Best Camping near Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park is home to ancient pine groves and some of the best camping in the state. Located in Nevada near the Utah border, you'll be able to see bighorn sheep and explore the Snake Mountains. Baker, NV, is only a few miles away and offers plenty of supplies for campers and RVs. Choose a campsite near Lehman Caves and spend the day exploring the limestone caverns. Campgrounds near the pine forests are ideal for exploring the park and viewing wildlife, or you can find a spot on the river for a day of fishing. Camping near Great Basin National Park will give you a chance to study the brilliant night sky away from city lights.

Best Camping Sites Near Great Basin National Park, NV (54)

    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    1. Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    27 Reviews
    93 Photos
    188 Saves
    Baker, Nevada

    Overview

    Whether you prefer the rich smell of summer mahogany riding air currents blended with the vanilla of ponderosa pine, or the sound of a clear mountain stream babbling beneath a symphony of swaying white fir, you won't regret your stay at Upper Lehman Campground. At 7500 feet in elevation and three miles up the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive a stay at Upper Lehman puts you within a ten minute drive of Lehman Caves and just a brief cruise from high alpine trails that will take you into the heart of the Snake Range. A stroll across the grounds may present you with mule deer or turkey, while a step out onto the viewing platform over Lehman Creek could offer a glimpse of brook trout moving gracefully through a liquid stage.

    Recreation

    For guests at Upper Lehman Campground a number of recreational options present themselves. The jaw-dropping Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive runs right past the campground entrance, offering 12 miles of spectacular mountain and valley views while transporting you to near tree line at about 10,000 feet in elevation. From there a roundtrip trail walk of just under three miles will leave you with memories of iconic bristlecone pines, trees which can endure for over 4000 years, and stand for thousands after that. Another short stroll from the end of the Scenic Drive highlights Stella and Theresa Lakes, both fish free because they freeze solid during the winter months, but begging for a sunset photograph with colossal Wheeler Peak looming in the background. If a challenge is beckoning, you'll find ample beyond the Summit Trailhead. Beginning at mile 11 of the Scenic Drive the Summit Trail will launch you on an eight-mile, day-long endeavor to the top of Wheeler Peak, monarch of the Snake Range, where you may ponder the desperate lives of bristlecones, limber pines and Engelman Spruce gracing the rocky moraine below the summit. Renown Lehman Caves is just a 10-minute drive from your campsite (You'll want to make a tour reservation before you arrive.) along with the remote solitude of the less-travelled trails of the Baker Creek. The Snake Creek and Strawberry Creek Roads are a bit more distant, but worth the drive. Fishing in the park is legal with a Nevada state fishing license, but access is challenging in the small brushy park streams so consider a day-long excursion to Baker Lake. The experience includes a twelve-mile roundtrip hike to over 10,000 ft, but the trout fishing is fine and a more majestic venue could barely be imagined. Stop by one of the park visitor centers for regulations, and please treat the delicate alpine environtment of Baker Lake with respect. During the summer months beneath the uniquely black night skies of Great Basin National Park astronomy programs with park rangers draw large crowds to the Lehman Cave Visitor Center, just four downhill driving miles away. Bring a chair and dress warm as even summer temperatures can drop dramatically in the Snake Range.

    Natural Features

    Resting at the base of a limestone ridge anchoring 12,771 foot Doso Doyabi to the floor of Snake Valley, the sites of Upper Lehman Campground are scattered amidst a diverse forest of pinyon and ponderosa pine along with juniper, white fir, aspen and fragrant mountain mahogany. Upper Lehman Creek with its resident trout (It's a small dynamic stream, difficult to fish.) tumbles among the sites blending with the voices of pine needles, turkey, and the crackle of campfire to create a classic soundscape, perfect for the camping experience. Shade is easy to come by during the summer months followed by the gilded quivering of aspen leaves in the fall.

    Nearby Attractions

    Don't forget, Great Basin National Park was forshadowed when Lehman Caves was annointed a National Monument in 1922. The cave and its underground wonders are just a few miles away behind the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Access is by tour only so be sure to book a reservation before you arrive, or stop by the visitor center to check on remaining availability.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (775) 234-7331.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    2. Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    25 Reviews
    142 Photos
    153 Saves
    Baker, Nevada

    Baker Creek Campground contains 37 campsites. All sites are available, when the campground is open (seasons permitting), on a first-come-first-served basis. Potable water is not available.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park

    3. Lower Lehman Campground — Great Basin National Park

    14 Reviews
    5 Photos
    1 Save
    Baker, Nevada

    Overview

    Among the lush green vegetation which hugs Lehman Creek, you'll secure your tent or park your rv within earshot of clear mountain water which has tumbled 3000 vertical feet from the lakes and snowfields of the high Snake Range. Naturally landscaped with red-barked water birch, aspen and white fir a stroll through this sky island ecosystem provides for great bird-watching or a cooling dip in the stream while placing you just minutes from spectacular Lehman Caves. Be sure to make a reservation for a cave tour before you arrive in the park.

    Recreation

    For guests at Lower Lehman Campground a number of recreational options present themselves.____ The jaw-dropping Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive runs right past the campground entrance offering 12 miles of spectacular mountain and valley views while transporting you to near tree line at about 10,000 feet in elevation. From there a roundtrip trail walk of just under three miles will leave you with memories of iconic Bristlecone Pines which can endure for over 4000 years, and stand for thousands more after death.____ Another short stroll from the end of the Scenic Drive highlights Stella and Theresa Lakes, both fish free because they freeze solid during the winter months, but begging for a sunset photograph with colossal Wheeler Peak looming in the background.____ If a challenge is beckoning, you'll find ample beyond the Summit Trailhead. Beginning at mile 11 of the Scenic Drive the Summit Trail will launch you on an eight-mile, day-long endeavor to the roof of Wheeler Peak itself, where you may ponder the desperate lives of bristlecones, limber pines and Engelman Spruce gracing the rocky moraine below the summit.____ Renown Lehman Caves is just a 10-minute drive from your campsite at Lower Lehman (You'll want to make a tour reservation before you arrive.) along with the remote solitude of the less-travelled trails of the Baker Creek Road. The Snake Creek and Strawberry Creek Roads are both unique experiences, but a but more diatant.____ Fishing in the park is legal with a Nevada state fishing license, but access is challenging in the small brushy park streams, so consider a day-long excursion to Baker Lake. The experience includes a twelve-mile roundtrip hike to over 10,000 ft, but the trout fishing is fine and a more majestic venue could barely be imagined. Stop by one of the park's visitor centers for fishing regulations, and please treat the delicate alpine environment around Baker Lake with respect .__ During the summer months beneath the uniquely black night skies of Great Basin National Park astronomy programs with park rangers draw large crowds to the Lehman Cave Visitor Center, just three downhill driving miles away. Bring a chair and dress warm as even summer temperatures can drop dramatically in the Snake Range.

    Facilities

    For guests at Lower Lehman Campground a number of recreational options present themselves.____ The jaw-dropping Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive runs right past the campground entrance offering 12 miles of spectacular mountain and valley views while transporting you to near tree line at about 10,000 feet in elevation. From there a roundtrip trail walk of just under three miles will leave you with memories of iconic Bristlecone Pines which can endure for over 4000 years, and stand for thousands more after death.____ Another short stroll from the end of the Scenic Drive highlights Stella and Theresa Lakes, both fish free because they freeze solid during the winter months, but begging for a sunset photograph with colossal Wheeler Peak looming in the background.____ If a challenge is beckoning, you'll find ample beyond the Summit Trailhead. Beginning at mile 11 of the Scenic Drive the Summit Trail will launch you on an eight-mile, day-long endeavor to the roof of Wheeler Peak itself, where you may ponder the desperate lives of bristlecones, limber pines and Engelman Spruce gracing the rocky moraine below the summit.____ Renown Lehman Caves is just a 10-minute drive from your campsite at Lower Lehman (You'll want to make a tour reservation before you arrive.) along with the remote solitude of the less-travelled trails of the Baker Creek Road. The Snake Creek and Strawberry Creek Roads are both unique experiences, but a but more diatant.____ Fishing in the park is legal with a Nevada state fishing license, but access is challenging in the small brushy park streams, so consider a day-long excursion to Baker Lake. The experience includes a twelve-mile roundtrip hike to over 10,000 ft, but the trout fishing is fine and a more majestic venue could barely be imagined. Stop by one of the park's visitor centers for fishing regulations, and please treat the delicate alpine environment around Baker Lake with respect .__ During the summer months beneath the uniquely black night skies of Great Basin National Park astronomy programs with park rangers draw large crowds to the Lehman Cave Visitor Center, just three downhill driving miles away. Bring a chair and dress warm as even summer temperatures can drop dramatically in the Snake Range.

    Natural Features

    Lower Lehman Campgroup is strung out along the lush riparian area hugging Lehman Creek, a small vibrant stream which has babbled it's way for miles from the high country of the Snake Range, over half a vertical mile above. Most sites offer shade provided by white firs as well as juniper and pinyon pine. But at 7300 feet in elevation, uncomfortably hot days are rare.__ Staying here is a wonderfull opportunity to dip your feet into cool water while diving into your favorite novel. Look up ocassionally. The limestone ridge just to the south anchors 12,771-foot Doso Doyabi to the broad Snake Valley below and the evening lightshow performed amidst one of the darkest night skies in the Lower 48 will likely keep you up well beyond your usual bedtime. If not, make sure that it draws you out.

    Nearby Attractions

    Don't forget, Great Basin National Park was forshadowed when Lehman Caves was annointed a National Monument in 1922. The cave and its underground wonders are just a few miles away behind the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Access is by tour only, so be sure to book a reservation before you arrive, or stop by the visitor center to check on remaining availability.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park

    6. Wheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park

    9 Reviews
    35 Photos
    138 Saves
    Baker, Nevada

    Overview

    A stay at the Wheeler Peak Campground is a genuinely memorable experience. Shadowed beneath the hulking cliffs of Wheeler Peak and Doso Doyabi, a pair of Nevadas true alpine monarchs, the views and campsites hover among the clouds. At nearly 10,000 feet in elevation your neighbors are Engelman spruce, mule deer and green meadows; your common distractions tumbling brooks and shimmering aspen leaves. A mile and a half up the trail will place you in the midst of the Wheeler Peak Bristlecone Grove, among trees so ancient that some have absorbed the fanciful hues of over a million sunsets. Take elevation and weather into account before you set out on your hike. Neither towing nor towed vehicles exceeding 24 feet in length are accommodated along the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive or at Wheeler Peak Campground.

    Recreation

    The drive alone is worth the price of admission, as they say, even though there is no entrance fee at this National Park. The 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive sweeps you over half a vertical mile to the Wheeler Peak Campground, just beneath what may be the most picturesque mountain in Nevada. Take in the view at Mather Overlook along the way. You cant miss it. While the Wheeler Peak Campground is the most distant campground from the surreal Lehman Caves (a 30-minute drive down the mountain) it more than makes up for it in hiking opportunities. Two of the parks most sought-after hikes, the Bristlecone Trail and Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, begin just outside of the campground entrance. The fully accessible .4 mile-long Sky Isalnd Nature Trail also presents a peaceful alternative. Beyond walking, the soundscapes and view-surfing are perfect for lounging, reading or catching up on some sleep after a long drive. Oh, and the caves are just 30 minutes away. If you prefer some less-traveled roads, consider a drive down the Snake Creek (no rvs or trailers) or Baker Creek Roads for such hiking destinations as Baker Lake or Johnson Lake. From the end of these maintained dirt roads, all trails lead to solitude. But be back at your campsite before sunset if you want to enjoy the dusk light show as the sun ignites the towering stone walls of Doso Doyabi, merging slowly into a sky so black that the stars pop in ways you may never have imagined possible. Be sure to make reservations before you arrive, for both the campground and the caves.

    Natural Features

    Views of some of Nevadas most picturesque mountains are abundant and never more than a few steps away from your campsite, if that. Bolstered by permanent snow and icefields of the Wheeler Peak cirque the spring serenading you just to the south has cascaded through ancient quartzite which makes up the towering cathedrals above. Stretched out among alpine meadows ringed within a dense forest of Engleman spruce, the Wheeler Peak Campground provides shade at nearly every site while a quick stroll will often reveal mule deer, turkey, or in the autumn weeks the lively orange and gold of shimmering aspen.

    Nearby Attractions

    Don't forget, Great Basin National Park was forshadowed when Lehman Caves was annointed a National Monument in 1922. The cave and its underground wonders are just thirty minutes away behind the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Access is by tour only so be sure to book a reservation before you arrive, or stop by the visitor center to check on remaining availability.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park

    7. Grey Cliffs Campground — Great Basin National Park

    7 Reviews
    55 Photos
    50 Saves
    Baker, Nevada

    Overview

    For visitors to Great Basin National Park, Grey Cliffs Campground is an ideal place to setup and start exploring. Experience the solitude of the desert, the smell of sagebrush after a thunderstorm, the darkest of night skies, and the beauty of Lehman Caves.

    Recreation

    The park offers a variety of trails with views of mountain peaks and alpine lake surrounded by beautiful cliffs at trail's end. Reserve a guided tour of Lehman Caves, take the scenic drive to the face of 13,063 foot Wheeler Peak or see 5,000 year old Bristlecone pine trees grow on rocky glacial moraines.

    Natural Features

    The campground is tucked beside limestone cliffs and set amongst pinion pines.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hike along the Baker Lake Trail, reserve a guided tour ofLehman Caves , take the scenic drive to the face of 13,063 foot Wheeler Peak or see 5,000 year old Bristlecone pine trees grow on rocky glacial moraines.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park

    9. Squirrel Springs Campsites — Great Basin National Park

    5 Reviews
    26 Photos
    40 Saves
    Baker, Nevada

    Formerly known as Snake Creek Road Primitive Campground.

    Campers must be in designated sites along these roads and backcountry camping regulations apply. Tents must be placed within 30 feet of the site's picnic table(s) and/or fire ring(s). Generators may only be used between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Checkout time is noon. The maximum continuous stay limit at any campsite is 14 days.

    Groups size is limited to 15 persons and/or 6 pack animals, and/or 6 vehicles per site. Larger groups must split into smaller groups within these limits, and must camp at separate sites. Larger groups may request an exception to these limits from the Superintendent under the terms of a Special Use Permit.

    Snake Creek may be closed due to snow in winter months, check our current conditions page for uptodate infomation. High clearance vehicles are recommended for these rough, dirt roads. RVs and trailers are not recommended at any time.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
Showing results 1-10 of 54 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Great Basin National Park

Recent Reviews in Great Basin National Park

217 Reviews of 54 Great Basin National Park Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Millard Desert Camp
    Nov. 2, 2024

    Millard Desert Camp

    Nice Sleep Over

    This was a convenient stop as we drove through. As others have said, you can hear HW 50, but (at least in Nov) there was very little traffic. The north side of the highway is a bit sandy and you might be cautious in 2wd cars. Nice views, pretty landscape and nothing much else.

  • Rick P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Upper Lehman Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    Spectacular Mountain park

    Majestic views and hiking available in all directions. Only stayed for a couple of nights and was nursing sprained ankle so not much hiking around during my stay. Very peaceful with clean composting toilets.

    Flowing creek behind my site that gurgled continuously (good thing). Clear skies and refreshing crisp air.

  • Rick P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek — Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Willow Creek — Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

    Peaceful renovated campground

    Interesting history of the campground. Kilns are well preserved and accessible. The camping is close by. No amenities, water, electricity but fairly clean composting toilets in camp area. A few trails at the kiln site and some hiking at the campground.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park

    Nice off beaten path in mtns.

    Lovely state park near Ely. Two campgrounds, but lake is emptied for maintenance so we didn't even check the other one out. Nice, mostly flat sites with quite a bit of juniper and some scrub pine in between so pretty private. Water taps and dump station. Flush toilets and free showers were nice. Very very quiet. Some trails fairly near by but we walked up a closed road for a bit. 

    Food aside: Had freeze-dried (Readywise) creamy pasta chicken with some added chicken and it was good. Very low FQ (fart quotient). Veggie chorizo scramble for breakfast- bit of a bite but hard to identify the chorizo in there; potatoes were good for heartiness.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Sacramento Pass BLM Campground

    FREE. NIce alternative to Great Basin NP which runs FULL

    On the whole, it's avg. as far as campgrounds go

    Great Basin was full, so went west on 6 about 8 miles and pulled into dispersed campground where there were some covered picnic tables at sites around a large central pond, following road up to equestrian corral and were several more sites. Stayed in#7 which was exposed, but the last one available so we took it. Free. Pit toilets are dirty but don't stink and trash has been emptied. Nice views to Wheeler Peak and out across UT

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Sacramento Pass BLM Campground

    Clean, good alternative to Great Basin which tends to run FULL

    FREE! On the whole, avg., 3 stars. Not many developed BLM sites around.

    Great Basin was full, so went west on 6 about 8 miles and pulled into dispersed campground where there were some covered picnic tables at sites around a large central pond, following road up to equestrian corral and were several more sites. Stayed in#7 which was exposed, but the last one available so we took it. Free. Pit toilets are dirty but don't stink and trash has been emptied. Nice views to Wheeler Peak and out across UT

  • DL M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek — Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Willow Creek — Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

    Beautiful new campground

    Nice spacing with trees between sites. Partial view. Couple of accessible sites. Garbage, picnic tables, fire ring, bbq, metal roof over tables, clean pit toilets male and female. Couple nice trails over by the historic wood burning ovens. Nice stream meadows to experience

  • DL M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 19631 Humboldt Forest Road Dispersed Campsite
    Sep. 21, 2024

    19631 Humboldt Forest Road Dispersed Campsite

    Big View from top of plain

    Sweeping view. Dispersed site adjacent to road 19631. Gulley behind with a road. No services. Great 5G AT&T. Rough hill up requires 4wd. Consistent shape. Close to junction down to gulley.

  • Maya G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    Great campsite

    Can’t have dogs on trails. As a ranger put it, dogs can go anywhere your car can. Campsite was great, pretty good privacy between them with the trees and everything. Bathrooms clean and there were multiple within walking distance of campsite.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    FCFS but popular!

    We pulled in at about 4:30 pm on a Monday evening after Labor Day. Tried Upper Lehman, it was full. Lower Lehman is closed. So we chanced Baker. Drove into the left loop which has some larger sites, luckily found one of the three left that suited us. Only trouble is that it was super hard to level our 21’ class B. It is quiet and not many people have fires so it is not smokey. We can’t hear the creek from here but have some nice open views. It was very dusty on the road in and in the campground, but a light evening rain probably tamped down the dust. Partner says lit toilets clean. I haven’t used it yet.

  • Amber The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Pit BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Gravel Pit BLM Dispersed Campsite

    Great Spot if you're going to Lehman Caves

    I enjoyed camping here, and I could see it being a great spot for a large group. As the description said, it's a working gravel pit. ... and the BLM got to work at 8am the morning after I arrived. So, be aware of that. There is no shoulder on the highway, so you can't really pull over to check road or flood conditions before pulling into the pit. In my case it was totally fine, clear and flat, but I didn't really enjoy going in blind.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass Recreation Area
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Sacramento Pass Recreation Area

    Awesome free sites near Great Bassin national park

    There is a lower and upper camp spots. The upper is about 1mi up a dirt road and has some shade trees but no ramadas. Both have vault toilets. Trash at lower. Horse corral at upper. No cell service except one bar at peak of hill anout 3/4 mi up from lower. Great views of wheeler peak, good hiking trails. Bring tp for the toilets, which were clean just no tp. And FREE 14 day limit. Hot but not unbearable in late july.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Free single NF-589 Dispersed Campsite
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Free single NF-589 Dispersed Campsite

    Beautiful single site on a rough dirt road

    First off I'll start by saying the "Get directions" location on this app is incorrect AND the GPS will take you down a private, gated, dirt road to get there. Also, there is only ONE campsite on this road.

    When you set your GPS for this location the GPS will take you down Lehman Caves Road which is also highway 488 into the national park. About halfway down this road from the small town of Baker, you will be told turn left on Rowland Ranch Road. IGNORE THIS. Rowland Ranch Road is a gated dirt road on private property. Instead continue down Lehman Caves Road until you get to a left on Baker Creek Road. I have attached a picture of detailed instructions of this ^ in my review.

    Baker Creek Road is a maintained road within the national park boundaries but is hard pack gravel with some washboards along it. Just a little ways down Baker Creek Road, you will come to NF-589. This road starts as a Y split. Your first left is a foot path only with no camping signs in it. Directly behind it is the vehicle accessible entrance. Enter at your own risk! This OHV road is narrow and rough with decent sized rocks. There are very little opportunities to turn around and I would strongly recommend AGAINST entering with a two-wheel drive vehicle or a trailer. With that being said, I managed to squeeze down this road with my stock 2015 Toyota Tacoma towing a 12x6 enclosed trailer. My truck made it no problem without 4wd but I was at the limit of capability with my trailers ground clearance, width, and length. I also pre-scouted the singular campsite on this road with my off-road motorcycle to make sure nobody was there first. The only way for me to turn around with my trailer on NF-589 was to use the campsite I stayed in. Just into the entrance of the road you'll come across a downed tree across the road. Don't worry, somebody remade the road to the left going around it so continue on. About halfway towards the campsite you'll come across a small picket sign on the left side of the road that marks the national park boundaries. The campsite is on your left roughly another 500ft after that, just barely outside the national park boundary. There are some good wash outs almost a foot deep and 6-8in stones in the road. My 6-ft wide trailer, which is slightly wider than my truck, was touching trees on both sides for most of the way down.

    I'll say it again, there is only one campsite here. The GPS coordinates do not bring you to a campsite so follow my instructions instead. This campsite is tight as you first turn in but opens up in the middle about 20ft into it. It also has some flat open areas for tents just a few feet away from main area. The site is not level and on the slope of a hill. There are also some large rocks similar in size to the ones in the trail on the way in all through the site. My 4in levelers for my rooftop tent were not tall enough to counter this slope. I ended up having to use large boulders and back over them to level my truck so I could sleep. There's nothing here but a fire ring, that includes bathrooms of any kind. You are just in the middle of the woods.

    I would love it if people would stop having glass bottle parties around campfires. When did ruining fragile campsites become the new cool? I always try to leave a free campsite better than I found it. I spend time cleaning up other people's trash, rebuilding fallen fireplaces, and sweeping off cement patios when present. I would greatly appreciate it if you would do the same for others.

    Anyways, I was here for 2 nights. The views are slightly blocked by the trees but the trees are fairly short. If you can get above the trees like I could by sitting on the roof of my trailer when the sun went down, the views are actually stunning at this campsite. This campsite is almost walking distance to the Lehman Caves and just a few minutes drive to most other attractions here like the scenic drive to the Alpine Lakes at the base of Wheeler Peak. The campsite is completely silent but there is a home about a half mile through the woods to the North towards Lehman Caves Road so please be respectful with music volume even though it may feel as though you are in the middle of nowhere.

  • Barb N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ely KOA
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Ely KOA

    Mt views, Teepees and covered wagons too

    Full hookups, clean and neat grounds with a beautiful view. SXS trails too

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Ward Mtn. Campground (murray Summit)

    Good spot to get out of the heat.

    This is my second stay this year. 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. Bring your own water. Super clean restrooms too.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old 93 BLM - Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Old 93 BLM - Dispersed Camping

    Well maintained

    Nice flat gravel camping spots. The road is not difficult at all. Small fee to camp but comes with a well maintained spot, fire pit, and grate for cooking.

    There was a nice creek behind us and lots of cows roaming.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park

    Rustic, a bit dusty, big trees and a super nice manager

    There were two of us in RVs. We stayed in spots 3 and 5.  We were able to park so that both of our RVs opened to make the area in-between us as the common area.  There are several big trees so we had some shade some of the time.  Rustic and a bit dusty, but for a base camp it fit the bill.   We were there in end of June 2024.  The weather was in the high 90s so we were so glad we had full hook-ups.  We did not use the bathrooms so I have no comments about them.  We did use the laundry room and they had several nice washing machines and dryers.   All spots were sold out on the weekend so make reservations early.  Jen, the manager, is super nice and friendly.  Note about Lehman Caves:  Lehman caves were amazing. Make sure you make reservations early and purchase your tickets for the tour of the caves before you get there.  Several people that just showed up were not able to get tickets to go inside Lehman Caves.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Elk Flat Campground — Cave Lake State Park

    Quiet and pretty campground

    This was a stopover on our trip along Highway 50 and I was very pleasantly surprised. A very quiet and beautifully maintained campground and they even had flush toilets and showers. Hidden gem for sure. Next time we will stay more than one night and try some hiking and visit the lake nearby. Again, this campground is very well-maintained. Clean campsites and bathrooms and beautiful views. We stayed in site number two, which was a very nice site. There was also some privacy with the native pines and junipers.

  • Skyler M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Schellraiser
    May. 28, 2024

    Schellraiser

    Great spot with very clean bathrooms

    Booked through Airbnb. Great place to stay with a variety of camping, tent, or tiny house options. We stayed in the camping area which offered a great sized gravel pad to setup our own tent, 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.

  • Shannon D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    May. 18, 2024

    Sacramento Pass BLM Campground

    Stealing campsites

    Free BLM numbered designated sites. We read other online reviews about people making a camp site wherever they want and this happened during our stay. We witnessed this (see the picture) happen to our neighbor. Thursday evening a single male with CA tags comes flying thru the campground and whipped into our neighbor's campsite and pulls right in front of their picnic table with his truck and 5th wheel trailer. Our neighbor came outside (as did several other neighbors wondering what this guy was doing) and confronts the guy. He asks him "you're not going to park there are you?!?". The guy tells him "yes, I need to watch TV" and proceeded to pull out his satellite dish and plop it down. Our neighbor says "this is my site and you're blocking my view." The guy told him he didn't care and set up anyways. Meanwhile there were 2 other RVs camping at the entrance waiting for a campsite to open up. In 7 years of RVing the entire country I have never witnessed such rude and entitled behavior before! The town of Ely for supplies had some of the rudest characters we've come across as well which was very surprising for a small town. This campground might have been a hidden gem at one time but with too much Internet publicity it's very busy now. Constant cars coming and going at all hours especially racing to the upper level of the campground. It probably would've been more peaceful sleeping at one of the highway pullouts.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ely KOA
    Mar. 14, 2024

    Ely KOA

    Clean and Gorgeous Trees Everywhere, Super Friendly Staff

    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.

    Overall, the place was clean and quiet, sites were level, and the front desk lady was so friendly! I only stopped here for one night, but would stop again if I was in the area.

    If they get the dust under control, I would have left 5 stars.

  • Peter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacramento Pass BLM Campground
    Nov. 26, 2023

    Sacramento Pass BLM Campground

    Perfect

    Needed a place to overnight in my RTT, and this worked out great. Pulled in, was the only one there so had my choice of spots. Had a restful night and hit the road in the morning. No fuss! Not sure if this is what I understand to be dispersed camping, as it’s a first come first served campground with tables, fire rings and pit toilets, just no water.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Garnet Hill Camp
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Garnet Hill Camp

    Great overnight!

    We loved this spot for an overnight. We drove our 25’ RV up and found a perfect spot. It snowed over night and we woke up to a gorgeous sunrise. We navigated the gravel road just fine, even with light snow.



Guide to Great Basin National Park

Camping near Great Basin National Park, Nevada, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by a creek or a more established campground with amenities, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the park. One camper mentioned, "The campground was closed in October but there's plenty of flat trailhead parking and a toilet. The aspens were gloriously yellow, especially in the dawn and dusk." This highlights the beautiful fall colors and easy access to trails.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A reviewer shared, "Saw a wild turkey rummaging in the bushes," while camping at Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
  • Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. One camper noted, "The night sky is brilliant on clear evenings," which is perfect for stargazing enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Privacy and Space: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Baker Creek Campground said, "Campsites are nicely spread apart and being in the park made for a silent night."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the scenic views. One review stated, "Absolutely gorgeous views of the Wheeler Peak range from the upper camping area," which can be found at Sacramento Pass Recreation Area.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds are a plus. A camper at Elk Flat Campground mentioned, "This was a stopover... a very quiet and beautifully maintained campground."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lower Lehman Campground, have no water available, so be sure to bring your own.
  • Reservation Requirements: Many sites are reservation-only, especially during peak season. A camper noted, "This campground is available by reservation only," which is important to keep in mind.
  • High Elevation: Campgrounds like Wheeler Peak Campground are at high elevations, so be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential altitude sickness.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. A reviewer at Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park mentioned, "There are several big trees so we had some shade some of the time."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One family shared, "We took her for a long walk in some of the snow-covered roads," which can be a fun way to explore.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper warned, "Beware of the mud! It’ll suck you in," when discussing the lake area.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have dirt roads that can be rough. A reviewer at Baker Creek Campground noted, "It was super hard to level our 21’ class B."
  • Know Your Size Limits: Certain campgrounds have restrictions on RV sizes. A camper mentioned, "RVs and Trailers over 24 feet are not allowed on Upper Loop," which is crucial for planning.
  • Bring Your Own Water: Many campgrounds do not have water available. A visitor at Grey Cliffs Campground advised, "Water can be obtained at the Visitor Center."

Camping near Great Basin National Park, Nevada, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions