Sacramento Pass Recreation Area provides equestrian camping near Ruth, Nevada, with two distinct camping zones. The equestrian section in the upper area accommodates horse trailers with access to the Lucky Boy and Sacramento Pass trails. Located approximately 8 miles west of Great Basin National Park along Highway 50, this free BLM campground sits at a higher elevation offering views across Utah and toward Wheeler Peak.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The Sacramento Pass trail system offers moderate hiking directly from the campground. "Took the ~3 mi Sac Pass Trail from the campground, it's not that well marked but we figured it out," notes Michele R. about Sacramento Pass Recreation Area.
Explore rock formations: Natural geological features provide climbing opportunities within the recreation area. "The rock formations here are super cool and my kids had a blast climbing on them," mentions Michele R.
Visit Great Basin National Park: The campground serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions. "About an hour's drive to Great Basin N.P.," reports James J. about Ward Mtn. Campground.
Fish the small pond: A stocked pond at the lower camping area provides fishing opportunities. "Very large areas with tables and shade no hookups but it had vault toilets and a small fishing pond. Trails were mapped out with a history lesson on the information board," says Jim M.
What campers like
Free camping with amenities: Campers appreciate the no-cost sites with established facilities. "Great FREE place to spend the night while traveling through," writes Laura M. about Sacramento Pass BLM Campground, adding "Covered picnic tables on cement slab with BBQ and there is also a fire pit. Pit Toilets and garbage dumpster are also on site."
Weather refuge: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. "With Las Vegas temps reaching 115, This is a beautiful respite with highs in the mid 80s," shares Kelly P. about Ward Mtn. Campground.
Cleanliness despite being free: Many users note the well-maintained conditions. "For this to be a free campground, it's really nice! Each site is an established site, with a covered picnic table & firepit. Each site is spaced out also. There's 2 bathrooms & a dumpster," reports Sarah M.
Alternative when Great Basin is full: The campground serves as overflow camping. "Great Basin was full, so went west on 6 about 8 miles and pulled into dispersed campground where there were some covered picnic tables at sites around a large central pond," explains Mark M.
What you should know
Varying site availability: The campground can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. "All spots were taken on a Wednesday night in May," reports Jessica L., adding "Super loud ATVs driving pass me at night. Found a 4wd spot tucked away in the back with an unofficial fire pit."
No running water: Campers must bring their own water supplies. "Make sure to bring your own toilet paper," advises Treavor U. about Sacramento Pass Recreation Area.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal in most areas. "AT&T coverage was poor, with 0 to 1 bar of 5GE and speeds of only 0.3 MB/s," reports Ray & Terri F. about Sacramento Pass BLM Campground.
Occasional rude behavior: During busy periods, campsite etiquette can be an issue. "We witnessed this happen to our neighbor. Thursday evening a single male with CA tags comes flying thru the campground and whipped into our neighbor's campsite and pulls right in front of their picnic table," shares Shannon D.
Tips for camping with families
Check out both camping areas: The lower and upper sections offer different experiences. "There is an upper and lower camp spots. The upper is about 1mi up a dirt road and has some shade trees but no ramadas," explains Mark F. from Cleve Creek Campground.
Consider seasonal timing: Summer temperatures vary by elevation. "Hot but not unbearable in late July," notes Mark F.
Look for secluded sites: Some areas provide more privacy than others. "When you pull in there are about 6 spots with shade, picnic tables, trash cans, toilets and firepits. If you take an immediate left when you pull in, go up to the equestrian campgrounds. We stayed at the one on the far left and it was secluded with a tent pad and firepit/table," recommends Kailey C.
Tips from RVers
Suitable for various RV sizes: The camping areas accommodate different vehicles. "My 30' TT and 20' truck found ample back-in FF spaces. Mostly flat," shares James J.
Upper area access: The road to upper horse camping sites requires careful driving. "We are full-timers in a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow. We stayed in the second site for one night in late May," reports Ray & Terri F., noting the campground's cleanliness and well-maintained condition.
Satellite options available: For those requiring connectivity, satellite service works well. "We had access all 3 western DISH satellites and Starlink had speeds were up to 11 MB/s," adds Ray & Terri F.
