Terraces Campground - Picnic Area

Star4.44
14 reviews
140 Pacific Ave

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$5 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Open from June 17 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Scenic Canyons site

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Terraces Campground - Picnic Area
$5.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season group overnight tent camping fee is $100 per night. Day-use picnic fee is $5. Reservation service fees may apply, including $8 for online...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$100.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
775-752-3357

What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 14 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanwaterwell-maintained

"User reviews for Terraces Campground are generally positive, highlighting the cleanliness of facilities, the scenic beauty of the Ruby Mountains, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. However, some reviewers noted issues with group reservation management."

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Fees & Passes at Terraces Campground - Picnic Area

$5 - $100/night

Campsite fees

Group Site

For large groups

$100/night

Stay Limit: Up to 14 nights allowable per visit.

Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled any time prior to arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancell...

Prices verified November 27, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Scenic Canyons website.


Best Time to Camp at Terraces Campground - Picnic Area

Experience nature's natural air conditioning at Terraces, where summer temperatures run a refreshing 15-19°F cooler than the valley floor in nearby Elko. While winter transforms the canyon into a frozen wonderland unsuitable for camping, the summer months unveil perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Cool mountain breezes, warm sunshine, and crisp evening air create the ideal climate for gathering around the campfire and sleeping under the stars.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 17 - September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from June 17 to September 25 annually. Peak season from June 17 to September 25.

About Terraces Campground - Picnic Area

Perched high in the spectacular Lamoille Canyon, Terraces Campground offers an exclusive group camping experience that brings people together in one of Nevada's most stunning mountain settings. This tent-only facility has become the backdrop for countless memorable gatherings, from intimate mountain weddings to lively family reunions, spiritual church retreats, and team-building company picnics. Here, groups find the perfect combination of natural beauty and privacy to create lasting memories.
Terraces Campground offers group tent camping suitable for up to 75 people, with nine individual family picnic sites. It is a primitive camping area without electrical, water, or sewer hookups. The campground is specifically designed for group reservations and day-use picnics.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's natural air conditioning at Terraces, where summer temperatures run a refreshing 15-19°F cooler than the valley floor in nearby Elko. While winter transforms the canyon into a frozen wonderland unsuitable for camping, the summer months unveil perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Cool mountain breezes, warm sunshine, and crisp evening air create the ideal climate for gathering around the campfire and sleeping under the stars.
ElevationAt this breathtaking mountain perch, you'll find yourself immersed in thin, crisp air that carries the scent of pine and wildflowers. The high elevation rewards visitors with panoramic views that seem to stretch forever, though sensitive individuals should take time to acclimate to prevent altitude-related discomfort. The elevated setting creates a natural escape that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 8,000 feet into Nevada's sky, Terraces Campground sits nestled within the majestic Ruby Mountains, where groves of quaking aspens shimmer in the breeze and crystal-clear streams tumble down from hidden alpine lakes. Jagged peaks frame the horizon while meadows burst with rainbow displays of wildflowers throughout summer. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of mountain inhabitants, and autumn visitors are treated to a spectacular show as aspens transform the landscape into a golden tapestry.
Geological RegionThe Ruby Mountains stand as Nevada's alpine crown jewel, often called the 'Alps of Nevada.' This dramatic landscape features towering peaks that rise like desert islands from the surrounding valleys, their jagged silhouettes softened by pristine alpine lakes and melodic mountain streams. Carved by ancient glaciers, these mountains create a surprising oasis where wildflower meadows paint the slopes in summer color, offering a striking contrast to Nevada's more familiar desert terrain.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityPaved footpaths within the site enhance accessibility, along with a paved parking area. Specific details on ADA-compliant facilities are not provided.
Sites SizeThe site can accommodate up to 75 people and includes nine individual family picnic sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are described as close but surrounded by trees, providing moderate privacy.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites tucked into aspens for shade and privacy. Groups should plan tent placements due to limited space on picnic pads.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights allowable per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 75 people for group reservations.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 75 people and includes nine family picnic sites. If not reserved, these sites can be used on a first-come, first-serve basis for day-use picnics.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutNine family picnic sites are available for group overnight tent camping. Sites include picnic tables and grills, with paved footpaths and parking.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 17 to September 25 annually. Peak season from June 17 to September 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov and Scenic Canyons.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual family picnic sites can be used on a first-come, first-serve basis for day use if the group site is not reserved.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time prior to arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for group facilities less than 14 days before the date forfeit the first night's fee.

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

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, climbing, biking, and camping. Lamoille Creek, a popular spot for fly fishing, runs near the picnic area and contains brook and wild rainbow trout. Numerous hiking and horseback riding trails in Lamoille Canyon lead to alpine lakes and scenic vistas, while the canyon road itself is a popular destination for scenic driving and road biking.
Hiking
The area features numerous hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to alpine lakes and scenic vistas in Lamoille Canyon. Trails are suitable for various skill levels, but specific details about difficulty or trail length are not provided.
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 Lamoille Creek, which runs just outside the picnic area. The creek is popular among fly fishermen and hosts brook and wild rainbow trout.
Biking
The canyon road in Lamoille Canyon is popular for road biking, offering scenic views along the way.
Wildlife viewing
The Ruby Mountains are described as a 'desert island brimming with wildlife,' offering ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned.
Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be obtained locally.
  • Quiet hours enforced overnight; specific times not provided.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, high elevation conditions, and generator exhaust smells reported by some users.

Weather at Terraces Campground - Picnic Area

23
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 50%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 8.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Mainly clear

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are in Elko, NV (~35 miles away), including hospitals and police stations. Ranger station for the area is located in Wells.

Good to know

Peak season datesJune 17 - September 25
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are provided. Recycling services are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLamoille Creek runs just outside the campground. It is popular among fly-fishermen for brook and wild rainbow trout.
Common complaintsComplaints include difficulty placing tents due to lack of designated tent pads and a gasoline-like smell in the mornings, possibly from generator use.
HostReviews highlight attentive, friendly, and professional camp hosts maintaining clean bathrooms and assisting visitors.

Campground Map

140 Pacific Ave
Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 to any Elko exit and head south to Idaho Street. Turn south on 12th Street (from the east) or on 5th Street (from the west), to State Route 227. Travel 25 miles on SR 227 to Forest Road 660 (Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway). Travel 10 miles on FR 660 to the picnic area.
Accessible via paved roads. Seasonal accessibility depends on conditions in Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, which can be challenging in winter.
Nearby places
Elko, NV (~35 miles, ~45 min drive)
Wells, NV (~40 miles, ~50 min drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are in Elko, NV (~35 miles away). Wells has limited provisions (~40 miles away).

Reviews from booking and map sources

4.4
14 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Terraces Campground - Picnic Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Terraces Campground are generally positive, highlighting the cleanliness of facilities, the scenic beauty of the Ruby Mountains, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. However, some reviewers noted issues with group reservation management.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes clean and well-maintained vault toilets, stunning views, and helpful camp hosts. One reviewer called it 'the cleanest bathrooms and toilets you have ever seen on the road,'...
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Based on 14 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include difficulties with group reservation management, as one reviewer described a situation where unrelated groups were allowed to use a reserved group site. Some visitors also found...
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Based on 14 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers advise contacting Scenic Canyons for reservations. Setting up tents may require creativity, as some sites lack dedicated tent pads. The area is described as much cooler than Elko, making it...
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Based on 14 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Visitors report cooler temperatures at the campground compared to Elko, making it a favorable summer destination. Seasonal weather trends or significant variations were not explicitly mentioned in...
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Based on 14 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Call Scenic Canyons for reservations. Groups only and gated campground for your group's complete privacy.' 2. 'The water is DELICIOUS.' 3. 'If you usually camp in the lower campground, give this...
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Based on 14 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific reviews highlight the group site as spacious and well-suited for events, although some noted a lack of tent pads. A reviewer mentioned that their group of about 30 tents fit comfortably.
Based on 14 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility details are limited; however, the paved paths and parking area are generally appreciated. No specific reviews from users with disabilities are provided.
Based on 14 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews or information addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features are available.
Based on 14 reviews

Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers

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Last updated November 27, 2025
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