The Lamoille area sits at elevations between 5,900 and 8,800 feet in northeastern Nevada, creating a diverse camping environment with temperature variations of up to 30 degrees between day and night. Most dispersed camping sites in the Ruby Mountains require high-clearance vehicles, while established campgrounds typically operate from May through October due to seasonal snow closures. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with road access becoming limited after November.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: South Fork Reservoir provides excellent trout and bass fishing year-round. At East Campground — South Fork State Recreation Area, visitors can fish directly from shore. "Had a great time fishing the lake with my wife," notes MacKenzie D.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the Ruby Mountains, including routes with varying difficulties. Thomas Canyon Campground serves as a trailhead for several popular hikes. "Awesome hiking trails, beautiful views, spacious camp sites, clean bathrooms, nice camp host!" reports Ashleigh O.
Water activities: The reservoir offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and paddling during summer months. Jet Ski Beach — South Fork State Recreation Area provides designated launch areas. "The Jet Ski Beach is a great beach for swimming, launching canoes, kayaks, small fishing boats, or personal watercraft," explains Shari G.
What campers like
Mountain views: The dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks provides a scenic setting. "Beautiful views of the snow capped mountains hang in the distance. The site is super clean and has flushable toilets and a non-fee shower," describes Gina J. from East Campground.
Creek access: Many Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping sites offer direct creek access. "We turned right off of the FS road, there's several spots easily assessable via car, we went further down, rock crawling, high clearance required, and found the perfect spot nestled in the trees about 10ft from Lamoille Creek," explains Callie F.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound throughout the area. "Bird life is abundant in this area, with many species stopping along their migration route. We saw Loons, Dowitchers, White Pelicans, Coots and even the shy Hermit Thrush," one visitor noted at Jet Ski Beach.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Mountain weather changes rapidly year-round. "We went to have a look and less than a mile in the road was covered by several feet of snow. We have a 4wd and I couldn't have gotten through without damage," reports Ana P. about Camp Lamoille in March.
Site selection: Many dispersed sites require advance planning. "Official campground is only open May-September. As noted by others there are a few dispersed sites off the entrance road to the official site. Views are stunning but most of the better sites are high clearance vehicle access only, with few turn around locations," notes Cheryl M.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack services. "Several dispersed camping sites before you get to the actual campground. Good spacing on the sites for privacy. Easy access to the creek for clean fresh water," reports Colt H. about Humboldt National Forest Thomas Canyon Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Established campgrounds: For families with young children, developed sites offer more amenities. "We stopped at the South Fork Reservoir when passing through Elko. This was a great spot to relax from the long day on the road. Plenty of space for the kids to run around and bike around the campsite. Bathrooms were very clean and had hot showers," notes Eric from East Campground.
Temperature preparation: Pack clothing for all conditions. "Temps dropped to the mid-teens so be prepared if tent camping. There are horseshoe pits available and there is also an ADA compliant site also," advises Gina J.
Alternative accommodations: Cabin options provide comfort for families not equipped for tent camping. Sheep Camp in Ruby Valley offers unique lodging. "This is really a great experience, a warm experience staying in this room," reports one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited to specific campgrounds. "Well maintained sites. BBQ, and fire pits. Free showers, flush toilets, covered picnic tables. Nice large sites. Always a breeze. A camp host is present as well as ranger station 1/2 mile down the road. 25$ per night with full electric hookups," explains Kimberly Q. about East Campground.
Size limitations: Many Ruby Mountain campgrounds have restrictions. "Nice quiet spot along the river, trees all around providing privacy and hiking for days. Do your homework if you have a larger rig," advises Mike M. about Thomas Canyon Campground.
Urban alternatives: Iron Horse RV Resort in Elko provides full-service options when mountain campgrounds are closed. "A beautifully laid out campground with gravel sites and nice landscaping. It's nestled in the heart of Elko, Nevada, a short drive from the Ruby Mountains and a couple of smaller casinos and restaurants," notes Carlyne F.
