How much does camping cost at South Ruby Campground?

Camping fees at South Ruby Campground are $17 - $34/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is South Ruby Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

South Ruby Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at South Ruby Campground before I book?

Yes! South Ruby Campground has 8 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 South Ruby Campground?

South Ruby Campground is open May 06 to September 25. 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 South Ruby Campground?

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

How many campsites does South Ruby Campground have?

South Ruby Campground has 35 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at South Ruby Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at South Ruby 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 South Ruby Campground?

South Ruby Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at South Ruby Campground?

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

South Ruby Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at South Ruby Campground?

Fire policies at South Ruby Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.42

96 reviews

140 PACIFIC AVENUE, WELLS, NV, 89835, USA

C+Report Card

Tent Camping

Featured in:Fishing Camping Nevada#3 Spring Camping Nevada Mountain Camping Nevada +10 more

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$17 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

The lower loop of th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$17 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

The lower loop of th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

South Ruby Campground

$17.00 - $34.00 / night

Campsite Fees

DBL - STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $34.00; RV NONELECTRIC: $17.00; S&P Double: $34.00; S&P Standard: $17.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $17.00. Plus...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

775-752-3357

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

140 PACIFIC AVENUE, WELLS, NV, 89835, USA

South Ruby Campground

140 PACIFIC AVENUE, WELLS, NV, 89835, USA

Nearby places

Wells: 75 miles

Elko: approximately 110 miles

Ely: approximately 100 miles.

Weather at South Ruby Campground

Current alerts(5)

A $6 fee for extra vehicles will be collected at the campground
Campgrounds are generally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day for reservations on rec.gov . However, things can change based on weather and other emergency situations, please contact the Ranger station for the most up-to-date information.
Click here for more information on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Limited supplies are available 11 miles north of the campground

Best Time to Camp at South Ruby Campground

Best season: fall. Fall delivers crisp, comfortable weather (daytime highs commonly 55–75°F in September, nights cooling into the 30s–40s) and spectacular light on the Ruby Mountains, making photography, hiking, and birdwatching exceptional. Migrating waterfowl and shorebirds concentrate in the marshes and along Ruby Lake, while fishing and boating are excellent as insect activity drops and water clarity improves. Visitor numbers fall after the summer holiday weeks, so you get quieter campsites and trailheads but仍 Peak months: September, June, May, August Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring reviews positive (signal=1.00); pleasant weather and good wildlife activity.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 06 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The lower loop of the campground typically remains open all winter, but may be closed depending on local conditions. Please call the local office for further information. Off season camping is first come first serve with a reduced fee without water available; only campsites, picnic tables, fire rings and vault toilets offered at that time.

About South Ruby Campground

South Ruby Campground sits in the mid-elevation forest of Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Wells, Nevada, with direct access to Ruby Lake and the Ruby Mountains. Operated by the Forest Service, this campground draws anglers, birders, and hikers seeking a remote base for exploring one of Nevada's most scenic wildlife refuges. Sites accommodate tents and RVs, with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables, though campsites lack privacy and supplies require a drive.

South Ruby Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The campground also offers a double site and one accessible site.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers crisp, comfortable weather (daytime highs commonly 55–75°F in September, nights cooling into the 30s–40s) and spectacular light on the Ruby Mountains, making photography, hiking, and birdwatching exceptional. Migrating waterfowl and shorebirds concentrate in the marshes and along Ruby Lake, while fishing and boating are excellent as insect activity drops and water clarity improves. Visitor numbers fall after the summer holiday weeks, so you get quieter campsites and trailheads but仍 Peak months: September, June, May, August Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation6000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryRuby Valley cuts through the Great Basin as a rare wetland corridor, with extensive marshlands and riparian zones backed by the Ruby Mountains. Pinyon pines and Utah junipers provide natural screening between sites, though spacing varies. The Ruby Mountains catch dramatic light at dawn and dusk, shifting from purple shadows to fiery alpenglow. The marshes and lake below create one of Nevada's most important wetland ecosystems, concentrating waterfowl and shorebirds during migration. At 6,000 feet, the high-desert air stays clear for photography and stargazing.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations available at the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesFort Ruby offers an interpretive trail that provides historical insights and spectacular views of the Ruby Mountains. This trail highlights the area's significance in the Pony Express Trail and local history.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground includes one accessible site, and the facilities are generally well-maintained. Specific accessibility features beyond the accessible site are not detailed in the source.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as being adequately sized, with some specific sites noted for their spaciousness. For example, site #22 is described as 'a nice big spot, had plenty of room for our giant tent.

PrivacyThe sites are somewhat private, with natural tree barriers providing separation between most sites. However, some reviews mention that the sites feel close together or have limited privacy.

Total Campsites35 campsites

Recommended SitesThe upper loop is recommended for more shade, while the lower loop provides easier winter access. Campsite #22 is highlighted for its size and proximity to amenities.

Best CampsitesSite #22 gets mentioned for its size. One reviewer noted it fit a giant tent with room to spare. Site #13 offers good valley views. The upper loop has more shade from pines and junipers.

Need help booking South Ruby Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

South Ruby Campground offers a variety of essential amenities to ensure a comfortable camping experience. The campground has 33 single sites, one double site, and one accessible site equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Seasonal amenities include vault toilets and drinking water, which are available from early May to late September. During the off-season, the lower loop of the campground remains open with reduced amenities, including vault toilets and basic campsite facilities. A fish cleaning station, a trolling motor charging station, and firewood are also available for a fee. There is no garbage service provided, and campers are required to pack out their own trash. Shade is somewhat limited due to the natural features, but the forest of pinyon pine and juniper provides partial coverage. Cell service is limited, and AT&T appears to be the only reliable option based on user reviews.

Potable water

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at South Ruby Campground

South Ruby Campground is an excellent destination for outdoor recreation, offering a mix of activities such as birding, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides unique opportunities for bird enthusiasts, with over 220 bird species in the area. Jeeping, off-road vehicles, and mountain biking are also popular, with accessible dirt and gravel roads nearby. Historical exploration is another highlight, with nearby Fort Ruby and the Pony Express Trail offering interpretive trails and insights into local history.

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 1% in Nevada

Hiking4.0/5

Direct access to southern trailhead of the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail; abundant hiking opportunities.

Fishing4.0/5

Boating3.0/5

Boating is available but details on boat types/docking are limited.

Winter Activities2.0/5

Lower loop may remain open in winter; snow possible but limited winter-sport infrastructure.

Water Sports2.0/5

Boating possible on marshy lake; kayaking feasible but not highlighted as a draw.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Spectacular light on the Ruby Mountains at dawn/dusk plus wildlife and wetlands for subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the campground. Only vault toilets are provided.

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 PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

Trash & RecyclingNo garbage service is available at the campground. Campers must pack out their trash. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is minimal to non-existent at the campground. User reviews mention that AT&T provides some coverage, but other carriers, such as Verizon, do not have reception.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

96 reviews

Recommended

South Ruby Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of South Ruby Campground are generally positive, with highlights on cleanliness, the friendly camp hosts, and the excellent location for birding and fishing. Many reviewers appreciate the peace and quiet of the campground, though concerns include limited cell service, the remoteness of the location, and occasional issues with site reservations.

Review Summaries

Based on 96 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 96 reviews.

Site #22Loved
Site #22 is highlighted for its spaciousness, while site #13 is noted for flooding issues during heavy rain.
Site #18Issues noted
Site #18 had issues with overbooking, as noted by reviewers Alex L. and Jerry N.

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the beautiful natural setting, and the proximity to activities such as fishing and wildlife viewing. One user stated, 'The vault toilets...

Based on 96 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the remoteness and lack of nearby services, issues with site reservations not being honored, and the occasional overuse of sites leading to cleanliness issues. A reviewer...

Based on 96 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all necessary supplies due to the remoteness. Use mosquito repellent, especially in early summer. Campers are advised to check site reservation details carefully due to past issues.

Based on 96 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often highlight the abundance of mosquitoes, while late spring and early fall are noted for their comfortable weather. Winter visitors appreciate the peace and solitude but must...

Based on 96 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Lance (camp manager) keeps the place pristine. The whole time I saw him there he was picking up trash, cleaning bathrooms, etc.' - DipsterHam - 'We love South Ruby Campground, but these were a...

Based on 96 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground features one accessible site. However, further details on accessibility are limited.

Based on 96 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews about pet-related experiences are provided.

Based on 96 reviews

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South Ruby Campground

$17.00 - $34.00 / night

Campsite Fees

DBL - STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $34.00; RV NONELECTRIC: $17.00; S&P Double: $34.00; S&P Standard: $17.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $17.00. Plus...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00