Ely and Ruth, Nevada camping options range from established RV parks to remote tent sites at elevations from 6,000-7,500 feet. The high-desert climate brings cool nights year-round, with temperatures often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset even in summer months. The area's dark skies make it ideal for stargazing while camping near the Schell Creek and Egan mountain ranges.
What to do
Hiking trails from campground: At Baker Creek Campground, trails lead directly from your site into Great Basin National Park. "There are trails running off from the campground so no driving is necessary," notes camper Liv L. The campground sits alongside a year-round creek at higher elevation.
Wildlife viewing: Bird Creek Campground provides opportunities to spot local wildlife in a secluded setting. "Nice and quiet small campground. 9 sites and a group area. Seems a great place for mountain biking and hiking," reports Anne E. The campground stays cool at night with pleasant breezes during daytime.
Stargazing: The remote location near Ruth offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Stars, water sounds, fall colors, and wildlife all amazing!" writes Seren W. about Baker Creek. The minimal light pollution and higher elevation provide ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature water access. "Site 9 has a bridge across the creek to the site making it feel like a little private island," writes Hallie about Bird Creek. The sound of flowing water adds to the camping experience while providing a natural play area.
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites. At Timber Creek Campground, shannon R. found "Beautiful tailpipes and aspens with a flowing creek." Though privacy varies between campgrounds, many sites offer some separation from neighbors.
Clean facilities: Yurt camping near Ruth, Nevada often includes access to maintained restrooms. "Booked through Airbnb. Great place to stay with a variety of camping, tent, or tiny house options," notes Skyler M. about Schellraiser. "There is a bathroom/shower trailer that was very clean and being able to take a hot shower was nice."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds operate seasonally due to elevation. "The ranger trail is accessible from the campground and runs in either direction. This is not a loop! It connects to other campgrounds in Humboldt National Forest and spans more than 60 miles," explains Hallie about Bird Creek.
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful driving. "Road is a bit rough up, have the trailer secured," warns shannon R. about Timber Creek Campground. Many high-elevation sites require driving on unpaved roads.
Limited amenities: Prepare for basic facilities at most sites. "Vault toilets, no water during our stay (June '26). It sits above a mile elevation, so the temps were decent at night," reports Greebly M. about Baker Creek. Water availability varies between campgrounds and seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ely KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "This place is great it has a pool, playground, so many family activities, a big grass area for the tent campers which is super cool," writes Brittney C. The KOA provides structured activities for children.
Wildlife education: Local wildlife viewing creates learning opportunities. "Very nice campground with ample wild life to keep you entertained, turkeys roaming through camp, roosting in trees, and yellow bellied marmots eating the road for it's salt content," shares Michael J. about Baker Creek.
Temperature preparation: Pack layers for children due to significant temperature drops. "With the high elevation the nights did get chilly even though the days were warm," notes Hallie about the Bird Creek area. Temperature variations of 30+ degrees between day and night are common.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Valley View RV & Mobile Home Park offers long-term options. "We stayed 13 weeks in February--May 2018. They offer long term stays as well as daily travelers stopping for the evening. I believe the daily rate was around $35.00 and the monthly rate was $300 + electric," reports Karen M.
Hookup availability: Confirm utility connections before arrival. "It's a KOA Journey, so, close to a 'major' road (RT 93), which was very quiet despite proximity. The spaces are quite close together, so privacy is minimal," explains kristin S. about Ely KOA. Hookups vary significantly between campgrounds.
Pull-through access: Some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "We have been roaming around Nevada for a week now and this is the nicest campground we have stayed at. New bathrooms, clean, friendly and helpful staff and trees!" notes Susan N. about the Ely KOA, which has pull-through sites for easier RV parking.
