Dispersed camping opportunities near Ely, Nevada include options at Garnet Hill Camp, where travelers find secluded sites about 3 miles down an unpaved road. The area sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, creating a significant temperature differential between day and night across all seasons. Winter snow and summer thunderstorms can affect access to many camping locations in this high desert region.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Ward Mountain Campground offers trails suitable for various skill levels, connecting directly to the camping areas. As one visitor noted, "There are trails right from the grounds for walking, biking, quading" at Ely KOA.
Stargazing after dark: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create excellent night sky viewing conditions. "It was so quiet and the view of the valley was so calming. I needed an escape from city life and these grounds offered that," reported one camper at Elk Flat Campground.
Rockhounding opportunities: Garnet Hill lets visitors search for garnets in designated collection areas. "Beautiful high desert scenery. Lots of available dispersed spots for big groups/lots of people. Roads aren't too bad, sort of bumpy & sandy," mentioned a camper who heard coyotes at night.
Historic site exploration: Visit the preserved beehive-shaped structures at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park. "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."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Ward Charcoal Ovens receives praise for its upkeep. A visitor noted, "Well maintained campground located near the Ward Oven historic site. Campsites are all level with shade canopies. Picnic tables, and BBQ."
Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months. One camper shared, "This is my second stay this year. With Las Vegas temps reaching 115, This is a beautiful respite with highs in the mid 80s."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from crowds. A Ward Mountain visitor commented, "It's rather quiet here and sparsely populated in mid-October. The site tables and fire pit appears to be new. Bring your own water and other support needs."
Clean bathrooms: Schellraiser campers appreciate the facilities. "There is a bathroom/shower trailer that was very clean and being able to take a hot shower was nice. The host Brian was very nice."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds have seasonal or limited water access. "They had just turned it on for the year and had not tested it to see if it is drinkable," reported a Ward Charcoal Ovens visitor.
Cell service considerations: Coverage can be spotty but surprisingly good in certain areas. At Garnet Hill, a camper advised, "About one thousand feet before the top of Garnet Hill, at a 90 degrees right hand turn, there are a number of good, level spots with excellent cell service on T-Mobile."
High elevation effects: The 7,000+ foot elevation means rapid temperature changes. "It got pretty warm in the afternoon but the clouds and winds kept it bearable. Winds tended to come up from the valley."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. According to one visitor at Ward Mountain Campground, "Very nice NPS campground. My 30' TT and 20' truck found ample back-in FF spaces. Mostly flat."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At the KOA, "My daughter (8) loved the playground. We were only there for one night on our way to Utah."
Educational opportunities: Historic sites provide learning experiences. A visitor noted, "Interesting history of the campground. Kilns are well preserved and accessible. The camping is close by."
Accessible camping options: Valley View RV Park accommodates various needs. "It is right along US-93 N. We stayed 13 weeks in February--May 2018. They offer long term stays as well as daily travelers stopping for the evening."
Pet friendly camping considerations: When bringing dogs to camp near Ely, Nevada, many sites welcome pets but have specific areas for exercise. "Big trees for some shade which is always good. Close to the town and the ely airport. About 5 minute drive to the ely train station which is super neat."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Full service sites are available at select locations. One RVer at Silver Sage Travel Center stated, "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."
Site spacing and privacy: RV parks vary in how close sites are positioned. "Privacy is minimal, though everyone was very respectful and quiet during quiet hours. Nice spot for access to Great Basin NP."
Dump station locations: Plan your waste management in advance. "RV dumps located in Ely at gas stations. Some sites can be reserved. About an hour's drive to Great Basin N.P."
Level sites: Many campgrounds provide level parking for easier setup. "Nice level sites with shade from trees and picnic table covers. Vault toilets are very clean."
