Dispersed camping opportunities near Wells, Nevada extend beyond the East Humboldt Wilderness into surrounding Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands. The region sits at elevations ranging from 5,600 feet in town to over 11,000 feet at Hole in the Mountain Peak, creating diverse camping conditions across relatively short distances. Many dispersed camping sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after spring runoff when dirt roads develop washouts and ruts.
What to do
Fishing at alpine lakes: Angel Lake Campground provides access to a stocked alpine lake at 8,400 feet elevation. "The lake is nice and easily accessible from campground. While shrubby aspens mean no shade, there is quite a bit of privacy," notes Mark M., who stayed in site 13.
Hot springs soaking: 12 Mile Hot Springs offers warm mineral pools along a scenic creek. "The hot spring water temp is perfect. There's plenty of room though when I went there were few people there," shares Christopher D., who visited this dispersed camping area located north of Wells.
Wildlife viewing: East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping offers opportunities to see various wildlife. "Free range cattle may show up randomly," reports Michael W., while other campers mention seeing wild turkeys and deer in the nearby Angel Creek area.
Creek exploration: Bishop Creek runs warm from nearby hot springs, creating unique outdoor experiences. "The creek water is warm from the hot spring and made for some fun exploring and even cooling off on a hot July day," explains Jason & Sara S., who camped along the creek near 12 Mile Hot Spring.
What campers like
Mountain escapes from summer heat: Angel Creek Campground provides a cool mountain retreat. "This is 6,200 foot elevation 8 miles outside Wells, Nevada. Peaceful camping in an aspen grove with fire pits, toilet, trash receptacle," writes one visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Dark night skies: East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping receives praise for its stargazing opportunities. "Fantastic Milky Way star gazing on a clear night," notes Grayce F., who enjoyed the solitude of this single dispersed site.
Shade in aspen groves: Campers value the natural shade at certain sites. "It's a windy road with a dead drop on the outside lane to a very high canyon with no guard rail... but it was SO worth it," writes Chani K. about Angel Lake Campground, noting the unique landscape features.
Unexpected wetland environments: Several camping areas feature surprising water features. "Great spot - fantastic views and a little wetland over the valley," reports Grayce F. about East Humboldt Wilderness. Similarly, Welcome Station RV Park visitors mention the "mini creek" that runs through the property.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to 12 Mile Hot Springs requires careful vehicle selection. "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," warns Sam M.
Seasonal closures affect higher elevation sites: Many mountain campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Angel Lake Campground typically operates from May through late September, while campgrounds at lower elevations may remain open later into fall.
Wind can be persistent: Several camping areas experience regular wind. The Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out dispersed site gets consistent mentions of wind. "It was windy for our entire say and the place we found this spot from said it was windy," notes Mark H.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Prepare accordingly when choosing dispersed camping options. "Zero amenities. This is just a great place to stop when passing through," explains Johny R. about Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out, adding that "Verizon signal ok. Could watch videos 2 or 3 bars."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for developed campgrounds with shade: Welcome Station RV Park offers family-friendly amenities not typically found in the region. "Grass everywhere! In a desert environment. Clean and functional showers and bathroom," reports Andrew N., noting that it's "very inexpensive to park on the grass and throw up a tent."
Consider noise factors: Highway and train sounds affect certain camping areas. "The traffic noise can be distracting at night for light sleepers but bring a set of ear plugs and get a restful night's sleep," advises Tom B. about Welcome Station RV Park.
Look for creek access: Children enjoy water features at certain campgrounds. "A mountain stream travels through the park with lovely footbridges and daffodils, tulips and various other flowers blooming," describes Brian S. about Welcome Station RV Park.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Cooled off at night and wind died down," notes Sue B. about Mountain Shadows RV Park, highlighting the typical evening pattern.
Tips from RVers
Consider pull-through sites for convenience: Angel Lake RV Park offers pull-through sites with full hookups. "All gravel sites. All pull thru sites. Tight spaces. Full hook ups. Right of I80. Self checkin. Clean, neat," summarizes Madeline S.
Use Wells as a basecamp: The town provides access to natural attractions while maintaining RV amenities. "It's kind of in between big sites along hwy 80, so it was more of a stopover. With that being said, I couldn't have felt more at home when I walked in," explains Josh W., noting that "it's a quick 20 min trip to Angel Lake which is a beautiful little reason to stop over."
Check road grades before heading to higher elevations: Mountain campgrounds have steep access roads. "Road in can be quite steep so just a few campers/trailers, no mega RVs," warns Mark M. about Angel Lake Campground, adding valuable information for RV drivers considering the mountain drive.
