Timber Creek Campground
4.6819 reviews825 AVENUE E
Timber Creek Campground
$10.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$55.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites range in cost depending on capacity: up to 29 people is $35/day, 30-49 people is $45/day, and 50-100 people is $55/day. Standard nonelectric sites cost $10/day.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Schell Creek Range at 8,500 feet, Timber Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. Here, where a crystal-clear perennial creek whispers through dense forests and the majestic High Schells Wilderness looms nearby, you'll discover a secluded haven perfect for those who crave solitude among the pines. Whether you're casting a line in the creek, exploring backcountry trails on foot or horseback, or navigating the rugged terrain on your off-road vehicle, this high-altitude sanctuary in Duck Creek Basin promises the kind of untamed beauty that makes memories last a lifetime.
Timber Creek Campground offers group camping sites for up to 100 people, as well as individual sites. Tent camping is available, but reviewers note limited space for multiple tents at some sites.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the forest, the past comes alive at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park, where massive beehive-shaped stone structures stand as monuments to Nevada's mining heritage. These perfectly preserved ovens, complete with interpretive trails, tell the story of the Wild West's industrial age. For those seeking more adventure in history, the town of Ely offers rides aboard the Northern Nevada Railway, where vintage locomotives chug through the same landscapes that once carried copper and gold seekers to their fortunes.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate at Timber Creek tells a tale of dramatic seasons. Winter transforms this landscape into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures that demand respect and occasional dustings of snow that can surprise even in shoulder seasons. But when late spring arrives, the campground awakens to welcome adventurers through early fall's golden days. Summer brings gloriously dry conditions perfect for stargazing, though the high elevation means cool evenings that invite campfire gatherings and warm sleeping bags.
ElevationAt 8,500 feet above sea level, Timber Creek Campground places you in the realm of eagles and ancient peaks. This lofty perch brings crisp, clean air that fills your lungs with the essence of wilderness, though newcomers should pace themselves as they adjust to the thinner atmosphere. The elevation gifts campers with naturally cool temperatures that provide sweet relief from desert heat below, creating perfect conditions for refreshing mountain mornings and comfortable afternoon adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where towering Engelmann spruce reach skyward alongside trembling aspens and stately white firs, creating a natural canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Come autumn, the aspens burst into flames of gold that rival any New England display. The perennial stream that gives the campground its name provides a constant mountain soundtrack, while just beyond your tent, the High Schells Wilderness showcases dramatic peaks soaring above 11,000 feet—silent sentinels that have watched over this pristine basin for millennia.
Geological RegionTimber Creek Campground sits within the remarkable Duck Creek Basin, a natural amphitheater carved into the eastern Nevada landscape by the ancient forces that built the Schell Creek Range. This geological wonderland combines the best of mountain and forest ecosystems, where Engelmann spruce, aspen groves, and white fir forests thrive in the mineral-rich soils. The crown jewel remains the adjacent High Schells Wilderness, where jagged peaks exceeding 11,000 feet create a dramatic backdrop, while the perennial stream threading through camp serves as a liquid lifeline that has sustained this verdant oasis through countless seasons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and some accessible sites are mentioned in authoritative sources.
Sites SizeGroup sites cater to between 25-100 people, and individual sites offer space for 1-8 individuals. User reviews note limited level areas for large tents.
Sites PrivacyGroup sites are described as being far apart, providing privacy ('The group spaces are far apart from each other, so much so that you cannot see the next campsite'). Individual sites are not immediately next to each other.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite B: Spacious, secluded, and good for small groups. Site E: Beautiful creek crossing, well-shaded, ideal for tents. Site C: Limited space for tents, better for RVs.
Best CampsitesGroup sites B and E are highly recommended according to user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group sites accommodate 25-100 people
- individual sites accommodate fewer people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate between 25-100 people, but user reviews indicate variability in tent space availability ('There was no area for 25 people to set up tents and camp').
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsite layout includes a mix of group and individual sites, some requiring short walks from parking areas over bridges.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 22, 2025 - October 31, 2025 (Peak Season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual campsites within the campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee, and late cancellations may also subtract the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 change fee if the new stay dates differ completely from the original.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can engage in hiking, horseback riding, fishing, off-road vehicle riding, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and more. Key highlights include access to the High Schells Wilderness and the 30-mile Success Loop Scenic Drive.
Hiking
Multiple hiking opportunities exist, including access to trails within the High Schells Wilderness ('The High Schells Wilderness can be accessed from a trailhead located a half-mile up the road from the campground').Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in Timber Creek, which hosts rainbow and brook trout.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible below the campground ('Access to the Ranger OHV Trail is located below the campground and offers recreational opportunities for mountain bikes').Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by Engelmann spruce, aspen, and white fir trees, creating an environment conducive to birding and wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options are suggested, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings provided. Campers are encouraged to gather firewood on-site.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsNo cell signal, tight road conditions restrict trailer/RV length. Wildlife may be present but not specified as hazardous.
Active alertsRunning water not available due to construction as of July 2023.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ely houses emergency services approximately 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' site, meaning campers are responsible for removing their trash from the premises.
Proximity to water featuresTimber Creek flows through the campground, providing fishing opportunities for rainbow and brook trout.
Common complaintsSome reviews mentioned trash in the creek and cigarette litter. A few large group sites are reported to lack adequate space for tents.
HostNo camp host available as noted in one review.
Campground Map
825 AVENUE E
Driving directionsFrom McGill, travel north on Highway 93 for 5 miles. Turn on State Route 486 and continue 8 miles on the paved road. Turn left on Forest Road 425, at the Timber Creek sign, and drive up the dirt road another 3 miles to the campground.
The entry dirt road to the campsites is slow going, long and very bumpy. Trailers and RVs are limited to 34 feet in length due to tight turns.Nearby places
Ely: 25 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and supplies available in Ely, 25 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
19 reviews
Timber Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users praise Timber Creek Campground for its beauty and remote location. Highlights include the peaceful creek, stargazing opportunities, and privacy. However, complaints include the lack of level tent space, trash management issues, and bumpy access roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the serene creek, excellent stargazing, clean vault toilets, and well-maintained picnic tables.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback highlights limited level areas for tents, trash in the stream due to irresponsible campers, and the long, bumpy dirt road leading to the site.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sturdy trash bags as campers must carry out their trash. Visit during fall for stunning foliage. Use smaller tents due to limited level space.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall reviews often mention the beautiful foliage and quiet atmosphere. Summer reviews highlight stargazing and creek activities but sometimes note excessive heat or lack of water due to construction....
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The most beautiful campground I've ever seen. Go to sleep listening to this pulchritudinous creek babbling in your ear.' 2. 'A hidden gem of a campground...Lovely little river running through an...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site E is praised for its beauty and accessibility ('Site E was beautiful. You do have to walk a short distance to the campsite from the car, over a small creek with a bridge.'). Site C receives...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Group site E requires crossing a footbridge, but vault toilets are accessible. Some sites have limited accessibility due to uneven terrain.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific pet-friendly features are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025