Ruby Mountains Ranger District
Nevada
Thomas Canyon Campground
As of 2023, Scenic Canyons no longer operates this campground, and this page will not be updated. For up to date information, please visit the Forest Service website.
Thomas Canyon Campground, elevation 7,200 feet, is located in northeast Nevada, 30 miles southeast of Elko in scenic Lamoille Canyon. The campground is surrounded by aspen and cottonwood trees, and Lamoille Creek runs through it. Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is popular on the creek. Thomas Canyon Trail begins at the campground, leading past several waterfalls, through an alpine meadow into a glacial cirque.
Each campsite contains a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and BBQ grill; some sites have tent pads. All sites have breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and canyons. A campground host is on site. Roads and parking spurs are paved.
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Lamoille Canyon is part of the beautiful Ruby Mountains, a desert island brimming with wildlife, sparkling lakes and streams, wildflower-filled meadows, and jagged peaks. This area has numerous hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to alpine lakes and vistas. Anglers have plentiful fishing opportunities. The canyon road itself is popular for scenic driving and road biking; vertical cliffs offer rock-climbing routes for all skill levels.
Prices:
$19 for single site
$38 for double site
$7 per extra vehicle
Reservations: Available at recreation.gov. Reservations can be made six months before the first day of your stay.
Directions: Take I-80 to any Elko exit. Head south to Idaho Street, turn south on 12th Street (from the east) or 5th Street (from the west), to State Road 227. Travel 25 miles on S.R. 227 to Forest Road 660, Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway. Travel 8 miles on FR 660 to campground. See map below.
Amenities: Vault toilets, potable water, garbage service.
Open Dates: Opens second Friday in May. Closes fourth Monday in September.
Nearby: Hiking, fishing, scenic driving and bird watching are some of the many activities available in the area.
See more campgrounds managed by Scenic Canyons in the Ruby Mountains Ranger District.
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For more information, visit the Forest Service website.