Jarbidge Campgrounds

There aren’t many chances to get this far off the highway, and with a tire or two inside the spectacular Jarbidge Wilderness Area, making this off-the-grid trek will be a total no-brainer from here on out. One of the most remote wilderness areas in the Lower 48 beckons outdoorsmen of all kinds to stake out for the week at the Jarbidge Campgrounds, where you can settle into established or primitive sites and get to know this spectacular countryside for free. While this may look like a blank spot on the map it couldn’t be more opposite, brimming with hundreds of miles of hiking and off-roading trails, 40 different types of wildflower blooms, trout-packed streams and lakes, Nevada’s big game animals, all within access of historic Jarbidge—one of our fave “living” ghost towns in the state.

The official Jarbidge Campgrounds begin about 4 miles south of Jarbidge, though there is primitive dispersed camping found throughout the canyon. All camping—both established and dispersed—are available on a first come, first served basis with no reservation system in place. This is the type of countryside that is best for tents and truck camping, though there is one pull through space that accommodates up to 25 feet of trailer space. Established campgrounds are equipped with picnic tables, a fire ring and in some cases a barbecue, access to restrooms with pit toilets, along with ample parking and tent space.

Established campgrounds can be found at Pine Creek Campground, Sawmill Campground, and Slide Creek Campground. Primitive spots are located at the Hummingbird Trailhead, Marys River Trailhead, Lower Bluster Campground, Pavlak Campground, Slide Creek Trailhead, Three Creek Trailhead, and Upper Bluster Campground.

Know Before You Go

When traveling Nevada backroads, be sure to live by the Dirt Road Code and travel with 4×4 capability and a full size spare tire. Carry plenty of snacks and water, be sure to let someone know where you’re headed and when you plan to return, and practice Leave No Trace methods whenever possible.