Best Tent Camping near Lamoille, NV
The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest surrounding Lamoille, Nevada offers several tent camping options, with both established campgrounds and dispersed sites available throughout the region. Tent campers can choose between the Terraces Picnic and Group Camping Site, which operates seasonally from May 22 to September 27, or venture into more remote areas like the East Humboldt Wilderness for primitive tent camping. The 12 Mile Hot Springs area provides dispersed camping opportunities along Bishop Creek, where tent campers can set up within walking distance of natural hot springs. These backcountry tent sites require no reservations but may need permits in certain wilderness areas.
Road conditions vary significantly across these tent camping destinations, particularly for those seeking access to the more remote sites. The road to 12 Mile Hot Springs requires high-clearance vehicles, with many campers opting to park and walk in rather than risk vehicle damage on the deteriorating access road. According to reviews, sections of road are washed out with creek crossings that can be challenging even for 4WD vehicles. East Humboldt Wilderness dispersed camping offers easier access, with some sites accessible by standard passenger vehicles via short dirt roads. Most primitive tent sites lack amenities, though Terraces Campground provides potable water and vault toilets. Fire rings are available at some locations, but campers should bring all necessary supplies including water.
Early morning visits to tent sites near 12 Mile Hot Springs reveal minimal crowds, as one camper noted: "I was the only person parked overnight." Weekends tend to bring more day visitors, particularly to the hot springs areas. The East Humboldt Wilderness provides exceptional stargazing opportunities, with campers reporting "fantastic Milky Way star gazing on a clear night." Free-range cattle frequently roam near tent sites in this region, adding an unexpected element to the camping experience. Many tent campers choose to set up approximately a quarter-mile from the hot springs and make short walks to enjoy the warm waters. Walk-in tent sites offer greater seclusion, with several visitors mentioning they had entire areas to themselves during weekday stays.
