Camping options near Owyhee, Nevada range from established recreation areas to primitive sites in this high desert region. Located at elevations exceeding 5,000 feet, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations between seasons with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Many campsites remain closed during winter months due to snow and challenging road conditions.
What to do
Fish for bass: Wild Horse Rec Area 2 offers direct water access for fishing enthusiasts. "Nice area close to the water and just off the side of the road. Lots of other RVs," notes camper Mk A.
Explore backcountry roads: The drive to Bonanza Gulch provides exceptional scenery. "The drive to this campsite is a mind blower. Excellent quality gravel road, crazy rock formations, pretty trees and crystal clear and accessible creek," reports Beth M.
Dark sky viewing: The remote location creates ideal conditions for stargazing. "To get here, you literally just get off the highway in Elko and drive 70 miles north. No cities for miles around. You can imagine the dark sky and how awe inspiring it is in the middle of the night," explains allison W. about camping near Wild Horse.
What campers like
Seasonal activities: North Wildhorse Campground provides year-round recreation options. "It's a bit tricky to access in the winter, but one of the best places in the state to try your hand at ice fishing. The surrounding countryside is also great for snowmobiling! In the summer, you are free to do anything from fishing to canoeing to paddle boarding to water skiing," writes allison W.
Basic but functional sites: The area offers simple amenities at reasonable prices. "Sites are basic but serviceable - about 20 sites with tables and fire rings. Plenty of trees to provide shade. There are vault toilets available and hand pumped water but no RV hookups. Super cheap at only $6 a night," notes allison W.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Owyhee: Sawmill Campground welcomes pets on trails. "The hike at sawmill was great. Not too hard. We made it to a peak. Seen horse's, lizards rabbits, and preying mantis," shares Gin C.
What you should know
Limited services: Prepare for minimal facilities and bring necessary supplies. "No amenities or water source. There is no fires allowed, stoves ok," cautions Gin C. about Sawmill Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Expect interactions with local fauna. "SO MANY CRICKETS! I paid before finding my campground and was unaware at how many crickets flooded the area. It looked like the ground was moving," warns Mk A. about North Wild Horse Recreation Area.
Remote location challenges: Pine Creek Campground requires careful preparation due to distance from services. "Primitive & hard to get to but worth it. Trees, privacy, year round (mostly) creek. Take everything you need & pack it out please. It's 60 miles one way to town," advises Rebecca E.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded sites: Several campgrounds offer natural protection from the intense sun. "Great camp site next to reservoir. Campsites have tables and fire rings. Vault toilets and hand pump is also available nearby," shares Miles G. about North Wild Horse Recreation Area.
Pack for temperature variations: Elevation creates significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We caught some sprinkles, which was awesome to escape the Las Vegas heat," notes Gin C. about the Sawmill area.
Consider hunting seasons: Big Bend can become busy during certain times. "It was hunting season and the road was busy, campers all over in the campground (they were very friendly and quiet) and hunters camped in the area but it was still peaceful," explains John H.
Tips from RVers
Road quality concerns: Access roads require appropriate vehicles. "Go slow on 4 ply, 10 ply greatly preferred on these dirt roads," recommends Rebecca E. about reaching Pine Creek.
Limited level sites: Seek out established campgrounds for easier setup. "I had to change a tire on a soft dirt road, it was almost impossible," warns Gin C. about camping near Sawmill.
Pet-friendly options near Owyhee: Several campgrounds accommodate four-legged companions. "I went there with my family and it was great. The only thing was if you do not go as far in you are bound to see more people," shares a camper about the dog-friendly Big Bend Campground.
