Tent camping in Spring Creek, Nevada provides access to multiple wilderness areas in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with significant snowfall. Most dispersed sites in the area remain accessible from late spring through early fall, with seasonal road closures affecting winter access to higher elevation locations.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Angel Lake Picnic Site sits near multiple trailhead access points to the East Humboldt Wilderness where hikers can reach pristine alpine lakes. The site closes seasonally, with one reviewer noting "Road out to angel lake closed so was humboldt loop."
Hot spring soaking: The natural hot springs at 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping provide year-round soaking opportunities. A camper shared, "The hot spring water temp is perfect. There's plenty of room though when I went there were few people there."
Creek exploration: Bishop Creek runs through several camping areas and offers warm water swimming spots. According to one tent camper, "The creek water is warm from the hot spring and made for some fun exploring and even cooling off on a hot July day!"
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping offers minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. A camper noted, "fantastic Milky Way star gazing on a clear night."
Privacy and solitude: Weekday visits typically offer more seclusion at most tent sites in the area. One camper reported, "There were days when we had the spring all to ourselves, weekends got crowded."
Wildlife viewing: Free-range cattle are common throughout the region. A reviewer at East Humboldt mentioned, "There are free-roaming cows in the area, which added a unique touch—they kept to themselves, and we did the same."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access roads to many Spring Creek area camping spots require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping stated, "Epic spot. Got all the way to the hot spring with a non-modified 4WD w/ decent clearance and a skilled driver, but it is September so the water crossings were low."
Limited established sites: Many dispersed camping areas have very few developed sites. According to one reviewer, "It has a nice view, a river right by, is right off a paved road, only downside is there is only really one spot so not many people can camp here."
Water crossings: Some access roads require fording creeks that vary seasonally in depth. One tent camper explained, "The roads were rough, I got through with my Subaru Outback but it definitely hit the frame a couple of times. There were a couple creek crossings."
Tips for camping with families
Reservation planning: Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Terraces Picnic and Group Camping Site offers family-friendly options with more amenities than dispersed sites. A camper advised, "It isn't too far off the beaten path compared to other campgrounds in the area, so a good solution for a family reunion or something where different campers have different comfort levels."
Day use alternatives: For families with young children, consider day trips rather than overnight stays at remote hot springs. One visitor suggested, "Great day trip to the hot springs. Brought the dogs & let them run to have a blast. Went in the AM and barely had anyone around."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about keeping distance from wildlife and livestock. A camper warned, "The cows were a little scary and we saw a snake."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent camping areas near Spring Creek cannot accommodate large RVs. A visitor to East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping shared, "There's a big spot for a U Turn as well," which helps smaller vehicles navigate the limited space.
Alternative camping options: Consider camping at more accessible locations and making day trips to remote areas. One experienced camper suggested, "You can do the 'hike' that would essentially be a brisk walk" to reach hot springs if your vehicle cannot handle rough roads.
Seasonal timing: Fall visits often feature lower water at creek crossings. As one camper noted, "It is September so the water crossings were low," making access easier for vehicles with modest clearance.
