37
Total Campsites
Campground
18
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND
Overview South Ruby Campground is situated above Ruby Lake at the base of the beautiful Ruby Mountains at 6,000 feet in elevation, near the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Ruby Valley, Nevada. Ruby Valley is a surprising wildlife oasis. An expansive marsh is laced with riparian corridors coursing with cool, spring-fed waters. Together with lush meadow and shrub-steppe uplands, these habitats support a diversity of wildlife seldom found in the high desert and is one of the most important waterfowl nesting areas in the region. The refuge is either home or a stopover location for over 220 species of birds. Of specific interest are canvasback ducks, trumpeter swans, greater sandhill cranes and sage grouse. Mule deer and pronghorn antelope can also be found in the area. Recreation Ruby Lake is visible from the campground and offers excellent birding, fishing and hiking. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass and several species of trout. The Ruby Lake NWR headquarters is two miles north of the campground and offers visitor information. The campground is located on the Hastings Cutoff route, near the Pony Express Trail and historic ruins of Fort Ruby. An interpretive trail was recently constructed at Fort Ruby historic site and provides insight on local history as well as spectacular views of the southern Ruby Mountains, uninterrupted by development. The southern trailhead for the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail at Green Mountain Traihead is located within reasonable driving distance from the campground. Many dirt and gravel roads begin at Harrison Pass (just north of the refuge), and Overland Pass (south of the area), and provide enjoyable routes for jeeps, off-road motorcycles, OHVs, and mountain bikes. Facilities Ruby Lake is visible from the campground and offers excellent birding, fishing and hiking. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass and several species of trout. The Ruby Lake NWR headquarters is two miles north of the campground and offers visitor information. The campground is located on the Hastings Cutoff route, near the Pony Express Trail and historic ruins of Fort Ruby. An interpretive trail was recently constructed at Fort Ruby historic site and provides insight on local history as well as spectacular views of the southern Ruby Mountains, uninterrupted by development. The southern trailhead for the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail at Green Mountain Traihead is located within reasonable driving distance from the campground. Many dirt and gravel roads begin at Harrison Pass (just north of the refuge), and Overland Pass (south of the area), and provide enjoyable routes for jeeps, off-road motorcycles, OHVs, and mountain bikes. Natural Features The campground is situated above Ruby Lake, at an elevation of 6,000 feet. A forest of pinyon pine and juniper covers the area. The trees provide good privacy between campsites, but limited shade.
- 37 total campsites listed.
- 18 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: rv nonelectric (19).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND special
Perched at 6,000 feet above Ruby Lake at the base of Nevada's Ruby Mountains, South Ruby Campground is a hidden gem in a state better known for desert than alpine scenery. The 37 sites sit in an open, arid landscape softened by stands of cottonwood and willow near the water, with the dramatic east face of the Ruby Range towering above like a miniature Sierra Nevada. The contrast between the vast Great Basin desert and this lush mountain oasis is striking and unexpected. The adjacent Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important wetland habitats in the Great Basin, drawing birders from around the country. Canvasback ducks, trumpeter swans, and over 200 other bird species have been recorded here. Fishing for largemouth bass and rainbow trout in the lake provides another draw, and the surrounding Ruby Mountains offer rugged hiking trails that climb through aspen groves to alpine cirques and glacial lakes. The campground near Wells, Nevada is relatively uncrowded even in peak season, a rarity for a place this scenic. Sites accommodate tents and RVs, though services are basic and self-sufficient preparation is wise. The best camping window runs from late May through September, with summer days that are warm and dry and nights that carry a high-desert chill. Come prepared for wind, bring binoculars, and expect to have much of this remarkable landscape largely to yourself.
Campsite Inventory
37 sites to choose from
RV NONELECTRIC
10
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
8
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Double, Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Gravel
Max guests
16, 8
Max vehicle length (ft)
25, 30, 35, 40
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Shade
Full, Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
775-752-3357
Getting There
Take Interstate 80 to Highway 93. Exit at Wells and follow Highway 93 south for 30 miles to State Route 229. Follow State Route 229 for 15 miles, then head south on State Route 767 and County Road 788 for 30 miles, to the campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND?
SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND currently lists RV NONELECTRIC (19), STANDARD NONELECTRIC (16), MANAGEMENT (2).
Where is SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND located?
SOUTH RUBY CAMPGROUND is in Nevada near WELLS. Coordinates: 40.1747, -115.5003.
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