Lye Creek Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates June through October as weather and snow conditions allow. Water systems are not operational for the 2025 season; campers must bring all water needed including drinking water.

About

Lye Creek Campground is located in the Santa Rosa Mountain Range approximately 60 miles north of Winnemucca, Nevada, within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The campground is nestled in a scenic grove of aspen trees along Lye Creek, offering a peaceful mountain setting at high elevation. The facility includes 14 camping sites consisting of 10 single sites, four double sites, and one group site, all equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and BBQ pedestals. The campground serves as a base for various outdoor activities including river and stream fishing in Lye Creek, mountain biking, day hiking, backpacking, and off-highway vehicle riding on surrounding roads and trails. The Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak Wilderness is nearby but not directly accessible from the campground. Access requires navigating steep, winding single-lane roads with periodic pull-outs from Winnemucca, either via State Route 290 through Paradise Valley or via Canyon Creek Road from Highway 95. This first-come, first-served campground operates seasonally and sees light usage. Vault toilets are provided, and leashed dogs are welcome. Stock animals are not permitted within the campground. The remote location and mountain setting make it an attractive destination for those seeking solitude and access to the Santa Rosa Range.

Directions

From Winnemucca, take U.S. Highway 95 north for 22 miles to State Route 290, then north on SR-290 for 18 miles to Paradise Valley. Continue 16 miles north on SR-792 toward Hinkey Summit. The road becomes gravel; continue two more miles to the campground. Alternative route: From Highway 95, turn east on Canyon Creek Road (Forest Road 084), marked as Buckskin Canyon between Orovada and McDermitt. Both routes are steep, winding single-lane roads with periodic pull-outs.

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