Snake Creek Primitive Campgrounds
01 reviewSnake Creek Primitive Campgrounds
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
There are no camping fees for the Snake Creek Campgrounds. All sites are First-Come-First-Served.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider775-234-7331grba_interpretation@nps.gov
About this campground
Discover the hidden beauty of Snake Creek Primitive Campgrounds, where pristine wilderness meets rugged adventure on the southeastern slopes of Great Basin National Park. This collection of secluded sites—including the whimsically named Monkey Rock and Squirrel Springs, alongside the dramatic Pinnacles and Eagle Peak—offers an authentic backcountry experience along the babbling Snake Creek River. For those seeking even greater solitude, the remote Shoshone and Johnson Lake sites await after a rewarding hike through towering Aspen groves. Here, beneath towering limestone cliffs that glow golden at sunset, you'll find yourself immersed in one of Nevada's most spectacular natural sanctuaries.
Snake Creek Primitive Campgrounds are designed for primitive camping, offering a first-come, first-served setup with no fees and minimal facilities. The campground is seasonally open from May to October and is aimed at providing a rustic, back-to-nature experience.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early autumn, Snake Creek transforms into a high-desert paradise. The campground welcomes adventurers from May through October, when wildflowers paint the meadows and warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. As November approaches, winter's embrace closes these primitive sites until the following May, blanketing the landscape in pristine snow. The region's characteristically dry climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll through during summer months, adding drama to the already spectacular scenery.
ElevationPerched high in the Great Basin's mountain realm, these campgrounds offer the refreshing coolness and pristine air that only comes with significant elevation, providing a welcome escape from the desert heat below.
Natural Features and ScenerySnake Creek's landscape reads like a love letter to the American West. Magnificent stands of quaking Aspen create natural cathedrals, their leaves shimmering like thousands of gold coins in the breeze. Above, ancient limestone cliffs rise dramatically, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. The ever-present Snake Creek provides a gentle soundtrack as it tumbles over rocks, creating perfect habitats for diverse bird species that fill the air with song. This remarkable 'sky island' ecosystem harbors an astonishing variety of life, from delicate wildflowers to soaring raptors, all thriving in this elevated oasis above the surrounding desert.
Geological RegionSet within the southeastern reaches of Great Basin National Park, Snake Creek occupies a geological wonderland where ancient seas once covered the land. The towering limestone cliffs that frame these campsites stand as monuments to this prehistoric past, their layers revealing millions of years of Earth's history. This unique position at the base of these geological giants, surrounded by verdant Aspen forests, creates a rare convergence of ecosystems—a place where mountain meets sky, and where the forces that shaped the Great Basin are written in stone for all to see.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes one ADA campsite. Restroom facilities are ADA accessible. Gravel and dirt surfaces may pose challenges, especially in steep areas.
Sites SizeExact size of campsites is not provided, but there are nine sites in total.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as located in scenic and natural settings, providing some seclusion due to the Aspen groves and limestone cliffs.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the Shoshone and Johnson Lake trails require a short hike, making them ideal for those looking for a secluded experience.
Best CampsitesMonkey Rock, Squirrel Springs, Pinnacles, and Eagle Peak are highlighted.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Groups
No group camping facilities are provided.
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 individual campsites including Monkey Rock, Squirrel Springs, Pinnacles, and Eagle Peak. Sites near Shoshone and Johnson Lake trails require a short hike.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May through October, weather permitting. Closed from November 5 to May 1 due to winter weather.
Reservation PlatformsReservation is not available as all sites are first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis, without reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCampsites are First-Come-First-Served, meaning reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Snake Creek Primitive Campgrounds offer limited recreational opportunities, with trails leading to nearby destinations such as Shoshone and Johnson Lake. The area provides a natural environment for hiking, bird-watching, and immersion in the park's lush vegetation.
Hiking
The campground is located near trails like Shoshone and Johnson Lake Trail, which are accessible via a short 0.5-mile hike from the parking lot at the end of Snake Creek Road. The trails offer opportunities to explore the surrounding natural beauty.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in a natural area that supports bird-watching and other wildlife observation opportunities due to its lush vegetation and proximity to diverse habitats.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned. The site is closed from November 5 to May 1 due to seasonal weather conditions.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires may only be built in provided metal fire rings using dead wood found on the ground. Standing trees or shrubs may not be collected. Chainsaw use is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsThe primitive nature of the campsites and steep gravel surfaces may pose challenges. Wildlife presence is implied but not detailed.
Weather forecast
34
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection is available seasonally, but further details on pickup schedules or locations are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along the Snake Creek River, offering proximity to water features.
Common complaintsUser reviews note that access to some sites requires carrying gear due to the primitive nature of the campground.
HostStaff is not on-site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Great Basin Visitor Center: Turn right on Highway 487 before Nevada/Utah Border.
The main road to the campground has paved parking areas for cars and campers. However, campsites are gravel and dirt with some steep surfaces. It is open seasonally from May through October, and closed from November to May due to winter weather.Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Snake Creek Primitive Campgrounds has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Snake Creek Campgrounds are appreciated for their serene and scenic environment. However, the lack of amenities and the primitive facilities limit convenience. The park's natural beauty often receives praise.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nestled among Aspen groves and at the base of impressive limestone cliffs." Reviewers appreciate the clean restroom facilities and the scenic views.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of potable water, showers, and cell phone reception are noted as drawbacks in user reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a campsite. Prepare for a rustic experience by bringing sufficient water and supplies. The ADA campsite and accessible restroom may be a consideration for visitors with...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is seasonally open from May to October, receiving the highest praise in late spring and early fall when weather conditions are optimal. Winter closure limits access after November.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Pulled into the lot late one evening, but didn't want to carry stuff over to the primitive campsites (not far at all, just lazy) so I went to one of the pull-out camping spots I passed on the way up...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention the proximity of sites to the Snake Creek River and the trailheads, which are a short hike away. Specific site numbers are not reviewed.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
The ADA campsite and accessible restroom are noted favorably by visitors.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information regarding pets or pet-related policies is available.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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