Equestrian camping near Ruby Valley, Nevada offers accessible facilities for riders in high-desert terrain. Located at elevations between 5,900-6,200 feet, the region experiences significant temperature variations between seasons, with summer daytime temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows well below freezing. Several campgrounds provide accommodations specifically designed for travelers with horses, including adequate trailer parking and proximity to established riding trails.
What to do
Trail riding through Ruby Marshes: South Ruby Campground provides direct access to miles of high-desert trails suitable for horseback riding through the Ruby Marshes. According to Alison, the campground is "on the east side of the Ruby Mountains in the Ruby Marshes Area. Shade is provided by pinyon and juniper. Pit toilets, fire pits and picnic tables provided."
Wildlife observation: The Ruby Valley area offers excellent opportunities to view wild horses and other native wildlife. Nicole B. notes that South Ruby Campground allows visitors to be "in the middle of nowhere" where they "saw some wildlife along the road."
Hot spring soaking: Several hot springs dot the region surrounding South Ruby Campground, with water temperatures ranging from 95-111°F depending on location and season. Jason & Sara S. report, "the hot spring was around 111 degrees and we were there in July. it was hot, very hot during the day. the hot spring is so warm that we couldn't get in it until the sun went down!"
Creek exploration: The mountain streams provide refreshing opportunities for both horses and riders. Colt H. describes the areas near Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping as having "Easy access to the creek for clean fresh water. Beautiful views!"
What campers like
Remote location: The isolation of horse campgrounds near Ruby Valley appeals to those seeking solitude. Nicole B. describes South Ruby Campground as "Remote and awesome" and adds, "I found this camp ground on my way to Montana, just wanted to stop for a night and be in the middle of nowhere."
Site spacing: Dispersed camping areas provide good separation between campers for privacy. Colt H. notes that Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping has "Several dispersed camping sites before you get to the actual campground. Good spacing on the sites for privacy."
Natural surroundings: The native vegetation offers practical benefits for campers. Alison mentions that at South Ruby Campground, "Shade is provided by pinyon and juniper," which helps moderate temperatures during hot summer days.
Creek proximity: Callie F. describes finding "the perfect spot nestled in the trees about 10ft from Lamoille Creek" and notes that "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian camping areas may require appropriate vehicles. Cheryl M. states about Camp Lamoille, "most of the better sites are high clearance vehicle access only, with few turn around locations."
Seasonal limitations: Winter access is extremely limited due to snow accumulation. Ana P. warns, "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."
Insects: The presence of horses, both domestic and wild, attracts certain insects. Jason & Sara S. mention "horses in area, lots of horseflys" at South Ruby Campground.
Ground stability: Some areas near hot springs require caution. Jason & Sara S. advise, "watch you drive in, new springs are forming and some ground is SOFT!!!! be safe, have a spotter."
Tips for camping with families
Day-use alternatives: For families not ready to commit to overnight stays, day-use areas provide good options. Stephani W. describes a nearby "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."
Wildflower viewing: Seasonal wildflower displays add educational opportunities for children. Cindy W. notes, "The wildflowers are fabulous and there are just so many of them. I really enjoy looking over the beaver dams along the creeks."
Wildlife education: The presence of wild horses and beaver dams creates natural learning experiences. Cindy W. mentions enjoying "looking over the beaver dams along the creeks" near Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Campground seasonality: The official developed campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Cheryl M. notes that the "Official campground is only open May-September."
Connectivity: Cell service is limited throughout the area, affecting navigation and communications. Cheryl M. reports "1 bar ATT, none with Verizon. WeBoost helps."
Access for larger vehicles: Site access varies significantly throughout the region. Callie F. explains that near Camp Lamoille "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."
