Pine Creek Campground
4.276 reviews1400 S. Erie Main Street, Tonopah, NV 89049
Pine Creek 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 for this site.
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering waters of Pine Creek, this tranquil campground offers sites on both banks where the gentle sounds of flowing water accompany your stay. Here, solitude seekers find their paradise while wildlife enthusiasts discover a natural theater where deer, birds, and small mammals make regular appearances. The campground serves as your gateway to the pristine Alta Toquima Wilderness, where adventure begins just beyond your tent flap.
Pine Creek Campground provides opportunities for tent camping and group camping. It is not suitable for large RVs or equestrian camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia as you climb the ancient stone steps leading to a remarkable rock shelter, where Native American pictographs tell stories painted across time. These sacred markings stand as testament to the indigenous peoples who first recognized this creek valley as a special place, adding layers of cultural richness to your camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather at Pine Creek, where winter's crystalline snowfall transforms the landscape into a wonderland before giving way to wildflower-dotted springs. Summer brings warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation, while autumn paints the aspens in brilliant gold. Late spring through early fall presents ideal camping conditions, with comfortable temperatures and nature at its most vibrant.
ElevationPerched at 7,600 feet above sea level, Pine Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat below. This elevation creates a perfect microclimate where mountain breezes keep summer temperatures comfortable and the air carries that crisp, pine-scented clarity that only comes with altitude. Here, you'll experience the best of both worlds: accessible camping with a genuine semi-wilderness atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry unfolds around Pine Creek Campground, where towering aspens create cathedral-like canopies overhead while gnarled junipers and aromatic piñon pines dot the hillsides. Wild roses add splashes of color and delicate fragrance throughout the growing season. The star of the show remains Pine Creek itself, whose year-round waters create a ribbon of life through this high desert oasis, supporting the diverse ecosystem that makes this campground so special.
Geological RegionTucked within the expansive Toiyabe National Forest and bordering the untamed Alta Toquima Wilderness, Pine Creek Campground sits at the intersection of accessibility and wild beauty. This unique position places you among a diverse botanical community where aspens whisper secrets to ancient junipers and piñon pines, while wild roses perfume the air. Pine Creek's perpetual flow has carved this mountain sanctuary over countless years, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring one of Nevada's most spectacular forest regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeMost of the sites are relatively shallow (20’ or less), slightly overgrown, and with variable slopes ranging upwards of 5 degrees. Tree overhang could be a problem for RVs taller than 11’.
Sites PrivacySites are scattered along Pine Creek and offer a rustic experience surrounded by trees and nature. Some sites may feel somewhat secluded due to the vegetation.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers prefer this site due to its layout and proximity to Pine Creek.
Best Campsites"Most of the sites are relatively shallow (20' or less), slightly overgrown, and with variable slopes."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day
Stay Limit
14 nights
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground layout is a traditional loop design. The east end of the loop requires crossing the creek via a low-water bridge.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June - October, as weather and conditions allow.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability only; reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Creek Campground is well-suited for remote backcountry activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It offers access to trails in the Alta Toquima Wilderness and provides opportunities for anglers to catch Rainbow and Brook trout.
Hiking
The campground features Pine Creek Trail, a half-mile foot and horse trail that provides access to deeper reaches of the Alta Toquima Wilderness. According to user reviews, "there is a trail that takes you back into wilderness right from the campground" and "the trails on the backside are in ROUGH shape but we managed to power through and see the sheep at the top with the beautiful view."Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Pine Creek. Anglers can catch Rainbow and Brook trout in the stream flowing through the campground.Wildlife viewing
Surrounded by 11,000 ft mountains and wilderness, Pine Creek Campground offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. User reviews mention spotting sheep at Jefferson Peak.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not applicable.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; abundant wood is available around campsites.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad conditions present challenges for RVs longer than 30 feet. No potable water, so campers must bring their own.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 Tonopah Office, 1400 S. Erie Main Street, Tonopah, NV 89049. Phone: 775-482-6286.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 through October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned. Users might need to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresPine Creek flows through the campground, enhancing its ambiance.
Common complaints"Tree overhang could be a problem for RVs taller than 11'." Sites are slightly overgrown, and slopes range upwards of 5 degrees.
Campground Map
1400 S. Erie Main Street, Tonopah, NV 89049
Driving directionsIn Tonopah, NV, at intersection of US Rt. 6 and US Rt. 95, take Rt. 6 east 5.4 miles to State Rt. 376. Turn left onto Rt. 376 north and go 13.3 miles to Belmont sign. Turn right at sign and go 46.3 miles to Pine Creek sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.9 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right and go 2.5 miles on a rough, dirt road to campground. NOTE: The last 22.1 miles are gravel and dirt.
"Monitor Road (SH82) was in great shape, well maintained with no washboarding." However, the campground road experiences "noticeable decay." Some sections are challenging for long-wheelbase RVs, with limited space for vehicles over 30'.Nearby places
Approximately 4 miles south of the town of Jarbidge.
Nearby supplies
Closest supply options available in Tonopah, NV, including groceries and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Pine Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, highlighting the campground's solitude, scenic beauty, and access to hiking trails. However, RV campers reported difficulties due to road conditions and overgrowth.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's quiet and secluded nature, abundant firewood, shaded sites, and proximity to trails for hiking and exploring the Alta Toquima Wilderness.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints center on overgrown sites, rough trail conditions, and limited options for larger RVs. One user warns that 'anything over 30’ will have a rough trip just getting to the campground.'
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, water, and a relaxing attitude. It's advised to tent camp rather than bring large RVs for smoother experiences. Plan hiking trips to Jefferson Peak and Pine Creek Trail.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer offers solitude and excellent hiking conditions. However, during hunting season, the campground sees a higher influx of visitors. Winter may present accessibility challenges due to snow and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground has great sites and a small stream flowing through it.' - Jeremynoig 2. 'The trails on the backside are in ROUGH shape but we managed to power through and see the sheep at the top...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback reveals most sites are shallow, overgrown, and difficult for larger RVs to navigate. Sites along the creek provide scenic views but are better suited for tent camping.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no other accessibility features are noted.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025