98% (395) • 50 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ely
Great Basin Desert Camping & RV
1. Great Basin Desert Camping & RV
96%
(319)
44mi from Ely · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE read all of the details before booking so you book the site that works best for you and also so you understand where you are staying. You will receive messages from us after booking and before your arrival, so please check your Hipcamp inbox.
The RV spaces are behind the Baker Fuel and RV gas station. All sites are back-in only and have full hook-ups: 30amp and 50 amp electricity, sewer and water. There is a public bathroom, shower and laundry facility next to the sites. RV Site 5 is closest to the bathroom and RV Site 1 is furthest away.
This camping part of the property offers five primitive campsites, situated in a natural, secluded area that was once a pond. Conveniently just south of the only gas station in town and behind the Great Basin Basecamp Airbnb, the sites are close to the highway but sit lower in elevation, providing privacy and shielding them from the road. Guests have access to a small building with clean restrooms, showers and one set of coin-operated laundry facilities for added convenience. Campsite #1 is closest to the restrooms, #5 is the furthest. No campfires as our fire danger is very high most of the year. There are water spigots at Site #1, between #2 and #3 and Site #5.
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center at Great Basin National Park is about 5 miles up the road on Highway 488.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Schellraiser
2. Schellraiser
98%
(197)
13mi from Ely · 92 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Schellraiser music fest offers a variety of seasonal camping options at our 80-acre private campground in the cool high desert of Eastern Nevada's Steptoe Valley, near the small town of McGill.
Our Lotus Belle-brand bell tents are solar powered and fully furnished, with king, queen and twin beds; organic Avocado-brand mattresses; rugs; loveseats; floor lamps; charging ports and wi-fi service.
Car-camping and pitch-your-own-tent sites without power are also available.
Our campground features several tiny homes; we've converted the biggest one into our clubhouse that is now open to all guests from Thursday through Sunday nights. The clubhouse has a small kitchen area for cooking simple meals.
We're also gearing up to reopen our coffee bar on weekends in late spring 2025; our menu features hot and cold espresso drinks, organic teas and organic chocolate bars.
A heated six-unit restroom/shower trailer is on site.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY, TO ENSURE THAT WE MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS:
We are an OFF-GRID campground, in a very remote part of rural Eastern Nevada. To reach our campground, you must drive eight-tenths of a mile off the main highway, on a rocky DIRT ROAD that is susceptible to flooding from April to mid-July in wet years. Drivers with Teslas, Audis and low-clearance vehicles are STRONGLY ADVISED to look elsewhere for lodging.
PLEASE READ ALL CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS, OUR TRAVEL ADVISORY, OUR FIRE BAN ADVISORY AND CAMPGROUND RULES BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US.
ABOUT THE AREA: Schellraiser is just minutes away from the High Schells and Bristlecone wilderness areas, and within an hour's drive of Nevada's wildest high-mountain and high-desert scenery.
Subalpine peaks, rugged canyons, wild rock formations, natural hot springs and ghost towns are all around us, and the surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, including Nevada's biggest elk herd.
ABOUT US: We're the founders of the annual Schellraiser micro-fest, which brought bands like Ladytron, Mercury Rev, The Raveonettes, Blonde Redhead, Asleep At The Wheel, We Are Scientists, The Joy Formidable, Blitzen Trapper, Old 97's, Houndmouth, Shannon Shaw and BRONCHO to the nearby McGill Pool Park each spring. The fest will return to a new venue (not in McGill) in 2026.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$18
/ night
Great Escape Camping
3. Great Escape Camping
100%
(24)
29mi from Ely · 1 site · Tent
Escape at starry skies camp sight where you will be nestled in the trees but still have open skies to view the stars. The camp sight is private, has a sand pad for a tent, picnic table, outhouse and garbage. The campsite is conveniently located on Sacramento pass making it a great spot to rest up after exploring Great Basin National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$30
/ night
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
4. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
92%
(69)
868 sites · Mono City, California
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cave Lake State Park
5. Cave Lake State Park
100%
(2)
4 sites · Ely, Nevada
With a 32-acre lake surrounded by mountains and trees, this Nevada park offers a scenic getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rancho Los Coches RV Park
6. Rancho Los Coches RV Park
458mi from Ely · 32 sites
Nestled in the heart of east San Diego County, Rancho Los Coches RV Park stands out as the most historic RV park in Southern California, being the site of the smallest Mexican land grant from 1843. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of history and modern amenities, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding area.
Located in Lakeside, Rancho Los Coches RV Park features resort-quality accommodations, including rental units, tent sites, and RV spaces. The park is designed to be family and pet-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay.
Guests can take advantage of the park's proximity to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby natural features. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the charm and tranquility of this hidden gem in San Diego County, where history meets adventure.
Valley View RV Park and Mobile Home
7. Valley View RV Park and Mobile Home
1.7mi from Ely · 1 site
Discover the charm of Valley View R.V. Park, a unique family-owned and operated campground that has been welcoming guests since the early 1970s. Our commitment to providing exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere sets us apart from the rest.
Nestled among mature trees and lush green grass, our park offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation. Whether you want to play fetch with your dog, toss a ball with family, or simply unwind in the tranquility of nature, Valley View is the ideal spot.
Conveniently located along highways 50, 6, and 93, we are the perfect stop for weary travelers seeking a restful retreat after a long drive. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take advantage of nearby attractions, including scenic hiking trails, refreshing swimming holes, and local dining options. Come and experience the welcoming spirit of Valley View R.V. Park, where your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities.
Whispering Elms Campground
8. Whispering Elms Campground
44mi from Ely · 49 sites
Discover the unparalleled beauty of our campground, where the serenity of the wilderness meets the majesty of ancient bristlecone pines. Nestled in a unique landscape, our site offers an escape from the ordinary, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's wonders.
As night falls, experience the breathtaking clarity of the darkest skies, perfect for stargazing and connecting with the cosmos. Venture into the intriguing subterranean passages nearby, where adventure awaits at every turn. Don’t miss the chance to witness spectacular sunsets that paint the horizon in vibrant hues, creating unforgettable memories.
Beyond the desert's allure, our campground is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities. Explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and local attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty. After a day of adventure, indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants or browse charming shops that reflect the local culture. Join us for an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical desert getaway!
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
9. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
15 sites · Ely, Nevada
Explore historic beehive ovens and the Great Basin landscape at this remote Nevada park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Great Basin National Park
10. Great Basin National Park
97%
(59)
114 sites · Baker, Nevada
Remote high desert park is home to peaks, caves, ancient bristlecones, and dark night skies
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
98% (395) • 50 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ely
Great Basin Desert Camping & RV
1. Great Basin Desert Camping & RV
96%
(319)
44mi from Ely · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE read all of the details before booking so you book the site that works best for you and also so you understand where you are staying. You will receive messages from us after booking and before your arrival, so please check your Hipcamp inbox.
The RV spaces are behind the Baker Fuel and RV gas station. All sites are back-in only and have full hook-ups: 30amp and 50 amp electricity, sewer and water. There is a public bathroom, shower and laundry facility next to the sites. RV Site 5 is closest to the bathroom and RV Site 1 is furthest away.
This camping part of the property offers five primitive campsites, situated in a natural, secluded area that was once a pond. Conveniently just south of the only gas station in town and behind the Great Basin Basecamp Airbnb, the sites are close to the highway but sit lower in elevation, providing privacy and shielding them from the road. Guests have access to a small building with clean restrooms, showers and one set of coin-operated laundry facilities for added convenience. Campsite #1 is closest to the restrooms, #5 is the furthest. No campfires as our fire danger is very high most of the year. There are water spigots at Site #1, between #2 and #3 and Site #5.
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center at Great Basin National Park is about 5 miles up the road on Highway 488.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Schellraiser
2. Schellraiser
98%
(197)
13mi from Ely · 92 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Schellraiser music fest offers a variety of seasonal camping options at our 80-acre private campground in the cool high desert of Eastern Nevada's Steptoe Valley, near the small town of McGill.
Our Lotus Belle-brand bell tents are solar powered and fully furnished, with king, queen and twin beds; organic Avocado-brand mattresses; rugs; loveseats; floor lamps; charging ports and wi-fi service.
Car-camping and pitch-your-own-tent sites without power are also available.
Our campground features several tiny homes; we've converted the biggest one into our clubhouse that is now open to all guests from Thursday through Sunday nights. The clubhouse has a small kitchen area for cooking simple meals.
We're also gearing up to reopen our coffee bar on weekends in late spring 2025; our menu features hot and cold espresso drinks, organic teas and organic chocolate bars.
A heated six-unit restroom/shower trailer is on site.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY, TO ENSURE THAT WE MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS:
We are an OFF-GRID campground, in a very remote part of rural Eastern Nevada. To reach our campground, you must drive eight-tenths of a mile off the main highway, on a rocky DIRT ROAD that is susceptible to flooding from April to mid-July in wet years. Drivers with Teslas, Audis and low-clearance vehicles are STRONGLY ADVISED to look elsewhere for lodging.
PLEASE READ ALL CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS, OUR TRAVEL ADVISORY, OUR FIRE BAN ADVISORY AND CAMPGROUND RULES BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US.
ABOUT THE AREA: Schellraiser is just minutes away from the High Schells and Bristlecone wilderness areas, and within an hour's drive of Nevada's wildest high-mountain and high-desert scenery.
Subalpine peaks, rugged canyons, wild rock formations, natural hot springs and ghost towns are all around us, and the surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, including Nevada's biggest elk herd.
ABOUT US: We're the founders of the annual Schellraiser micro-fest, which brought bands like Ladytron, Mercury Rev, The Raveonettes, Blonde Redhead, Asleep At The Wheel, We Are Scientists, The Joy Formidable, Blitzen Trapper, Old 97's, Houndmouth, Shannon Shaw and BRONCHO to the nearby McGill Pool Park each spring. The fest will return to a new venue (not in McGill) in 2026.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$18
/ night
Great Escape Camping
3. Great Escape Camping
100%
(24)
29mi from Ely · 1 site · Tent
Escape at starry skies camp sight where you will be nestled in the trees but still have open skies to view the stars. The camp sight is private, has a sand pad for a tent, picnic table, outhouse and garbage. The campsite is conveniently located on Sacramento pass making it a great spot to rest up after exploring Great Basin National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$30
/ night
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
4. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
92%
(69)
868 sites · Mono City, California
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cave Lake State Park
5. Cave Lake State Park
100%
(2)
4 sites · Ely, Nevada
With a 32-acre lake surrounded by mountains and trees, this Nevada park offers a scenic getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rancho Los Coches RV Park
6. Rancho Los Coches RV Park
458mi from Ely · 32 sites
Nestled in the heart of east San Diego County, Rancho Los Coches RV Park stands out as the most historic RV park in Southern California, being the site of the smallest Mexican land grant from 1843. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of history and modern amenities, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding area.
Located in Lakeside, Rancho Los Coches RV Park features resort-quality accommodations, including rental units, tent sites, and RV spaces. The park is designed to be family and pet-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay.
Guests can take advantage of the park's proximity to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby natural features. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the charm and tranquility of this hidden gem in San Diego County, where history meets adventure.
Valley View RV Park and Mobile Home
7. Valley View RV Park and Mobile Home
1.7mi from Ely · 1 site
Discover the charm of Valley View R.V. Park, a unique family-owned and operated campground that has been welcoming guests since the early 1970s. Our commitment to providing exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere sets us apart from the rest.
Nestled among mature trees and lush green grass, our park offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation. Whether you want to play fetch with your dog, toss a ball with family, or simply unwind in the tranquility of nature, Valley View is the ideal spot.
Conveniently located along highways 50, 6, and 93, we are the perfect stop for weary travelers seeking a restful retreat after a long drive. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take advantage of nearby attractions, including scenic hiking trails, refreshing swimming holes, and local dining options. Come and experience the welcoming spirit of Valley View R.V. Park, where your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities.
Whispering Elms Campground
8. Whispering Elms Campground
44mi from Ely · 49 sites
Discover the unparalleled beauty of our campground, where the serenity of the wilderness meets the majesty of ancient bristlecone pines. Nestled in a unique landscape, our site offers an escape from the ordinary, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's wonders.
As night falls, experience the breathtaking clarity of the darkest skies, perfect for stargazing and connecting with the cosmos. Venture into the intriguing subterranean passages nearby, where adventure awaits at every turn. Don’t miss the chance to witness spectacular sunsets that paint the horizon in vibrant hues, creating unforgettable memories.
Beyond the desert's allure, our campground is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities. Explore nearby swimming holes, hiking trails, and local attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty. After a day of adventure, indulge in delicious meals at nearby restaurants or browse charming shops that reflect the local culture. Join us for an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical desert getaway!
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
9. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
15 sites · Ely, Nevada
Explore historic beehive ovens and the Great Basin landscape at this remote Nevada park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Great Basin National Park
10. Great Basin National Park
97%
(59)
114 sites · Baker, Nevada
Remote high desert park is home to peaks, caves, ancient bristlecones, and dark night skies
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
W
Wyatt
November 2025
Tent
I excellent spot! Clean! Private and love the porta potty. Some road noise because of 50 but nothing crazy. It was nice to have easy access to spot to set for a night while traveling. This is def on the list for future road trips.
See more
T
Tim
November 2025
18 ft Class B
With pets
Super easy place to spend the night. Price was right, full hookups with a shower and laundry facility. Baker is a hip little town. Grocery/book store across the street has nicely curated groceries for small store.
See moreJ
Jayme
November 2025
20 ft Class B
Janille's place is perfect. Well maintained. Clean bathrooms. Everything was easy and worked perfectly. Thanks Janille!
See more
A
Anne
November 2025
32 ft travel trailer
With pets
This location is ideal if you’re traveling across Nevada. It was very quiet and had full service, in addition to clean bathrooms and showers. I would certainly stop there again if I were in the area.
See more
G
GlenNpen
October 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
There is no gate btw. It’s just behind the baker fuel stop.
We dry docked and it was fabulous. Love the fact they are not gouging us with cost. Lovely clean restroom and shower ($3). Laundry also available. Right on the road but it’s very quiet road.
Full hooks ups were available.
Definitely camp here again if passing.
See more
J
Joseph
October 2025
33 ft Class A
Nice site !! Level gravel, new utilities , very open & quiet. The laundry & bathrooms were exceptionally clean. Easy access to the NP. Communications were informative & clear. Be aware that there is a large white dog that limps with a bad front paw that frequents the area that is super friendly & gentle but appears abandoned; he apparently belongs to the owner & regularly wanders around a lot & is fine.
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May
October 2025
Tent
Easy to find, clean restroom/facility. Felt safe as a solo traveler.
See moreA
Alisha + Thomas
October 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
We had a wonderful overnight stay at Baker Fuel and RV on our way to Great Basin. The skies were beautifully dark and absolutely filled with stars — such a peaceful spot to unwind after a day on the road.
The RV sites were super clean and well-kept, and the showers were a highlight — hot water, great pressure, and nice privacy. You can tell the owners take pride in keeping things tidy and comfortable.
Highly recommend this spot if you’re passing through or planning a visit to Great Basin. We’ll definitely stay again
See more
M
Michael
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
We have a travel trailer and this was a nice small campground with everything we look for in a site . A perfect spot to explore the area. I like small towns and you can’t get much smaller.
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R
Rolling
October 2025
45 ft toy hauler
What a nice spot even with the shut down it was still worth it
See more
Jeff
October 2025
28 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very clean and quiet.. we stayed in the RV section and found the utility hook-ups are in great condition. The site was level and spaces are roomy.
See more
M
MIKE
October 2025
38 ft toy hauler
We enjoyed our stay. It was surprisingly quiet.
If I were to give cons to the site it would be, Site 3 was not very level. We couldn't move picnic table closer to the front door of rig due to mounds of dirt causing table to be very unlevel. The sewer hookup was rather far away from our hook up, but it did work. Although, the sewer connection is way to high out of the ground, and I couldn't get a slope to sewer to drain tanks well.
I do have a question about the large pipe you have towards the street with a sign that is very outdated, and I am surprised it is still there. My understanding SNWA abandoned their effort to tap in the aquifer back in 2020!
See moreA
Andy
October 2025
35 ft travel trailer
With pets
These are very simple but level camp sites with well-maintained full hookups. The location is convenient to the national park visitor center and to the handful of businesses in town. The sites are easy in & easy out, even for big rigs, and a dumpster is conveniently located. There's an unattended 24-hour gas station on the same lot that carries diesel and is also easy access for big rigs.
See moreI
Iris
October 2025
25 ft travel trailer
For us, this was the perfect spot to stay for exploring Great Basin National Park. Its proximity to the park was why we chose it. We received quick communication from the host with all the check-in info. When we arrived we were able to pull right in to our site and setup—no need to check in with anyone. The site was fairly level, we had to level a small amount. The power, water, and sewer hookups worked perfectly. We were in site 5 closest to the bathroom building, but that was not an issue. The view out our back window of the basin and distant mountains was worth it. The view at sunset was stunning. The little 2-pump gas station at the front of the property was a non-issue. We were never bothered by any noise from the station or bathroom. The Bristlecone General Store is a quick walk away and it is adorable. It’s a great place to grab a snack and coffee. The sky at night was beautiful. We drove up the park road at night to get away from the town lights so we could do some stargazing. Will 100% stay here again.
See moreS
Steve
October 2025
27 ft travel trailer
RV spots are easy back in for any length big rigs. Full hook ups great. Easy for our 27 foot ball mount trailer. The bathroom showers are new remodels and very very clean. 2 nights stay in Baker was quiet. I would stay again.
See morea
annette
October 2025
27 ft travel trailer
Camp site was perfect, quite, full hook ups, two clean newly remodeled large showers and bathrooms. Great place! Highly recommend, especially for cold temps at Great Basin campgrounds.
See moreC
Catherine
October 2025
Tent
Easy access to park. Bathrooms showers and LAUNDRY!
See moreN
Noah
October 2025
19 ft campervan
Easy self-service situation! Clean facilities. After vacating my spot I rode down the rode to a forest service road that went all the way up to the Park. Very cool spot, will keep in mind when I come back this way!
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C
Camille
October 2025
1 night at Schellraiser
Amazing views! Great stay! Brian was a great host :) Highly recommend staying a few nights if you can!
See moreR
R
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Bathrooms and showers were amazingly well kept for ones that are public. Recommend
See more
Camping near Ely guide
Where to go
Ely Area and State Parks
Several RV parks near Ely offer tent, RV, and cabin camping, while yurts can be found in McGill. Head to Cave Lakes State Park for water activities, hiking, great mountain biking, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and two developed campgrounds. At Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, visitors can spend the night and explore historic charcoal ovens from the 1870s. Further west, the BLM-run Illipah Campground next to Illipah Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing in summer and ice fishing in winter.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
The Ely Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest spans around one million acres, including some of the most rugged backcountry terrain in the forest. Four developed campgrounds can be found nearby, including Ward Mountain Campground just south of Ely and the East Creek, Bird Creek, and Timber Creek campgrounds to the northeast of Ely. Eight surrounding wilderness areas also offer plenty of opportunities for backcountry camping.
Great Basin National Park
About an hour east of Ely, Great Basin National Park is one of the least visited parks in the country. It’s home to the Lehman Caves, ancient bristlecone pines, the second highest peak in the state, Wheeler Peak, and incredibly dark night skies, which campers can appreciate from one of five developed campgrounds, including one open year-round.
When to go
Summer is a good time to visit Ely, when temperatures are warm but pleasant. Plentiful winter activities make winter another good time to visit, though many area campgrounds will be closed then. Look for the largest herd of elk in Nevada feeding around Ely during spring and fall. The Renaissance Village is open from late May to late September. Visit in September for the Great Basin Astronomy Festival and January for the Fire and Ice show.