How much does camping cost at Big Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Big Creek Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Big Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Big Creek Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground is open Summer months (June-August) are likely the busiest and most weather-appropriate for camping.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Big Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Big Creek Campground: No specific fire policies stated; campers should adhere to standard safety procedures.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Big Creek Campground have?

Big Creek Campground has 8 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Big Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Big Creek Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Big Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Big Creek Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Big Creek Campground

Q: Is Big Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest that campsites are generally available even on holiday weekends, with options for boondocking nearby.

4.12

33 reviews

Big Creek Campground, Forest Service Road 002, Austin, NV

Featured in:RV Camping Nevada Mountain Camping Nevada Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Nevada +6 more

Quick Facts

6,768 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Mid-May to late Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,768 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Mid-May to late Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Big Creek Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees are required for this site.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

775-964-2671

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Big Creek Campground, Forest Service Road 002, Austin, NV

Big Creek Campground

Big Creek Campground, Forest Service Road 002, Austin, NV

Nearby places

Austin (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Austin (12 miles away) has the closest options for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Driving directionsTake US 50 West from Austin. Approximately one mile from Austin, take the Big Creek Campground turnoff. Continue south for 11 miles on Forest Service Road 002.

High-clearance vehicles are recommended for site access due to road conditions. The first two miles are asphalt, followed by 11 miles of gravel road. Some sections, particularly the first mile of gravel, can become slippery following rain.

Weather at Big Creek Campground

Current alerts(2)

High-clearance vehicles are recommended for site access due to road conditions.
Trailers are prohibited from crossing the top of Forest Service Road 002.

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Campground

Summer brings the most reliable access and comfort, with daytime highs in the 70s to mid-80s°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s°F. The creek runs stronger, Groves Lake is accessible, and high-country trails are open. July and August see the most visitors, though crowds remain light. Spring weather is unpredictable with potential cold snaps. Winter temperatures drop to freezing, covering the campground in snow. Road conditions can deteriorate after rain, and high-clearance vehicles make access easier year-round.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season, best access, warm days and cool nights; creek and lake accessible.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer months (June-August) are likely the busiest and most weather-appropriate for camping.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Mid-May to late October, contingent on weather conditions.

About Big Creek Campground

Big Creek Campground sits at 6,768 feet where Kingston Canyon meets the Toiyabe Range foothills in central Nevada. The campground has 8 sites alongside Big Creek, with vault toilets and picnic tables but no potable water. Sites are open and level enough for travel trailers, though vegetation is sparse and privacy limited. Groves Lake lies higher in the range for visitors looking to explore beyond camp.

Big Creek Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers. Primitive camping is possible in certain areas near the campground, and some group camping areas are also available.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access and comfort, with daytime highs in the 70s to mid-80s°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s°F. The creek runs stronger, Groves Lake is accessible, and high-country trails are open. July and August see the most visitors, though crowds remain light. Spring weather is unpredictable with potential cold snaps. Winter temperatures drop to freezing, covering the campground in snow. Road conditions can deteriorate after rain, and high-clearance vehicles make access easier year-round.

ElevationPerched at the gateway to Kingston Canyon, Big Creek Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring the Toiyabe Range's vertical wonders. From this strategic vantage point, you'll wake to panoramic views of rugged peaks that seem to scrape the Nevada sky, while the canyon mouth beckons with promises of higher adventures and hidden mountain lakes like nearby Groves Lake.

Natural Features and SceneryBig Creek runs through the campground, supporting water birch, cottonwood, and Russian olive in contrast to the surrounding high desert. The creek corridor creates a narrow green zone where the geology shifts from valley floor to the western Toiyabe Range. Kingston Canyon cuts into the mountains just beyond camp, with Groves Lake visible higher up. The open terrain means wide views of the range, but also means limited shade and screening between sites. Reviewers mention good natural lighting on the canyon walls, especially morning and evening.

Geological RegionBig Creek Campground sits at a fascinating geological crossroads where the western flanks of the Toiyabe Range meet the valley floor. This prime location at Kingston Canyon's mouth tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient geological forces carved deep canyons and lifted mighty peaks. The creek has patiently sculpted its own microenvironment here, creating a lush corridor of water birch, cottonwood, and Russian olive that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding high desert terrain. Just beyond camp, Groves Lake waits like a sapphire jewel set high in the range, a testament to the geological wonders that make this region so captivating.

Scenic ViewsStreamside views are common across many campsites, with user reviews highlighting beautiful lighting on surrounding mountains and the serene, natural environment.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations are mentioned for this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open 24 hours/day

Check-out

Open 24 hours/day

Stay Limit

14 days

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe 8 sites spread along Big Creek in a fairly open layout with sparse vegetation. Sites are level and can fit travel trailers, but the lack of screening means limited privacy between neighbors.

Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not required.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest that campsites are generally available even on holiday weekends, with options for boondocking nearby.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable; the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

AccessibilityHigh-clearance vehicles are recommended for access due to rough road conditions. No specific features for accessibility for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.

Site SizeSites are described as relatively open and suitable for travel trailers.

PrivacySites lack big vegetation and are fairly open, providing limited privacy.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose creekside sites for proximity to water and better scenery. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing the campground.

Best CampsitesStreamside sites get the most praise in reviews for their proximity to running water and the quiet canyon setting. These sites also offer the best access for fishing and gold panning in the creek.

Amenities available

Big Creek Campground offers an array of basic amenities suitable for campers seeking a peaceful and natural environment. Restrooms are available, specifically two vault toilets as per both user reviews and authoritative content, which are described as "located at the front and rear of the campground." However, potable water is not available on-site, so visitors should bring their own supplies. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, as confirmed by official sources. Fire rings and a dump station are not mentioned, and showers are also not provided. Cell phone service is reportedly unavailable at the campground itself, but reception can be found just a few miles west of the site according to user Gary Baker. Firewood availability is also not mentioned, and there is no Wi-Fi at the site. Accessibility features are not detailed, but the site is described as having high-clearance vehicle access due to road conditions. Sites are relatively open and lack privacy, making them ideal for trailers. There are no electricity, water, or sewer hookups for RVs, and pets are welcome but must be leashed as per camping regulations.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Big Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy access to day hikes, backpacking trails, fishing, and OHV road riding. Biking opportunities include both road cycling and mountain biking. The presence of a creek running through the campground makes it a popular fishing spot, with reports of large rainbow trout. Wildlife viewing is implicitly part of the experience, as the site is surrounded by natural vegetation and a canyon setting.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad conditions may deteriorate after rain, especially the gravel section. Wildlife, including predators like bears, may pose potential risks.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies stated; campers should adhere to standard safety procedures.

Emergency ServicesAustin-Tonopah Ranger District's Austin Office, 100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV, Phone: 775-964-2671. Closest hospital or major emergency services are in Austin.

Water FeaturesThe campground is directly adjacent to a creek, and Groves Lake is located nearby.

Cell CoverageCell reception is not available at the campground but can be found a few miles west of the site.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

33 reviews

Satisfactory

Big Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, reviews of Big Creek Campground are positive, highlighting its natural beauty, quietness, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Common themes include the peaceful canyon setting, the creek running through the campground, and its suitability for both RV and tent camping.

Review Summaries

Based on 33 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praise the campground for being 'quiet, clean, and in the canyon,' its proximity to a creek with 'running water,' and the natural lighting on the surrounding mountains. Fishing and OHV...

Based on 33 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers note that the road to the campground requires high-clearance vehicles, and there is occasional confusion due to a lack of signage. Littering, particularly cigarette butts, has been...

Based on 33 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most campsites are creekside and described as quiet and clean. The exact site numbers are not mentioned, but users mention the availability of about 6-10 campsites.

Based on 33 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring plenty of water as there is no potable water on-site. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for easier access. Visitors interested in fishing or gold panning may find...

Based on 33 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground seems less crowded on weekdays and off-peak seasons. Summer is highlighted for its warm days and cool nights, while Labor Day weekend is noted for its manageable crowds. Seasonal...

Based on 33 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Campground is 5.5 miles off Hwy 50, on a good gravel road. Most campsites are creekside.' - Caren Teg 2. 'We stayed in our motorhome there for 6 days... couldn't believe these fish were two feet...

Based on 33 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited due to the need for high-clearance vehicles to navigate the road conditions.

Based on 33 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No specific pet-related facilities are mentioned.

Based on 33 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers and OHV riders who pack their own water will get the most out of this place. A reviewer pulled a 6 lb rainbow trout from Big Creek, and OHV trails run right from camp. Eight sites means quiet nights even in July.

Skip if

Trailers can't cross the top of Forest Service Road 002, so if you're hauling one, this trip ends early. No potable water, no hookups, and a rough gravel road that deteriorates in rain also rules out anyone without a high-clearance rig.

Nearby Campgrounds

100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310

Kingston Campground sits at 7,100 feet in Peavine Canyon on the southeastern slopes of the Toiyabe Mountain Range. The 10 primitive sites spread along Kingston Creek offer vault toilets and picnic tables. Access roads are narrow. Smaller vehicles and tent campers fare best here.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310

Bob Scott Campground sits at 7,300 feet on Highway 50 in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, offering 10 first-come, first-served sites among pinyon pines and juniper. The campground costs $10 per night and operates mid-May through mid-October. Campers appreciate the quiet setting and dark skies, though road noise reaches southern sites and there's no potable water onsite.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Less Visited

0.0

(3)

San Juan Dispersed Campground

: null

This dispersed camping area sits at 7,507 feet in Nevada's basin and range country near Austin. One primitive site offers open views across the canyon and access to the Toiyabe Crest Trail. The setup is bare-bones: bring your own water and expect no restroom facilities.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

3.8

(18)

Toquima Cave Campground

100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310

Toquima Cave Campground sits at 7,900 feet in the Toquima Range, a sky island ecosystem within Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Two primitive sites offer access to ancient Shoshone pictographs painted between 600-1300 CE. The campground is free, remote, and often empty. Reviewers warn that spaces are tight for full-size trucks, and vault toilets need repairs.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

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Peavine Creek Campground, Monitor Valley, Nevada

Peavine Creek Campground sits along the eastern flank of the Toquima Range at 6,260 feet, where Monitor Valley meets a cottonwood-lined creek canyon. The campground is remote and primitive. Vault toilets and picnic tables, no water, no fees. Access requires navigating rough single-lane dirt roads that keep visitor numbers low and solitude high.

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Mill Creek Campground

Tucked into a serene riparian canyon at over 5,000 feet, Mill Creek Campground offers a rare gem of a camping experience—completely free and wonderfully peaceful. Picture yourself falling asleep to the gentle babble of year-round Mill Creek, waking to birdsong in the cottonwoods, and spending evenings beneath some of Nevada's darkest, most star-filled skies.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campgrounds

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Big Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Big Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

Access to Kingston Canyon and Groves Lake.  High clearance vehicle needed.Surrounded by water birch, cottonwood, and Russian olive trees at the mouth of a canyon along a creek. Stream runs through the campground.Currently, road access needs repairs!  High clearance vehicles only 2021

Open Season: Mid-May – Late October