Toquima Cave Campground
4.2910 reviews100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310
Toquima Cave 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 reserving campsites at Toquima Cave Campground.
About this campground
Hidden deep within the Toquima Range of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Toquima Cave Campground offers adventurous souls a rare glimpse into ancient history without the crowds. This free, primitive campground serves as your basecamp for exploring sacred Native American pictographs that have adorned nearby cave walls for over a thousand years. With just a handful of sites equipped with basic amenities—vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings—this remote sanctuary attracts those who value solitude and authentic wilderness experiences over modern conveniences.
The campground offers primitive camping options with no fees required. "Remote and primitive campsite nestled in a pinyon and juniper forest," described Greg Daggett.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you follow ancient footsteps to Toquima Cave, where indigenous Shoshone artists left their mark between 600-1300 CE. These remarkable pictographs, painted in natural pigments that have survived centuries of desert weather, tell stories we can only imagine. The cave serves as a powerful reminder of the deep human connection to this landscape, transforming a simple camping trip into a journey through living history.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 7,900 feet, this high-elevation retreat experiences dramatic seasonal shifts that shape each visit differently. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland where temperatures plunge below freezing, creating a pristine but challenging environment for hardy campers. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for exploration, though nighttime temperatures can still dip surprisingly low, reminding visitors to pack layers even in July. The shoulder seasons offer their own magic, with crisp air and changing colors painting the high desert in stunning hues.
ElevationAt nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, this mountain campground delivers the thin, crystal-clear air that makes stars seem close enough to touch. The significant elevation brings refreshing relief from desert heat in summer, but also demands respect—altitude can affect some visitors, and weather can shift from balmy to biting with little warning. Snow may dust the ground well into late spring and return early in fall, adding an element of high-country adventure to your stay.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by aromatic pinyon pines and ancient junipers that twist toward the sky, the campground feels like a secret garden in the sky. The short trail to Toquima Cave winds through this fragrant forest, building anticipation for the archaeological treasures ahead. For those seeking additional natural wonders, the legendary Spencer Hot Springs bubble up from the earth just a drive away, where 192°F waters have carved natural soaking pools that offer the perfect end to a day of exploration.
Geological RegionThe Toquima Range rises like an island from Nevada's basin and range country, creating a sky island ecosystem where pinyon-juniper woodlands thrive in splendid isolation. This rugged mountain landscape within the vast Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest harbors not just Toquima Cave's ancient artwork, but a complex geological story written in limestone cliffs and volcanic formations. The interplay of elevation, exposed rock, and high desert climate has created perfect conditions for both the preservation of archaeological sites and the growth of hardy, aromatic forests that provide shade and shelter for modern visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers rustic amenities and does not explicitly provide features catering to accessibility needs.
Sites SizeSpaces are described as small, with tight configurations making it difficult for larger vehicles such as full-size trucks or RVs. Review by Tom Ware states, "Small spaces. Trees tight. Could barely fit my full-size truck through the camp."
Sites PrivacyHighly secluded and quiet, as noted by multiple reviewers. "Stayed there for 2 nights in July 2021. Had the whole place to ourselves," wrote John Xie.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest bringing a sufficient water supply and avoiding larger vehicles due to tight spaces.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites mentioned as 'best' due to the very small size of the campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limits are mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No information provided about guest limits per site.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall and primitive layout with tight spaces and limited sites (2).
Open and Closed SeasonMid-May to late October, as weather and conditions allow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required as the campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come-first-served basis. User reviews repeatedly highlight the remote and often solitary nature of the campground.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy is provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The primary attractions include hiking to the nearby Toquima Cave, viewing ancient Shoshone pictographs, and visiting Spencer's Hot Springs located on nearby BLM land. Hunting is also available. "Great little campground with good views and outstanding archeological site just a short quarter-mile hike away," noted Charles Ballard. Hiking and cultural exploration dominate recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking is a primary activity, with accessible trails such as the half-mile Cave Trail beginning in the campground. "Short easy hike from campground to cave," wrote Sandro Huizar.Cultural and Educational Programs
Viewing ancient Shoshone pictographs at Toquima Cave offers a unique cultural and educational experience.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned, but the campground does feature fire rings.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned in official sources.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note biting gnats during warmer months and the remoteness of the campground, which requires thorough preparation, especially regarding water supply.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.6 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 Austin Office, located at 100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310. Phone: 775-964-2671.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May through late October.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned in either authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Spencer Hot Springs, which features a developed tub and below-ground pool.
Common complaintsVault toilets in poor condition, biting gnats, and tight maneuvering spaces within the campground for larger vehicles.
HostNo information provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
100 Midas Canyon Road, Austin, NV 89310
Driving directionsTo access the campground from Austin: Follow US 50 east of the State Road 376 junction. Turn right and continue south for about 0.1 mile, look for a Nevada State shaped sign. Turn onto this road and continue east for approximately 12 miles to the campground. To access the campground from Tonopah: Follow US 6 east from Tonopah to the State Road 376 junction. Turn left and continue north for approximately 100 miles to the Nevada State shaped sign, about 0.1 mile south of the US 50 and State Road 376 junction. Turn right onto this road and continue approximately 12 miles to the campground. To access the campground from Ely: Follow US 50 west to the State Road 376 junction, and turn left. Continue south for approximately 0.1 mile to the Nevada State shaped sign. Turn left onto this road and continue for approximately 12 miles to the campground.
The road leading to the campground is unpaved and requires driving approximately 12 miles on a dirt road after leaving the paved highways. There are no indications of seasonal closures, but the remote location may pose challenges for larger vehicles. User reviews mention tight spaces within the campground, making maneuvering difficult for full-sized trucks or towing vehicles.Nearby places
Austin is 12 miles away
Tonopah is approximately 100 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Austin, NV, located 12 miles from the campground, is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
10 reviews
Toquima Cave Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews emphasize the campground’s remoteness, primitive nature, and historical significance. The pictographs at Toquima Cave and nearby Spencer’s Hot Springs are major highlights. Several reviewers note the lack of potable water and the poor condition of vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
- Proximity to Toquima Cave for viewing ancient Shoshone pictographs
- Remote and secluded for peace and quiet
- Fire rings and picnic tables available
- Historical and cultural significance
- Views...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of potable water
- Poor vault toilet conditions
- Tight campsite configurations limiting space for larger vehicles
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring all water and supplies, as none are provided on-site.
- Vault toilets may require cleaning or repairs.
- Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking solitude.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers are quiet with few visitors, based on reviews. "Camped from 7/7 to 7/9/2021 and no one else camped there," shared Andy. Winter usability is not clear due to the campground’s seasonal closure...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Short easy hike from campground to cave," - Sandro Huizar
"Quiet campground, looks like it's been there a long time," - Sonja Blazewick
"Remote and primitive campsite nestled in a pinyon and juniper...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite numbers are not provided, but users describe the campground as having small sites with tight tree configurations.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly mention accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, as long as dogs are kept on a leash. "Dog-friendly area," wrote Charlie W.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025