Tent camping near Owyhee, Nevada presents opportunities for remote wilderness exploration in high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 5,400 to 7,600 feet. Located in northeastern Nevada, the region experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 45°F. Winter comes early to this area, with first snows often appearing by early October and access becoming restricted through late spring.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: Jarbidge River and its tributaries offer secluded fishing spots where campers can catch native trout. According to one visitor at Big Cottonwood Campground, this area has "excellent privacy" with "perfect access to the beautiful flowing river."
Wildlife photography: The remote setting creates opportunities to spot deer, elk, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat. A camper at Juniper Grove Campground noted the "lovely creek with accessible pools, tucked up against a rock wall," providing ideal spots for wildlife observation.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple unmarked paths lead into the wilderness from established campsites. Camp Draw Trailhead serves as "a free and easy place to kick off into the Jarbridge Wilderness Area," though visitors should note there are "no amenities" beyond "vault toilets and packed dirt parking areas."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many sites offer direct water access for ambient sound and cooling effects. A visitor to Lower Bluster Campground appreciated its "three creek-side campsites, all on the water and very private," which provide natural barriers between camping spots.
Low visitation rates: Even during peak summer months, campers report minimal crowding throughout the region. One reviewer at Wildhorse Crossing Campground found it to be "a nice, little oasis in a desolate area" with "a little bit of grass at each camp site for tents."
Scenic drives: The journey to campsites offers remarkable views across high desert landscapes. A visitor to Upper Bluster Campground remarked on the "fantastic area" with its "excellent quality gravel road, crazy rock formations, pretty trees and crystal clear and accessible creek."
What you should know
Water planning: No potable water exists at any campsite in the region. Juniper Grove campers note "no water, no data access" despite the site having "four campsites and fire pits, a pit toilet, a lovely creek with accessible pools."
Weather variability: Summer thunderstorms develop quickly, and temperature drops at night can be severe. At Jack Creek, one camper warned of "mosquitoes, mosquitoes, mosquitoes" and noted the primitive conditions with only a "vault toilet outhouse."
Road conditions: Most access routes require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. A visitor to Pine Creek Campground advised: "Go slow on 4 ply, 10 ply greatly preferred on these dirt roads" and reminded that "it's 60 miles one way to town."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds with vault toilets for easier family camping. At Big Cottonwood Campground, a camper mentioned that "just a few spots that are almost next to each other" but when solo "it was fine" in this "peaceful setting next to the river."
Activity planning: Bring all entertainment as there are no developed recreation facilities. Near Jarbidge, one visitor noted options for "awesome hiking & horseback riding - some of the best in the country" despite the primitive conditions.
Safety preparations: Pack first aid supplies and emergency equipment as help is distant. A camper at Bonanza Gulch emphasized that "no cell signal at all anywhere near" with "the nearest reliable cell signal to the east is 35 miles east of Murphy Hot Springs."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most areas accommodate only smaller RVs under 25 feet. At Juniper Grove, a visitor observed the campground has "four campsites" that are accessible but cautioned that there are "no services anywhere near."
Generator use: No specific rules exist, but the remote nature suggests considerate usage. One RVer noted that throughout the Jarbidge area, campsites are "all very clean" despite the remote location.
Winter closures: Snow blocks access to most RV-accessible sites from November through April. A camper at Wildhorse Crossing found "the campground itself is surprisingly very clean" but warned others to "watch out for cattle as you drive to this campground!"
