James L. from Ward Mountain Campground notes: "It has a bit of a view and you have to focus to hear any road sounds. It's rather quiet here and sparsely populated in mid-October. The site tables and fire pit appears to be new."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance level of facilities. "This campground included a bathroom, showers and a small shop with camping supplies. The campsite was padded with grass, which is much more comfortable than sleeping on dirt," writes Maggie S. about Ely KOA.
Free hot showers: Unlike many campgrounds that charge for showers, Diamond Victoria G. reports about Elk Flat Campground: "There were also clean toilets, sinks, and showers. The spots each had a picnic table and fire pit (for when there aren't fire restrictions). It was so quiet and the view of the valley was so calming."
Accessibility features: Some sites accommodate visitors with mobility needs. Leah L. describes Willow Creek Campground: "Two sites are on concrete slabs that are flat and relatively level. One is double wide. Both have concrete paths to the pit toilets. Plenty of area to maneuver inside sturdy toilet situated in the corner with grab bars is well stocked."
What you should know
Gets extremely cold at night: The high elevation means significant temperature drops after sunset, even in summer. Pack warm sleeping bags and extra layers. "This is a high desert campground, it was in the 80s during the day in late September and cooled off quickly at night," notes Connie C.
Limited water availability: Many campgrounds have seasonal or unreliable water sources. "At this time, the area lacks culinary water, hence the one-star deduction. RV dumps located in Ely at gas stations," reports James J. from Ward Mountain Campground (Murray Summit).
Dirt road access: Several camping areas require travel on unpaved roads. "About 6 miles off the main highway on a good road. Lake is not much, but the area is beautiful. Lots of hiking in area. No hookups but there are flush toilets and showers," explains Rich J. about Lake View Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Cell service varies widely across camping areas. Mike G. notes about Garnet Hill Camp: "ATT cell coverage was decent," while Marty K. adds: "The area just after turning right off of the Pole Line Road has many camping spots but weak cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children should consider the Ely KOA for its recreational facilities. "This place is great it has a pool, playground, so many family activities, a big grass area for the tent campers which is super cool," writes Brittney C. The playground provides entertainment during downtime between other activities.
Educational opportunities: Ward Charcoal Ovens offers historical learning alongside camping. "Interesting history of the campground. Kilns are well preserved and accessible. The camping is close by," notes Rick P. A well-marked trail connects the campground to the historic structures.
Kid-friendly fishing: Young anglers can practice at Cave Lake with relatively easy access. "Easy assess to lake. Clean flush toilets with sink and showers," reports Lee's Freelance M. about Lake View Campground. The stocked lake increases chances of success for beginning fishers.
Temperature planning: Pack additional warm clothing for children even during summer months. Kelly P. explains about Ward Mountain Campground (Murray Summit): "With Las Vegas temps reaching 115, This is a beautiful respite with highs in the mid 80s. Well kept camp sites are also a welcome bonus."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "Very nice NPS campground. My 30' TT and 20' truck found ample back-in FF spaces. Mostly flat. Table, grill and prep counter in good shape. Space is composed of small rock," reports James J.
Dump station locations: Plan waste disposal in advance as many campgrounds lack on-site facilities. "They do have a charge but it's easy to get to and only costs 15$ if you want to dump and fill up fresh water as well," notes Brittney C. about Silver Sage Travel Center.
Size limitations: Several campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. Rich J. from Willow Creek explains: "Well maintained campground located near the Ward Oven historic site. Campsites are all level with shade canopies. Some pull thrus that can accommodate larger trailers. Road in is 6 miles of good gravel."
Dust concerns: Unpaved areas can create dust issues for RVs. Robert R. reports about Ely KOA: "Nice quiet park just outside Ely. As usual with KOA, it was bit on the pricey side. They could have used some dust control on the gravel roads as well."
