The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Wells, NV

38 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities around Wells, Nevada include several primitive areas with minimal or no facilities. Sites range from mountainside pull-offs to creek-adjacent spots on public lands. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages multiple areas including the 12 Mile Hot Springs dispersed camping area and East Humboldt Wilderness dispersed camping. Angel Lake Forest Service Road offers pull-out camping with mountain views, while Camp Lamoille provides dispersed options along Lamoille Creek. Additional BLM sites are accessible off Highway 93 North and Highway 51.

Roads accessing these areas frequently require high-clearance vehicles, with several reviews noting particularly challenging conditions at 12 Mile Hot Springs. The access road has been described as "horrific," "rough," and "genuinely scary at times especially if wet." Most dispersed sites lack amenities such as restrooms, potable water, or trash facilities. Camping is permitted on public lands for up to 14 days. Some areas allow fires in existing fire rings, though restrictions vary seasonally. Cell service varies by location, with some sites reporting good Verizon coverage.

The region features notable natural attractions alongside primitive camping. The 12 Mile Hot Springs area includes a natural hot spring described as "beautiful" and "worth going as far as you can down a very rough road." Camp Lamoille dispersed sites offer creek access and mountain views. East Humboldt Wilderness camping provides stargazing opportunities and wildlife viewing. Free-range cattle are common in several areas. "Great views, directions led me directly to the spot. Saw one car drive by the Main road during my stay. Very windy, recommend car camping." Weather conditions can be unpredictable, with wind being particularly common at the Angel Lake area.

Map showing campgrounds near Wells, NevadaExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wells, Nevada (6)

    1. 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Wells, NV
    9 miles
    Website

    "- there are signs about it being private property at the entrance so not sure exactly what’s going on there. We saw three other cars/trucks and decided to camp over night."

    "Went in the AM and barely had anyone around. That changed as we progressed into the afternoon (note this was on a Saturday).

    Know the road in is really bad so you’ll need a high clearance vehicle."

    2. East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Wells, NV
    7 miles

    "It’s pretty easy to find, even after dark, with just a short dirt road to get there. The area is clean and feels safe, with a good view of the surrounding landscape."

    "Gravel access road in, and it’s further than just a little pull off. Will mark this as a favorite anytime we come through."

    3. Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out

    6 Reviews
    Wells, NV
    5 miles

    "This is just a little side road to the paved Angel Lake Forest Service Road. Take the Wells NV Highway 80 off ramp (351)."

    "Saw one car drive by the Main road during my stay. Very windy, recommend car camping."

    4. Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Lamoille, NV
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 688-1500

    "As noted by others there are a few dispersed sites off the entrance road to the official site."

    "After turning right onto the FS gravel road you can take a left or right to dispersed camping spots. If you continue straight you end up at a private campground, but plenty of space to turn around."

    5. BLM off 93 North NV

    1 Review
    Wells, NV
    31 miles

    6. Hwy 51 Dispersed in Nevada

    Be the first to review!
    Elko, NV
    46 miles
Show More
Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Wells Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Wells, NV

13 Photos of 6 Wells Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Wells, NV

38 Reviews of 6 Wells Campgrounds

  • Cheryl M.
    Nov. 29, 2021

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Sites Before Campground

    Official campground is only open May-September. As noted by others there are a few dispersed sites off the entrance road to the official site. Views are stunning but most of the better sites are high clearance vehicle access only, with few turn around locations. Highway noise isn’t bad off hours, 1 bar ATT, none with Verizon. WeBoost helps.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out

    Angel Lake Forest Service Road Pull Out

    This is just a little side road to the paved Angel Lake Forest Service Road. Take the Wells NV Highway 80 off ramp (351). Go south - signs will point to Angel Lake, it is the turn right after the east bound off ramp from HW80. Drive 4.5 miles and there will be a pull out on your right. You will see a dirt road (more like two tire tracks up the hill before you. They will take you up on the rise over the road, with a great view of the Rubies. Flat space, 3 bars Verizon, nice view, quiet, windy and no amenities. The way the road is cut, you don’t really see cars. This time of year, little traffic on the road. It was windy for our entire say and the place we found this spot from said it was windy.

  • Tyler S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2023

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    Good place to camp using 144 4X4 sprinter with limited options around

    We had a nice stay with some pretty views. A couple comments.

    • there are signs about it being private property at the entrance so not sure exactly what’s going on there. We saw three other cars/trucks and decided to camp over night.
    • people comment about the road being rough. It was definitely rough but our 4x4 sprinter 144 got back there*.
    • road is washed out with about .8 miles to get back to the hot springs and unless you have a highly modified jeep or side by side, you aren’t getting all the way back.
    • woke up to cows all around us mooing which was pretty funny.
  • C
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

    High clearance for some great spots!

    Much like the other reviews there are a few easy to get to spots off of FS Rd 660. After turning right onto the FS gravel road you can take a left or right to dispersed camping spots. If you continue straight you end up at a private campground, but plenty of space to turn around. We turned right off of the FS road, 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 about 10ft from Lamoille Creek. Spent 4 days there and only had two other veichles attempt to get further down. 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, one with shade, one not so much

  • M
    Apr. 1, 2021

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    Fun Day Trip!

    Great day trip to the hot springs. Brought the dogs & let the run to have a blast. Went in the AM and barely had anyone around. That changed as we progressed into the afternoon (note this was on a Saturday).

    Know the road in is really bad so you’ll need a high clearance vehicle. Or you can do the “hike” that would essentially be a brisk walk.

  • Jon B.
    Jun. 30, 2021

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    Challenge to get there.

    High clearance vehicles only. We camped 1/2 mile before spring. NO camper trailers! No RVs! Road is just too bad.

  • Ariel & John W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2020

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    Rough road but worth it

    Free/dispersed only. The hot spring is amazing and worth going as far as you can down a very rough road. We camped right next to the warm creek, about a quarter mile before the hot spring and walked to the spring several times a day. There were days when we had the spring all to ourselves, weekends got crowded. Scenery is beautiful with the meandering warm creek and the mountains. Did we mention the roads were incredibly rough? Otherwise five stars.

  • JEFF F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2023

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    12 Mile Hot Spring is beautiful

    I arrived way after dark, it was late so I couldnt see anything. Got up the next morning and saw the creek, high rock walls. Took a hike and explored. I also took a bath in the hot springs. If you are in the area, this is a must stay at. You do however, need a high clearance vehicle. The road is pretty rough.

  • L
    Aug. 6, 2022

    12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot horrific road

    This spot is amazing! I’ve been coming for years. However the road has no maintenance and is genuinely scary at times especially if wet. The first time I came there was a truck abandoned bc it had fallen off the Cliff past the bridge. Spooky. This is not a road you can do in your big rig or Subaru (too low). Every time I’ve come back the road is significantly worse. The potholes are massive and shake my truck like nothing else. There are entire sections of road missing and washed out with giant gashes. The lower road is worse than MOST of the upper roads. However some upper roads are only for dirt bikes with no way to turn around. Did one in the rain in my truck earlier and was scared as hell. The water is warm and lovely it’s very relaxing. There’s only two sites near the hot springs the rest you have to hike in to get to the springs. Happy travels!

Guide to Wells

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Wells, Nevada, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and unique experiences, this area offers a perfect escape for those looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

  • This location is known for its natural hot springs, providing a relaxing soak after a day of adventure. You can find more details about it here.
  • The road leading to the springs can be challenging, with creek crossings that add to the adventure, making it ideal for those with a sense of exploration.
  • Visitors have reported enjoying the peacefulness of the area, often having the springs all to themselves, which enhances the overall experience.

Scenic views and tranquility at East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping

  • This spot is praised for its clean environment and stunning views, making it a great choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Check it out here.
  • The area is accessible via a short dirt road, making it easy to find even after dark, which is perfect for spontaneous trips.
  • Free-roaming cattle add a unique charm to the landscape, providing a true sense of the wild west while you camp.

Adventure awaits at Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping

  • Nestled near Lamoille Creek, this site offers a variety of spots, some requiring high clearance vehicles for access, making it ideal for those who enjoy off-roading. More information can be found here.
  • The area is known for its stunning views and privacy, allowing campers to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern life.
  • With easy access to fresh water from the creek, this location is perfect for those looking to enjoy a longer stay in a beautiful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wells, Nevada?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Wells, Nevada. 12 Mile Hot Springs Dispersed Camping offers free camping along a creek with access to natural hot springs, though you'll need a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the rough road. Another option is Angel Lake FS Road Pull Out, located about 4.5 miles up the Angel Lake Forest Service Road from Highway 80 (exit 351). Look for the pull-out on your right. The area provides a convenient spot for overnight stays with mountain views and is easily accessible from Wells.

Are there any seasonal restrictions for dispersed camping in Wells, Nevada?

Seasonal restrictions vary by location around Wells. Camp Lamoille-Dispersed Camping has noted restrictions, with the official campground only open from May through September, though some dispersed sites along the entrance road may be accessible year-round depending on conditions. East Humboldt Wilderness Dispersed Camping is generally accessible most of the year, but winter conditions can make access difficult. Always check current road conditions before heading out, especially during winter months when snow may block forest service roads at higher elevations around Wells.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Wells, NV?

Dispersed camping areas near Wells offer minimal to no amenities. BLM off 93 North NV provides quiet, scenic spots but no facilities - it's simply a place to pull over and camp. Similarly, along the gravel road, you can find nice spots to set up camp with views of the surrounding landscape. At other dispersed sites like Hwy 51 Dispersed, you'll need to be fully self-contained with your own water, toilet facilities, and waste disposal plan. There are no trash services, so pack out everything you bring in. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area.

Keep Exploring