The Owyhee region offers RV camping opportunities along gravel and dirt roads through high desert terrain at elevations between 5,000-6,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, while winter brings snow and subfreezing conditions. Cell service remains spotty throughout most campgrounds, with connectivity primarily available at higher elevations or near the town of Owyhee.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Wilson Reservoir provides excellent bass fishing opportunities in a remote setting. "Great lake to catch some bass. There are about 20 campsites at the lake. Camping is $4 per night. Valut toilet and hand pump available," notes Miles G. about Wilson Reservoir.
Hiking trails: Sawmill Campground offers access to moderate difficulty trails suitable for day hikes. "The hike at sawmill was great. Not too hard. We made it to a peak. Seen horse's, lizards rabbits, and preying mantis," reports Gin C. about Sawmill.
Stargazing: The remote location far from light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "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," writes Allison W. about North Wildhorse Campground.
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Many campsites feature sheltered tables that provide protection from sun and rain. "Clean sites. Covered picnic tables. BBQ and fire pits," notes DL M. about Wild Horse State Recreation Area.
Shade availability: Big Bend Campground offers natural shade from trees, providing relief during hot summer days. "Big bend campground is a nice little oasis in the high desert. Very scenic camp sites and cooler than the surrounding area," shares John H. about Big Bend.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently report sightings of various desert and mountain wildlife throughout the region. "We caught some sprinkles, which was awesome to escape the Las Vegas heat. We made it to a peak. Seen horse's, lizards rabbits, and preying mantis," reports Gin C. about Sawmill Campground.
What you should know
Cricket infestations: Some campgrounds experience significant cricket problems during certain seasons. "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.
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering pumps while others require bringing your own supply. "Water hydrants throughout but not charged, no water available. Haul out your own trash and waste water," notes John H. about Big Bend Campground.
Limited services: The remote location means visitors should arrive prepared with necessary supplies. "The nearest town with services is Owyhee, gas and small grocery store, about 35 miles to the north. There was no cell service in the campground, but we found it on our hike up the mountain!" shares Shari G. about Wild Horse State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Pinecone Campground provides a central location for exploring multiple recreation areas. "The Pinecone Campground is an awesome spot to spread out and see the surrounding area," recommends Jake C. about Pinecone Campground.
Site selection: Choosing sites further from access roads can provide more privacy and quiet. "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," advises a camper about Big Bend Campground.
Weather preparation: Pack for significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even during summer months. "We caught some sprinkles, which was awesome to escape the Las Vegas heat," mentions Gin C. about camping at Sawmill.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to most RV campgrounds near Owyhee require careful driving. "It is all dirt roads. I had to change a tire on a soft dirt road, it was almost impossible," cautions Gin C. about the route to Sawmill Campground.
Site maintenance: RV sites at some campgrounds receive regular attention from hosts. "Very clean sites, I watched the camp host pull in right after someone left and make sure it was clean and the sand was raked for the next guest," notes John H. about Wild Horse State Recreation Area.
Generator noise: Be prepared for generator sounds at more popular campgrounds. "Popular campground, stayed full and people do like their generators which we did here a lot of," mentions John H. about North Wildhorse Campground.
