Stories from the community
Dr. Sean
November 2025
28 ft travel trailer
If you like the feel of the desert and the enchanting ambiance of an oasis, this is your place. Shawna is a wonderful person who ensures you are comfortable in every way. Merlin Springs is highly recommended. We will be back.
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Kathrine
October 2025
16 ft car
Shawna and Merlin Springs were fabulous! Sharma was accommodating and wonderful, and the site was spectacular. The views at sunrise and sunset were lovely and the area was serene and peaceful.
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Crystal
September 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved camping at Shawna's property! It was exactly what we were looking for and just what we needed to get away and disconnect. I loved the stars and seeing the milky was stunning and relaxing. The best place for exploring and relaxing.
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Sara
September 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
This site was one of our favorites! Secluded, but there's a cute small town that is nearby-ish. Quiet and relaxing, we had a great time stargazing and relaxing in the chairs and picnic table. There was a huge hawk that flew by kinda close so we kept our small dog close by our sides.
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Andrea
August 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Group trip
Awesome host. Shawna went out of her way to help us and it was such a lovely, tranquil, open space. Would definitely recommend it. I'm sure we will be back at some point.
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Susan
August 2025
20 ft campervan
This spot of Shawna’s was so peaceful and quiet, what a nice respite!! So beautiful at sunrise and sunset, and cows nearby in the field. I will definitely be back when it’s a little cooler during the day, but it cooled off nicely at night !!
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Shannon
June 2025
25 ft pop-up camper
This spot is relaxing and very beautiful. Directions were spot on, and location easy to find. The site itself was flat , open , and easy to maneuver our camper around on to find just the right spot. It was a great location to use as a home base while visiting Squaw Creek Lake, the Playa, Gerlack, and the Hot Springs.
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Carissa
June 2025
19 ft Class C
With pets
We had such a wonderful time at this site! Our dog was able to explore freely as we enjoyed the peace and beauty of the area. Highly recommend!
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Sara
June 2025
24 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We had an absolutely wonderful time at Merlin Springs. The site is nestled up against a little wetland and cluster of cottonwood trees. It’s so incredible to be in such a lush environment while surrounded by desert. The air was full of birdsong. It is truly serene and peaceful. We will definitely be coming back!
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Jeff
May 2025
Tent
As many have stated it’s a super peaceful site. Easy to get to and well kept. Shawna was quick to reply as well as to offer any assistance needed. I’m looking forward to booking again!
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Lauren
May 2025
14 ft travel trailer
Shawna was wonderful and very friendly. She made sure we had everything we needed to be comfortable. The site was clean and secluded. We had a great time and would definitely come again!
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Ed
April 2025
24 ft Class C
With pets
Merlin Springs is a few miles outside the city and is very secluded. The chairs overlook a field with a small creek where geese fly over and sounds of frogs abound. Coming from a big city this site was paradise. We went there at end of Aril and the weather was nice. I expect summers maybe hot.
Unfortunately there was a rain storm on our 2nd night. We were traveling in a 24’ class C. We had some challenges getting out of the site. A lighter class B would have been better that day.
Shawna being the ultimate host found another place for us to park for our last evening.
Gerlach is an interesting place. While there make sure you visit Plant X Pottery nearby and take a tour of Fly Geyser.
Thank you Shawna for your suggestions and making sure we didn’t have any issues because of the weather.
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Daniel
April 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Host was communicative and the spot was great! Would stay here again.
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Kathryn
April 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
Loved this Hipcamp. Easy to find. Great communication from owner. The scenery and wildlife viewing are spectacular. Will return!
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Alex
March 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Beautiful spot and campsite with a picnic table, lawn chairs, a fire pit and some wood available. My only note about it is to check the local weather before going! It can be a very windy area, but that's all Mother Nature and doesn't detract from the beauty of the area. (:
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Aaron
March 2025
16 ft travel trailer
The site is as primitive as it is beautiful. We're lucky Shawna is sharing Merlin Springs with us and I left thinking of when I might return. Camping in the Nevada high desert is challenging but this place makes all the work and preparation worth it. Thanks again, Shawna!
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Sarah
October 2024
16 ft car
A stunning, secluded campsite that offers the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Nestled in serene surroundings, this spot provides easy access to the remarkable Black Rock Desert, making it perfect for those looking to explore its breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy both tranquility and adventure in one perfect location!
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