Primitive camping opportunities exist throughout the high desert terrain around Lund, Nevada, typically at elevations between 5,500-7,800 feet. The region features juniper and pine forests at higher elevations with stark desert landscapes in the valleys. Summer temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds typically reach only the mid-80s during daytime hours, while winter brings snow closure to many sites.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: Visit Hot Creek, approximately 7 miles down a well-maintained gravel road from Highway 318. Dave Deacon Campground provides convenient access to these natural features. "Hot springs and reservoirs nearby were lovely. Fishing is hard to do without a boat. Dacey Reservoir has large rocks damming one side that make an okay spot to cast from," explains Emily H.
Mountain biking: Access trails directly from Ward Mountain Campground for both beginner and intermediate riders. "There are trails right from the grounds for walking, biking, quading," notes Susan N., who stayed at a nearby campground. The area features both technical single-track and wider forest roads.
Rock collecting: Garnet Hill offers free public rockhounding opportunities with facilities at the top of the hill. "Beautiful high desert scenery. Lots of available dispersed spots for big groups/lots of people," reports Truly W., who visited Garnet Hill Camp and found the roads "sort of bumpy & sandy."
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites: The campgrounds around Lund provide separation between campers. "Nice spacing with trees between sites. Partial view. Couple of accessible sites. Garbage, picnic tables, fire ring, bbq, metal roof over tables," notes DL M. about Willow Creek Campground.
High elevation cooling: Summer visitors appreciate the temperature differential compared to lower elevations. "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," shares Kelly P. about Ward Mtn. Campground.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location away from urban light pollution provides exceptional night sky viewing. "Night sky is perfect for stargazing. High elevation can be a problem but worth it if you can handle it," writes Patricia N. about her experience at Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
What you should know
Water limitations: Many dispersed sites lack water, and even established campgrounds may have seasonal or maintenance issues. "There's water available, but when I was there they had just turned it on and it has not been tested yet to make sure it was safe to drink," explains Heather G. about Willow Creek Campground.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving or specific vehicle capabilities. "About 3 miles on a dirt road to the trailhead. As you are approaching the trailhead, there are spur roads with some good turnouts to park," reports Mike G. about dispersed camping options. Several reviewers mention unpaved roads to many sites.
Insect awareness: Prepare for seasonal mosquitoes, particularly around water sources. "Mosquitoes are insane. Even when you bathe in bug spray, won't do anything," warns Randy L. about one camping area. Bug activity tends to increase at dawn and dusk during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with shade structures: Look for sites with built-in sun protection for children. "Sites have shade from trees and picnic table covers. Vault toilets are very clean," notes Heather G. The shade structures are particularly valuable during midday summer heat.
Pet friendly options: Most campgrounds around Lund welcome dogs with reasonable space between sites. "Family fun. Horse trails, bike trails, bike trails... Nice spot for a few days and close to a small town (Ely)," reports Sean P. about Ward Mountain Campground, which provides both recreation and pet exercise opportunities.
Available facilities: Check which amenities each site offers before arriving. "This campground included a bathroom, showers and a small shop with camping supplies. The campsite was padded with grass, which is much more comfortable than sleeping on dirt," shares Maggie S. about camping facilities in the area.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven parking areas at some sites. "One issue to note is that most of parking pads are not very level (to help with snow melt) in the upper campground, so it made it quite challenging to level our little camper," explains Shari G.
Full-service options: For those requiring hookups, limited options exist. "T-Mobile's signal was good," reports James J. about Murray Summit, noting the campground has "Very nice NPS campground. My 30' TT and 20' truck found ample back-in FF spaces. Mostly flat."
Dump station availability: Plan waste management carefully as facilities are limited. "If you need to stop just to empty your RV 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," explains Brittney C. about Silver Sage Travel Center, which also offers propane and supplies.
