- South Fork State Recreation Area
The best campsites in South Fork State Recreation Area, NV
Find trophy trout fishing, water play, camping, and Ruby Mountain views at this northeast Nevada gem.
The best campsites in South Fork State Recreation Area, NV
South Fork Campground
1. South Fork Campground
25 units · Tents, Motorhomes · In South Fork State Recreation Area
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Roughin It At Rabbit Ears
2. Roughin It At Rabbit Ears
100%
(39)
21km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Rabbit Ears is located in Pleasant Valley at the base of the Ruby Mountains. Our property is about 2 miles from the turnoff to Lamoille Canyon and features amazing views of the Ruby range. The lot is entirely fenced so feel free to bring your well behaved 4 legged friends, just note that the neighbors have sheep so escape happy dogs may need some supervision. The site has water, electric, and sewer hookups if needed.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from
$23
/ night
Ethereal Ranch
3. Ethereal Ranch
96%
(25)
52km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 51 units · Tents, Motorhomes
22 miles from the city of Elko, remote enough to enjoy the peace and quiet, while just a short car ride to the town of Ryndon that can provide you with all of your essentials. Hundreds of acres of land to keep you busy with incredible outdoor activities. Set up your camp and enjoy your stay!
Stunning views of the ruby mountain range in addition to being home to the state's only population of mountain goats, the Rubies are also home to Nevada's largest mule deer herd.
All funds go to our animal sanctuary under the Ethereal Ranch Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, ranch operations and development.
Animals are free-ranged and may include but not limited to livestock, domestic and exotic rescued animals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Riley’s Escape
4. Riley’s Escape
100%
(1)
39km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Riley’s escape is a high desert 2 acre lot nestled in the gorgeous valley of rural Elko NV. Swim or tube in the pristine, shallow, clean Columbia River within walking distance of property while gazing at the snow capped Ruby mountains. This is a boon-docking site. Zero toilets, showers, water or hook ups. Located minutes off highway. Ideal for tents or campers. Large gravel patch approx 20 L 8 W for camper. Wonderful Parks, hiking and outdoor sports. Ghost towns galore. Great view of stars in the night. NV is a free range state so never leave food out or cows and sheep may help themselves! Wildlife and farm animals galore here!
* Weekly/Monthly discounts!
* Veteran and active duty discounts!
Pets
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
High Desert Dry Camping
5. High Desert Dry Camping
86%
(7)
70km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
I have found a place that speaks to me through its silence and stillness.
May your stay here be a porthole into a new perspective on what mother nature and the awe inspiring universe have to offer.Learn more about this land: Experience high desert camping in one of the least populated counties in the United States. Stunning panoramic views of Cresent Valley and the surrounding mountains. Over a thousand acres of adjacent BLM land to explore. Enjoy some of the darkest night skys in the country. Easy to get to. Almost all of it highway driving. The last 3.5 miles are along very well maintained dirt road.
Pets
from
$24
/ night
Daviterra Ranch
6. Daviterra Ranch
73km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Flat, fully fenced in, up to 4 sites for rent camping and rv's, parking right next to each individual site. Dry camping. No facilities. Private, beautiful mountain views, clear star-filled night skies. Quiet, little traffic. Easy road access.
Pets
from
$30
/ night
Historic Cortez And Tenabo Mines
7. Historic Cortez And Tenabo Mines
75km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
In the city of Crescent Valley NV, borders Hunting areas 14 and 15, minutes from a hot spring, and the Historic town of Cortez and Tenabo. A Sportsman's Paradise. Hours and miles of side by side trails and roads. The wild West is just outside of town, everywhere you look
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from
$20
/ night
Double Dice RV Park
8. Double Dice RV Park
21km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 2 units
Welcome to Double Dice RV Park, a unique family-owned destination that combines the comforts of a full-service RV park with the vibrant atmosphere of a sports bar and grill. Our park features 140 spacious RV sites equipped with 30/50 amp service, phone service, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay for all our guests.
At Double Dice, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional amenities. Enjoy 53 channels of cable television right at your site, allowing you to unwind after a day of adventure. Our sports lounge is the perfect place to relax, featuring five big-screen TVs, pool tables, and shuffleboard, along with delicious homemade food that will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you're looking to explore nearby natural attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, or indulge in local dining and shopping, Double Dice RV Park is ideally situated to offer you a memorable experience. Come and discover the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation at our welcoming park!
Welcome Station RV Park
9. Welcome Station RV Park
72km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit
Discover the unique charm of Welcome Station RV Park, a stunning oasis nestled in the high desert of Northeast Nevada. This picturesque campground spans 5 acres of lush grass, adorned with towering shady trees, creating a serene park-like atmosphere perfect for your camping adventures.
We offer a variety of accommodations, including full-hookup sites, primitive tent sites, and convenient pull-thru sites (1-8). Our high-speed internet with streaming capabilities ensures you stay connected while enjoying the great outdoors. Families and pet lovers will feel right at home here, as we warmly welcome kids and pets alike.
Conveniently located just off I-80 at Exit 343, our park is situated 8 miles west of Wells, Nevada, and a short 40-minute drive east of Elko, Nevada. This prime location allows easy access to nearby attractions, including natural wonders, swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, as well as local restaurants and shops.
We are excited to announce that we are OPEN for the 2025 season! Reserve your favorite site now through the RV & Tent Sites Tab or by clicking "BOOK NOW." Upon your arrival, our friendly staff will escort you to your designated site. Please note that check-in is at 1 PM Pacific Time, and we do
Launch Pointe
10. Launch Pointe
791km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 182 units
Launch Pointe stands out as a premier RV camping destination in Southern California, offering a diverse range of seven unique camping spaces tailored to meet every camper's needs. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat, a spacious lawn with stunning lake views, or convenient access to essential amenities, Launch Pointe has it all. In addition to traditional RV sites, guests can enjoy the charm of vintage trailers and cozy yurts, providing a distinctive camping experience.
Families will find plenty of entertainment options, including the impressive Canopy Court playground, designed to be every child's dream. This playground features a variety of climbing structures and play equipment, all situated on a cushioned surface to ensure safety and comfort. Don't forget to explore the newly added splash pad, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
At Launch Pointe, relaxation is key. You can unwind in a hammock beneath the shade of majestic pecan trees or indulge in thrilling water sports by skiing behind a boat. With its beautiful surroundings and numerous outdoor activities, Launch Pointe is the ideal spot for a memorable camping getaway.
Catalina Island Company
11. Catalina Island Company
846km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 27 units
Catalina Island offers a unique camping experience that immerses you in its stunning natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities. With campgrounds located in Avalon and Two Harbors, you can enjoy both convenience and adventure. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Black Jack Campground lies just below the 2,097-foot peak of Mt. Orizaba, the island's highest point. Parson's Landing, a hidden gem seven miles west of Two Harbors, provides a tranquil beachside camping experience, while Little Harbor, recognized by Sunset Magazine as "One of the Best Campgrounds in the West," offers breathtaking views on the island's backside.
For a truly distinctive adventure, consider our Boat-in Camping sites, perfect for those who want to explore the island from the water. If you prefer to enjoy nature without the hassle of packing gear, we also provide Tent Cabins in Avalon and Two Harbors, in addition to traditional tent sites.
No matter which campground you choose, you will be surrounded by Catalina Island's endless beauty and warm hospitality. Enjoy nearby attractions such as swimming holes, hiking trails, and local restaurants and shops, making your camping trip an unforgettable experience.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next South Fork State Recreation Area adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near South Fork State Recreation Area
Roughin It At Rabbit Ears
Roughin It At Rabbit Ears
100%
(39)
21km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Rabbit Ears is located in Pleasant Valley at the base of the Ruby Mountains. Our property is about 2 miles from the turnoff to Lamoille Canyon and features amazing views of the Ruby range. The lot is entirely fenced so feel free to bring your well behaved 4 legged friends, just note that the neighbors have sheep so escape happy dogs may need some supervision. The site has water, electric, and sewer hookups if needed.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from
$23
/ night
Ethereal Ranch
Ethereal Ranch
96%
(25)
52km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 51 units · Tents, Motorhomes
22 miles from the city of Elko, remote enough to enjoy the peace and quiet, while just a short car ride to the town of Ryndon that can provide you with all of your essentials. Hundreds of acres of land to keep you busy with incredible outdoor activities. Set up your camp and enjoy your stay!
Stunning views of the ruby mountain range in addition to being home to the state's only population of mountain goats, the Rubies are also home to Nevada's largest mule deer herd.
All funds go to our animal sanctuary under the Ethereal Ranch Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, ranch operations and development.
Animals are free-ranged and may include but not limited to livestock, domestic and exotic rescued animals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Riley’s Escape
Riley’s Escape
100%
(1)
39km from South Fork State Recreation Area · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Riley’s escape is a high desert 2 acre lot nestled in the gorgeous valley of rural Elko NV. Swim or tube in the pristine, shallow, clean Columbia River within walking distance of property while gazing at the snow capped Ruby mountains. This is a boon-docking site. Zero toilets, showers, water or hook ups. Located minutes off highway. Ideal for tents or campers. Large gravel patch approx 20 L 8 W for camper. Wonderful Parks, hiking and outdoor sports. Ghost towns galore. Great view of stars in the night. NV is a free range state so never leave food out or cows and sheep may help themselves! Wildlife and farm animals galore here!
* Weekly/Monthly discounts!
* Veteran and active duty discounts!
Pets
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
G
Glenda
November 2025
12 m fifth wheel
Great little quiet spot with awesome views of the mountains. Full hookups - lots of deer wandering around - nice and relaxing
See more
J
Jason
November 2025
9 m Class C
Beautiful place to spend a few days. Not too far from town and a beautiful view of the Ruby mountains. Full hookups and easy in and out to the property. I would definitely stay here again.
See moreM
Mark
October 2025
9 m travel trailer
David’s land was spectacular! Everything went as planned. The view from the site was wonderful and we will be planning trips in the future and reserving the exact same spot.
See more
Eric
September 2025
7 m campervan
With pets
If you’re not comfortable with a long gravel road that changes over time, this might not be the journey for you. At times it was a bit bumpy a the road changes from smooth to washboard, but patient driving (and airing down a few psi) can help smooth it out.
Once you arrive Jay is there to greet you. His chill vibe speaks volumes for what he’s building out there. It’s truly a beautiful space the likes of which I’ve never encountered before. We had ideal weather, a bit warm when we arrived with a light wind, cooling down nicely overnight. Endless stars and zero lights made for an epic setting.
At a minimum you’ll get dusty but if you’re not getting a little dirty are you really camping?
See moreM
Michael
September 2025
7 m Class C
Just pulled in and hooked up. That easy. Peaceful and beautiful view
See more
Wendy Carol
September 2025
6 m campervan
With pets
Incredible mountain views, fully-fenced privacy, nearby Lamoille Canyon, full hookups, with nearby horses & sheep in the distance…can’t go wrong with this place!
See moreS
Sean
September 2025
Tent
The spot was remote and a bit of a journey to reach, but I was interested in that, and considered it part of the adventure. Loved the peace and solitude of the site. Jay was a great host, communicative and friendly. The goats were a bonus! Recommend.
See moreJ
JR
September 2025
7 m travel trailer
With pets
We had to drive from the freeway to get to this site but it was well worth the drive out. Beautiful view of the Ruby Mountains. The lot is behind a gate in a fairly quiet area. I would definitely recommend to others.
See more
A
Aidan
September 2025
Tent
Great view. Needed a place to land between stops and this was perfect. I was tenting which was a bit tougher than if you had an rv or self contained camper but using a tarp as an extra ground sheet did the trick and had a great sleep still. Highly recommend
See more
Faith
September 2025
11 m travel trailer
We spent one night at Rabbit Ears, and loved the peace and quiet, the horses and sheep grazing in the field below, and mostly the view! Absolutely beautiful to watch an afternoon storm move across the Ruby Mountains and darken the canyon. In the morning we enjoyed hearing birds singing, and even saw a quick little rabbit!
Site was level, electric hookup was handy, easy to access. A great find, thanks for the hospitality!
See moreS
Shannon
September 2025
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful views and peaceful site. Site is between 2 homes so I was a little worried about the kids making too much noise at dark. We made quiet hours start at 8pm and it was fine. Saw the horses and sheep in the field below. A couple of deer and bunnies showed up too! Our dogs loved being able to roam and it was a full hook up site so major bonus! Would camp here again.
See moreT
Tydon
August 2025
10 m travel trailer
With pets
The end of Lamoille Canyon is 30 minutes away, there are deer roaming around, the sky is beautiful, it's quiet. This was a great stay, would return. 10/10
See moreA
Andrew
August 2025
Tent
The host was friendly and helpful. Spot is very isolated but the host still had free wifi! The only thing is that it’s a 45min drive down an unpaved road to get there. Overall would recommend.
See moreR
Richard
August 2025
4 m campervan
Amazing views, and just a few minutes from the incredibly spectacular Lamoille Canyon, which is a rare beauty of a place indeed. I venture to say that it is a must see.
See moreA
Augusta
August 2025
Tent
Super barebones but a nice, quiet escape from everything. Looks like described and we loved watching the horses and sheep next door
See moreM
Matt
July 2025
6 m pop-up camper
Great spot near the mouth of Lamoille Canyon. Quiet, safe, gorgeous view!
See more
Mike
July 2025
6 m campervan
Such a nice spot. It's in a neighborhood, but doesn't feel like it. Easy to get to and the hook-ups were awesome. Just a great spot!
See moreA
Austin
July 2025
Tent
Great view, and campsite with easy access to the Ruby Mountains
See more
J
Jim
July 2025
6 m campervan
With pets
Really cool place! Jay is a very friendly host. We had no problem getting up driveway with 4WD camper van. Beautiful views of high desert with Ruby Mountains in the distance. Great for skywatchers.
See more
Travis
July 2025
5 m pop-up camper
With kids
David's place was a great place for us to post up for the night! Beautiful views of mountains and farm animals and a full electric + water hookup! Easy to find, enter, and get setup!
See moreThe best campsites in South Fork State Recreation Area, NV guide
Overview
About
Located near Elko in northeastern Nevada, South Fork State Recreation Area stuns with a landscape of rolling hills and meadows with the scenic Ruby Mountains as a backdrop. The highlight is the 1,600-acre South Fork Reservoir, created when the south fork of the Humboldt River was dammed. Famed for its bass and trophy trout fishing, boating, padding, and swimming are also popular on the reservoir. The park also offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, seasonal hunting, and extensive wildlife, including waterfowl. Additional amenities include two boat ramps, picnic areas, and both develop and primitive campgrounds.
Notable campgrounds
The South Fork Campground offers sites for tents and RVs, along with picnic tables, grills, fire rings, restrooms with showers, and an RV dump station.
- Best for RVs: The East Campground offers six pull-in sites and power.
- Best for groups: Sites 1, 25, and Tomera Cove offer group camping.
- Best for water access: Open primitive camping is available along the southwest shore of the reservoir.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- All campsites are first-come first-served, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day.
- Try visiting during the week and during off-peak and non-holiday times if your plans are flexible
- If traveling with a group, you can make reservations for the group camping spots.
When to go
The park is open year-round and offers outdoor recreation all year. Summers are ideal for water recreation on the reservoir. Spring and summer offer the best trout fishing, while late spring is better for bass. Fall colors can be spectacular, especially in nearby Lamoille Canyon. The campground is open from May to October, depending on the weather. Winter weather and snow can affect road and other access, though ice fishing and cross-country skiing are popular activities over the winter.
Know before you go
- Drive only on established roads and park in designated areas.Hunting is permitted in season with a shotgun or archery only, and must be more than a quarter mile away from developed facilities.
- Campfires are only allowed in fire rings; ground fires are not permitted.
- Pets are welcome but must be kept on a six feet leash.
- A fishing license is required to fish at the reservoir; fishing regulations are also in effect.
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