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Best Dispersed Camping near Ruby Valley, NV

8 Reviews

Dispersed camping is available in two key areas near Ruby Valley, Nevada. Camp Lamoille offers several free primitive sites along Forest Service Road 660 before reaching the paid campground. These sites feature good spacing for privacy and easy access to Lamoille Creek for water. The main campground operates seasonally from May to September, but the dispersed sites remain accessible year-round, weather permitting.

Access to the best camping spots often requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles, particularly for reaching secluded creek-side locations. A camper noted, "There are a few easy to get to spots off of FS Rd 660, but if you keep going, the last two spots (high clearance required) are right next to the creek." Ruby Lake Dispersed area provides additional options with vault toilets but prohibits fires, alcohol, and pets. Winter access can be challenging, as snow may render roads impassable even with 4WD capability. The area attracts visitors with its mountain views, wildflowers, and creek access.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ruby Valley, Nevada (2)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Ruby Valley, NV

6 Photos of 2 Ruby Valley Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ruby Valley, NV

8 Reviews of 2 Ruby Valley Campgrounds

  • Cheryl M.
    Nov. 29, 2021

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Sites Before Campground

    Official campground is only open May-September. As noted by others there are a few dispersed sites off the entrance road to the official site. Views are stunning but most of the better sites are high clearance vehicle access only, with few turn around locations. Highway noise isn’t bad off hours, 1 bar ATT, none with Verizon. WeBoost helps.

  • C
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    High clearance for some great spots!

    Much like the other reviews there are a few easy to get to spots off of FS Rd 660. After turning right onto the FS gravel road you can take a left or right to dispersed camping spots. If you continue straight you end up at a private campground, but plenty of space to turn around. We turned right off of the FS road, there’s revel spots easily assessable via car, we went further down, rock crawling, high clearance required, and found the perfect spot nestled in the trees about 10ft from Lamoille Creek. Spent 4 days there and only had two other veichles attempt to get further down. If you turn left off of FS 660, there are about 4 spots easily assessable, but if you keep going the last two spots (high clearance required) are right next to the creek, one with shade, one not so much

  • Matt G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Lamoille dispersed

    The main paid camp ground was closed. Just took a right and was back in the wilderness with mountains all around. Many dispersed camping sites but probably need 4x4 with elevation to get to the best.

  • Colt H.
    Oct. 10, 2021

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    PLENTY OF DISPERSED CAMPING SITES

    Several dispersed camping sites before you get to the actual campground. Good spacing on the sites for privacy. Easy access to the creek for clean fresh water. Beautiful views!

  • Ana P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 17, 2023

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Road impassable

    We went to have a looks and less than a mile in the road was covered by several feet of snow. We have a 4wd and I couldn't have gotten through without damage.

  • Cindy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2018

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Crisp mountain fresh air,beautiful scenery

    I live close by, but love to go out and spend time traveling up here and just enjoying the scenery. The wildflowers are fabulous and there are just so many of them. I really enjoy looking over the beaver dams along the creeks. The mountains are great for hikes,I just have yet to do it due to bad ankles from broken ankles, but; have had friends tell me they enjoy it.

  • Stephani W.
    Jun. 7, 2019

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Day use picnic area

    This is a beautiful day use Picnic area ((Power house for groups and single picnics) on the banks of Spring Creek. They have great views of the Creek very nice clean restrooms and the host Dale is the best.

Guide to Ruby Valley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ruby Valley, Nevada, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and access to fresh water, these locations offer a perfect escape for outdoor lovers.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • For breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, check out Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping, where you can find several sites nestled among the trees and close to Lamoille Creek.

Adventure Activities While Free Camping Near Ruby Valley

  • If you're looking for a bit of adventure, the high-clearance vehicle access at Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping allows you to explore rock crawling trails and discover hidden spots along the creek.

Nature Lovers Should Check Out Ruby Lake Dispersed

  • For those who appreciate wildlife and tranquil waters, Ruby Lake Dispersed offers a unique experience, although it lacks some amenities, making it a true back-to-nature destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping in Ruby Valley?

Dispersed camping in Ruby Valley generally follows standard Forest Service regulations. No specific permits are required for dispersed camping, but campers should practice Leave No Trace principles. Ruby Lake Dispersed and other dispersed areas in Ruby Valley typically allow up to 14 consecutive days of camping. Some areas may have seasonal closures or restrictions, particularly during high fire danger periods or winter months. Campfires might require permits during dry seasons, so check with the local ranger district before your trip. Always pack out all trash, camp at least 100 feet from water sources, and use existing fire rings when possible. Verify current regulations with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest office as rules may change seasonally.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Ruby Mountains?

The best dispersed camping spots in the Ruby Mountains can be found off Forest Service Road 660 near Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping. Several dispersed sites are available just before reaching the official campground, with options both to the left and right after turning onto the gravel road. The most scenic spots with stunning mountain views require high-clearance 4x4 vehicles due to elevation gain and limited turnaround locations. Many sites offer good spacing for privacy and beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. The higher elevation sites provide the most impressive vistas but are more challenging to access, especially during spring when snow can block access even to 4WD vehicles.

What amenities or facilities are available for dispersed camping in Ruby Mountains?

Dispersed camping in the Ruby Mountains offers minimal amenities by nature. Access to natural water sources is a highlight, with several sites near Lamoille Creek providing fresh creek water (which should be filtered or treated before use). Unlike the developed areas such as the Powerhouse picnic area which has clean restrooms, dispersed sites have no toilet facilities, potable water, or trash services. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared to pack out all waste. The surrounding area does offer scenic hiking trails and abundant wildflower viewing opportunities, particularly in spring. Cell service is limited or non-existent in most dispersed areas. For those seeking more amenities, the main Camp Lamoille campground (open May-September) provides more facilities, but the dispersed areas remain primitive.

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