Kingston Campground
4.3819 reviews100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310
Kingston Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required to camp at Kingston Campground. This includes all sites and amenities.
About this campground
Escape to Kingston Campground, where adventure meets serenity in the heart of Peavine Canyon. This hidden gem offers free primitive camping beneath the towering Toiyabe Mountain Range, where the soothing sounds of Kingston Creek provide a natural soundtrack to your wilderness experience. With essential amenities including vault toilets and picnic tables, you'll find the perfect balance between rugged outdoor living and basic comfort. Cast your line into Kingston Creek's pristine waters, where fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in this high desert oasis.
Kingston Campground offers primitive camping options with no fees. It is suited for tent camping, small RVs, and group campers.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and explore the remnants of Nevada's mining heritage scattered throughout the surrounding hills. The Victorian, Horton, Klondike, and Bi-Metallic Mines stand as silent sentinels to a bygone era, drawing history buffs and curious explorers alike. These abandoned mining sites offer fascinating glimpses into the dreams and determination of prospectors who once sought their fortunes in these rugged mountains, creating perfect day-trip adventures for those seeking to connect with the Old West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the high desert at Kingston Campground, open from mid-May through late October when wildflowers bloom and warm days give way to cool, starlit nights. As autumn approaches, golden aspens paint the landscape before winter's arrival brings snow and freezing temperatures, transforming this summer paradise into a winter wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid adventurers.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,100 feet above sea level, Kingston Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat while providing breathtaking panoramic views. This elevated paradise places you among the clouds, where crisp mountain air invigorates your senses and the high desert terrain stretches endlessly before you, creating an otherworldly camping experience that feels miles away from civilization.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of Kingston Campground, where Kingston Creek winds through ancient cottonwoods and the majestic Toiyabe Mountain Range creates a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventures. The high desert landscape reveals its subtle beauty through sagebrush-covered hills, wildflower meadows, and distant vistas that stretch to the horizon. A short journey leads to the pristine waters of Groves Lake, while Peavine Canyon's rugged walls shelter diverse wildlife and offer endless exploration opportunities for hikers and nature photographers.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic confines of Peavine Canyon along the southeastern flanks of the mighty Toiyabe Mountain Range, Kingston Campground showcases the raw geological beauty of Nevada's high desert. Here, Kingston Creek has carved its path through millennia, creating a riparian oasis amidst the sagebrush sea. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone—ancient volcanic activity, tectonic forces, and erosion have sculpted this remarkable terrain into a geological wonderland that captivates visitors with its stark beauty and diverse formations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsite sizes vary depending on the layout and natural terrain.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are spread apart providing some privacy, with vegetation separating sites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites vary in size but are spaced well apart for privacy. Sites close to the creek may offer more scenic views, while group sites are available for larger parties.
Best CampsitesCampsite #1 at the entrance was highly praised for its proximity to the creek, clean fire pit, and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
14 days maximum per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are not specified.
Groups
The group site is available and free, as mentioned in user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 10 sites spread across a natural, high desert terrain.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from mid-May to late October, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance at Kingston Campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityKingston Campground operates exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis, according to both official sources and user reviews.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of activities is available at Kingston Campground, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The nearby Toiyabe Crest Trail and Groves Lake offer additional recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The campground is near the northernmost trailhead for the Toiyabe Crest National Recreation Trail, which provides opportunities for day hikes and backpacking. User reviews also mention trails leading to abandoned mines in the area.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at both Peavine Creek and Groves Lake, which is a short drive from the campground.Biking
Mountain and road cycling are listed as activities in the area.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed, especially at Groves Lake, which is popular among campers.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are listed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible at Groves Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits, according to user reviews.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include narrow dirt roads and bridges that may pose challenges for larger vehicles. Wildlife such as bears and mountain lions are present in the area.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Austin-Tonopah Ranger District's Austin Office is the closest resource for emergency services. The address is 100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310. Phone: 775-964-2671.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season occurs during summer months, with availability dependent on weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash service available at the campground. Campers are required to pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresKingston Creek flows adjacent to the campground, and Groves Lake is located five minutes west, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsReviews mention overgrown grass, bugs, and lack of potable water as recurring concerns. 'Grass was knee-high everywhere' and 'bring your own TP' are typical remarks.
Campground Map
100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310
Driving directionsFrom Austin, follow US 50 East to State Route 376 South for 16 miles to the turnoff-campground sign. The campground is five miles west of the State Route 376 turnoff.
Road access includes a narrow dirt road with a small wooden bridge at the campground entrance. Some reviews mention the bridge is too narrow for large RVs or trailers, while others state a Class A motorhome had no issues crossing it.Nearby places
Austin is located approximately 21 miles away and serves as the nearest population center.
Nearby supplies
The town of Kingston, located approximately 10 minutes away, has a small general store with limited supplies like food, ice, beverages, and camping items. Additional services, including groceries and fuel, may require traveling to Austin.
Camper Reviews
4.4
19 reviews
Kingston Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kingston Campground are mixed, with some campers appreciating its secluded and serene environment, while others report maintenance issues like overgrown grass and road accessibility challenges. Positive highlights include its proximity to Groves Lake and historical mines, while complaints focus on the narrow access roads and lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the natural beauty, clean vault toilets, and the peaceful environment. Proximity to hiking trails, Groves Lake, and historical mines is also highlighted.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include overgrown grass, narrow roads, and an unsuitable bridge for large RVs. Lack of potable water and trash service were also noted.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, being prepared for narrow roads, and packing out all trash. The area is ideal for tent camping and smaller vehicles.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Autumn reviews describe the area as peaceful with clean facilities, while summer reviews mention overgrown vegetation and bugs.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful, hidden gem of a campground. Almost had the whole place to ourselves!' - Chris Darrough, May 2017
2. 'Vault toilets were immaculately clean during our visit. Props to BLM for that.' -...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 was highlighted as spacious and peaceful. Sites near the creek are favored for their scenery.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. No specific user experiences with pets were mentioned.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025