River Camp

Open — Open year-round for camping. Reservations are available through the Nevada State Parks system.

About

River Camp serves as the primary campground at Fort Churchill State Historic Park, an integral part of Nevada and American West history. Built in 1860, Fort Churchill protected early settlers, guarded the Pony Express and telegraph lines, and played a crucial role during Nevada's territorial period. The campground features 20 sites nestled among large cottonwood trees along the Carson River, providing natural shade and a scenic setting. Each campsite includes a table, fire ring, and charcoal grill, accommodating tents, travel trailers, and motorhomes up to 30 feet. The park offers diverse recreational opportunities including catch-and-release fishing for walleye, white bass, catfish, and trout, as well as hiking along the 2.2-mile Nature Trail that connects Buckland Station to Fort Churchill. Visitors can explore the preserved fort ruins on designated trails, visit the Buckland Station museum (open weekends), and enjoy birdwatching and canoeing along the Carson River. At 4,250 feet elevation with the Carson River as the only perennial water source and the Pine Nut Range to the south, the park sits in a transition zone between high desert and riparian habitat.

Directions

Located on Highway 95A, approximately 8 miles south of Silver Springs, Nevada. The campground entrance is within Fort Churchill State Historic Park.

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