Nevada / White Pine County / Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Bird Creek Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Operates from late May to mid-October, weather and conditions permitting. Water is not available during the 2025 camping season due to a water outage; campers must bring all water including drinking water.

About

Bird Creek Campground is situated in the Duck Creek Basin, high on the Schell Creek Range of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest at an elevation of 8,200 feet. Located approximately 25 miles from the small city of Ely, Nevada, the campground offers 10 sites including single unit sites, double unit sites, one multi-family site, and one day-use group site. Bird Creek flows perennially through the campground, and the area is covered by a mixed forest of juniper, pinyon pine, and alder trees, though shade is limited. The campground serves as a gateway to excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. The Ranger Trail, accessible directly from the campground, is a designated OHV trail that also accommodates hiking and mountain biking use. The 30-mile Success Loop Scenic Drive is nearby, offering views of high desert and mountain terrain. River and stream fishing is available in Bird Creek, and the surrounding area provides opportunities for day hiking and off-highway vehicle riding. Nearby attractions include Cave Lake State Park and Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park, both a few miles from Ely. The historic stone ovens at Ward Charcoal Ovens feature an interpretive trail. The Northern Nevada Railway in Ely offers a museum and train rides for those interested in the area's history.

Directions

From Ely, travel north on Highway 93 to the town of McGill. From McGill, continue north on Highway 93 for 5 miles to the Duck Creek Basin turnoff. Proceed east on Duck Creek Basin Road and turn left at the sign for Bird Creek Recreation Area.

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