Upper Bird Creek
Open

Open seasonally from end of May through mid-October, weather and conditions permitting. Water systems are not yet operational for the season; campers should bring all drinking water needed. Some sites are reservable through Recreation.gov; remaining sites are first-come, first-served.

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 12:13AM PDT by NWS Elko NV

12:13 AM — 5:00 PM

ESFLKN A low pressure system over the Pacific Northwest will drop southward into Northern California Sunday. This storm system will draw abundant atmospheric moisture associated with Tropical Storm Rachel northward into Eastern Nevada, resulting in the likelihood of rain Sunday and Sunday night. Slow storm motions and/or training cells may produce heavy rainfall and localized flooding. Of particular concern are recent, large burn scars, including the Ward fire south of Ely and the Oxley fire north of Wells. Numerous smaller burn scare from this fire season also remain vulnerable to flash flooding and debris flow. Residents near burn scars should have multiple ways to receive Flash Flood Warning and be prepared to act quickly. Travelers and recreationists should also remain alert and consider alternate plans.

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 8 at 1:46PM PDT by NWS Elko NV

October 8th, 1:46 PM — 5:30 AM

ESFLKN A low pressure system over the Pacific Northwest will drop southward into Northern California Sunday. This storm system will draw abundant atmospheric moisture associated with Tropical Storm Rachel northward into Eastern Nevada, resulting in the likelihood of rain Sunday and Sunday night. Slow storm motions and/or training cells may produce heavy rainfall and localized flooding. Of particular concern are recent, large burn scars, including the Ward fire south of Ely and the Oxley fire north of Wells. Numerous smaller burn scare from this fire season also remain vulnerable to flash flooding and debris flow. Residents near burn scars should have multiple ways to receive Flash Flood Warning and be prepared to act quickly. Travelers and recreationists should also remain alert and consider alternate plans.

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.

About

Bird Creek Campground is a forested retreat in the Duck Creek Basin, perched at 8,200 feet on the Schell Creek Range within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Bird Creek flows perennially through the campground, bordered by a mixed forest of juniper, pinyon pine, and alder that provides limited shade. The campground is approximately 25 miles from Ely. The campground has 10 sites: five single-unit sites, two double-unit walk-in sites, one multi-family site, and one group site for day-use only. All sites include picnic tables, campfire rings, and BBQ pedestals. Vault toilets and seasonal drinking water are available, though campers must pack out all trash. The Ranger Trail, a designated OHV route that also accommodates hiking and mountain biking, is accessible directly from the campground. The 30-mile Success Loop Scenic Drive offers views of high desert and mountain terrain. Nearby attractions include Cave Lake State Park, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park with its historic stone ovens and interpretive trail, and the Northern Nevada Railway in Ely.

Directions

From Ely, take Highway 93 north to McGill. Continue north on Highway 93 approximately 3-5 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.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station —
Wifi —
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers —
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store —
Price $15 - $60

Vehicle

Max RV Length 40ft
Max Trailer Length 40ft
Big Rig Friendly —
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (775) 289-3031

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

Upper Bird Creek
Vault toilets available onsite
Group Site A
Campground amenities
View of the Schellcreek Range from the campground

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