Dispersed camping sites near Lamoille, Nevada offer access to the Ruby Mountains, which reach elevations of over 11,000 feet and are sometimes called the "Alps of Nevada." The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F, while winter brings several feet of snow that can make some access roads impassable. Most dispersed camping options are located at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet.
What to do
Fishing in local waters: South Fork Reservoir near Lamoille provides excellent fishing opportunities. At Jet Ski Beach — South Fork State Recreation Area, "the area offers opportunities for water sports of all kinds, hiking & mountain biking along many trails, or just sitting by the shore with a line in the water."
Wildlife viewing: The Lamoille area is rich with bird life, especially during migration seasons. As noted by one camper at South Fork, "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."
Explore Ruby Mountain trails: The Ruby Mountains feature extensive hiking networks suitable for various skill levels. At Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Terraces Picnic and Group Camping Site, "the area is gorgeous and there is so much to do here. It isn't too far off the beaten path compared to other campgrounds in the area, so a good solution for a family reunion."
What campers like
Aspen shade and privacy: The mature trees provide both aesthetics and functional shade. At Humboldt National Forest Thomas Canyon Campground, one camper noted "Nice quiet spot along the river, trees all around providing privacy and hiking for days. Do your homework if you have a larger rig."
Creek access: Many campers appreciate sites near moving water. Another camper mentioned, "We were in campsite 26 which backed right up to water. It was great! We had a beautiful view of the canyon valley and the stars at night were perfect."
Spacious sites: Most established campgrounds provide adequate space between campsites. As one reviewer commented, "There is a lot of privacy between sites, easy check in. There are not showers even if in the description in the app it says that they have, I'll recommend to bring your own firewood because they didn't have any for selling when we went there."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Winter access can be challenging or impossible in some locations. One visitor to Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping noted, "We went to have a looks 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."
Vehicle requirements: Many of the best dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. According to one camper, "If you continue straight you end up at a private campground, but plenty of space to turn around. We turned right off of the FS road, there's revel spots easily assessable via car, we went further down, rock crawling, high clearance required."
Amenities vary significantly: Research facilities before arrival, especially during shoulder seasons. One camper observed, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Alternative lodging options: For families wanting more amenities, cabin options exist. Iron Horse RV Resort offers cabins that one visitor described as attractive: "We spent a night in hot August here in our Westfalia camping van. There are no tent sites but cabins and RV spots. Nice bathrooms, showers, a playroom with a ping pong table. The cabins looked attractive."
Recreation areas: Several locations offer developed recreation facilities. One camper reported, "This is a beautiful day use Picnic area (Power house for groups and single picnics) on the banks of Spring Creek. They have great views of the Creek very nice clean restrooms and the host Dale is the best."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies widely across the region. At Camp Lamoille, "Highway noise isn't bad off hours, 1 bar ATT, none with Verizon. WeBoost helps."
Tips from RVers
Overnight value spots: Budget-conscious RV travelers have options. Valley View RV Park offers economical stays: "Found this gem from a billboard that seemed too good to be true: $14/night for a spot with showers and laundry. We called to check it out and made a reservation. While it may not look like much, fourteen dollars was well worth the price."
Access limitations: Not all campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs. When considering pet friendly camping near Lamoille, Nevada, note campground limitations: "Nice quiet spot along the river, trees all around providing privacy and hiking for days. Do your homework if you have a larger rig."
Hookup availability: Full service sites are limited in the immediate Lamoille area. One RVer noted, "The spots have 30/50amp hookups, potable water, and sewer. The showers were hot with amazing pressure. The laundry facility was large and the washers/dryers worked well."
