Samuel Buckland Campground, near Fort Churchill State Historic Park, is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy a bit of nature without straying too far from civilization. This spot is known for its spacious sites and the shade provided by mature cottonwood trees, making it a comfortable place to set up camp.

The campground is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Visitors have noted the cleanliness of the facilities, and many appreciate the well-maintained walking paths that wind through the area. One camper mentioned, “The park was exceptionally clean,” which speaks to the care taken by the staff.

If you’re up for some exploration, you’re just a stone's throw from the historic Fort Churchill, where you can dive into some local history. The surrounding landscape offers beautiful views and a chance to spot wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Some campers have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, saying it’s a nice escape from the hustle and bustle.

While the campground has its quirks, like a few tight spots for larger RVs, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. Whether you’re planning a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, Samuel Buckland Campground provides a nice blend of comfort and adventure.

The main campground has 20 sites suitable for travel trailers, motorhomes or tents. Campsites include a table and fire ring, and all are shaded by large cottonwood trees. Sites cannot be reserved and there are no hook-ups, but an RV dump station is nearby. A camping limit of 7 days in a 30-day period is enforced.

Scout Camp is located on the Carson River Ranch section of Fort Churchill, adjacent to the Carson River. It is a large, dispersed camping or day-use area that includes picnic tables, fire rings with grill tops, one vault toilet, and multiple horse corrals. Scout Camp is a carry in, carry out trash area. Horse manure needs to be picked up and carried out, or disposed of in the designated manure dump. There is no electricity or water available here. Sites cannot be reserved.

Group Area: The group area will accommodate up to 60 persons for group camping or picnicking on a reservation-only basis. No electricity is available. No RVs, please. For reservations, contact the park office.

Samuel Buckland Campground — Fort Churchill State Historic Park

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Silver Springs

The Best Camping Near Silver Springs, Nevada

Bring all items you need or be prepared to leave camp to go to the store.

Good family campground with lots of amenities and benefits

4th of July weekend

Had a great time celebrating the 4th. Ft Churchill staff had an old time type of celebration. Fun activities for the entire family. 

July 4th Weekends

You must go through the main entrance to the Fort Churchill historical site to enter this campground. DO NOT drive down the gravel road that runs along the river. There is no camping at the historical site, only in Samuel Buckland Campground.  It’s very nicely laid out, with some pull through and back in spots. No hook ups, vault toilets. $5 firewood at the Fort Churchill entrance, but no burning allowed at this time. We were nicely surprised to have water spigots at the sites (not hook ups). First come first served $15 per night and  very quiet at night for a good sleep.  Verizon cell service was not good. 

We had a hard time finding entrance 

Great little campground with plenty of shade for all nestled among ancient and stately cottonwood trees. Not many spots but that makes it nice. Large sagebrush and trees also provide privacy. Lots of birds and wildlife to observe as well. Close to the Fort Churchill historic fort for interest too.

Desert Oasis 

Camping during a heat wave so RVs had generators going and tent site near us was having a party. But overall this was chill, plenty of spots on a Sunday evening in July, easy to find (don’t use the GPS directions from this app - nav to Fort Churchill and camp is in the park. 

Cell service came and went. 

Clean, spacious but a little noisy 

Pretty standard state park campground, bathrooms are a little run down. New tables, mature trees, trails and accessible campsites and trails.


Great night

Campground is a little rough around the edges, but it’s a beautiful landscape with several marked short trails that are good for a wander. Close, and open year round so it’s great for squeezing in a weeknight when the opportunity arises.

Great for sub24h camps

Stopped by mid January on way from UT to CA. We have a 35' Southwind and were nervous considering past review. We had no problems at all driving around the campground and had numerous sites to chose from. The temp dropped to 27 at night, so the heater was important.  

The park was exceptionally clean with staff at 5 total campers at 3. We watched the sunrise over the ruins then toured the visitors center.

Crisp and Clean

This campground would be fantastic in the winter. We can after a few days of warmth and the fruit flies that infest the place had hatched. Well maintained and had great walking paths. Stars were amazing and there was only noise from the wildlife at night. 

Great campground bad bugs

Found this quiet campground in Silver Springs, NV. Only about an hour to Carson City, Reno and Virginia City. We stayed 3 nights and enjoyed the peace and quiet. 

Centrally located

Great experience all around. We pulled a 36' toy hauler, and we were able to find a pull through spot. However, it was pretty tight, and I wouldn't recommend that large of a trailer if you don't want a few scratches from bushes. The park ranger was extremely friendly and the campground was well kept.

Photos of Samuel Buckland Campground — Fort Churchill State Historic Park

Real photos from real campers