Big Creek Campground provides equestrian camping opportunities approximately 15 miles from Austin, Nevada. The campground sits at 7,510 feet elevation in the Toiyabe Range and offers access to multiple wilderness trails. While most established campgrounds near Round Mountain operate seasonally from May to November, camping conditions vary significantly depending on snowpack and weather patterns.
What to do
Wilderness hiking: From Columbine Campground, access trails leading into Arc Dome Wilderness. "A trailhead accessing the Arc Dome Wilderness is located at the campground," notes camper Bud M., who appreciates this "very quiet USFS campground adjacent to Stewart Creek."
Creek fishing: Try for trout in the streams running through the canyons. At Big Creek Campground, "There are trout in the creek and easily accessible depending on how much snow the mountain range got the winter before," according to graham K.
Off-road exploration: The network of trails provides opportunities for motorized recreation. Matt D. states that around Big Creek Campground there are "Tons of trails to explore on dirt bikes and quads. A lot of horse trails."
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Many campers appreciate waterfront camping spots. At Pine Creek Campground, Teri S. found "21 total sites, 14 creekside, 1 group site creekside." Paul G. notes that at Big Creek Campground, "Campsites backup to big creek which is nice to sit and listen to the sound of the water rushing."
Forest shade: The aspen groves provide natural cooling during summer months. Pine Creek Campground "is nestled in Quaking Aspen so there is plenty of shade," according to Alison, while Bud M. notes that at Columbine Campground, "Aspens and conifers provide ample shade in most sites."
Solitude: Weekday visits often result in nearly empty campgrounds. Alisen O. reports about Pine Creek: "I went mid-week in July and we had the campground almost completely to ourselves." Similarly, graham K. notes about Big Creek: "I have never seen more than one or two groups in the campground at one time if it's not hunting season."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to these remote campgrounds can be challenging. For Pine Creek Campground, Teri S. advises, "Last 2-3 miles in the road is rocky but passable in a car or RV if driven slowly." Regarding Big Creek, Alison cautions, "The road is narrow and it would be an issue to meet someone on the road pulling your RV."
Directions: Navigation apps may provide incorrect routes. Alisen O. recommends for Pine Creek: "It is tricky to get there - Google Maps will try to take you through private property. I recommend using the directions on the forest service website."
Site availability: Most horse campgrounds near Round Mountain, Nevada operate on a first-come basis with limited spaces. Alison notes about Pine Creek Campground: "Not a lot of sites so with a first come first serve policy you may find yourself without a spot if you don't get there ahead of the crowd."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play: Children enjoy exploring the waterways that run through these campgrounds. At Pine Creek Campground, "The stream adds idyllic camping ambiance," according to Alisen O.
