Bighorn Campground

For Nevada locals yearning to truly "get away from it all" and immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Silver State, Bighorn Campground at the Elbow offers an unparalleled primitive camping experience. Nestled in Mineral County, this hidden gem is part of the expansive Walker River State Recreation Area, providing a serene escape right on the banks of the famous Walker River. It's a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the gentle murmur of the river and the rustling of leaves. If you're a Nevadan who values quiet solitude, exceptional trout fishing, and direct access to miles of scenic trails, Bighorn Campground promises an authentic outdoor adventure that reconnects you with the wild heart of our state.

Bighorn Campground is located in Mineral County, NV 89444, USA, specifically within the "Elbow" section of the Walker River State Recreation Area. Its precise location can be accessed from multiple routes, ensuring a journey that, while leading to a remote setting, is manageable for most vehicles. Traveling from Yerington, Nevadans can follow Highway 208 through the scenic Smith Valley, eventually turning onto Sweetwater Road. Alternatively, from Wellington on Highway 208, travelers can take the Wellington Cutoff to Highway 338, continuing south for approximately 23.5 miles before turning east onto Sweetwater Road. This turn is often marked by signs directing towards "The Elbow" at the Walker River State Recreation Area. From Sweetwater Road, it's about 7 miles on a county-maintained dirt road to reach Bighorn Campground. While the final stretch is dirt, it is generally passable. This allows local campers to access a truly private and spacious setting, far enough from paved roads to ensure peace, yet within reach for a weekend or extended stay. The surrounding terrain of open spaces, river access, and rolling hills creates a picturesque and accessible backdrop for your adventure.

Bighorn Campground provides essential services for a primitive camping experience, focusing on preserving the natural environment while offering necessary conveniences. Campers should be prepared for a rustic stay and bring adequate supplies.

• Primitive Campsites: The campground offers a number of individual campsites, designed for both tent camping and accommodating larger vehicles like RVs and toy haulers. Sites vary in size, with some being "big enough for 2 large toy haulers" and others ideal for couples.
• Riverfront Access: Many campsites are located "right on the river," providing direct access to the Walker River for fishing and relaxation.
• Restrooms: A "few restrooms" are available at the campground. These are typically vault toilets (also known as pit toilets), common in primitive campgrounds, and are maintained by the park staff.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: While not explicitly stated for every site in the provided reviews, it is standard for primitive campgrounds managed by Nevada State Parks or BLM to offer picnic tables and fire rings at each designated campsite. Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings, and visitors should bring their own firewood and check for any fire restrictions.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that Bighorn Campground generally does NOT have potable (drinkable) water available. Visitors must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs, making this a dry camping experience.
• Designated Camping Areas: All camping equipment must be set up in designated areas to minimize environmental impact.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be leashed and kept under control at all times, adhering to park regulations.
• Fee-Based: While specific pricing for this exact campground might vary, camping fees are typical for Nevada State Parks. For Walker River State Recreation Area, camping is typically $15.00 per vehicle, per night (Nevada residents), with a non-NV vehicle fee of $20.00.

Bighorn Campground is celebrated for its unique features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Nevada's outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those seeking a tranquil and activity-rich environment.

• Remote Solitude: The most significant highlight is its "away from it all" atmosphere. It's a place where campers experience true quiet and privacy, often with "plenty of room" between sites, and a sense of being truly immersed in nature.
• Excellent Trout Fishing: The Walker River is renowned for "great trout fishing," making Bighorn Campground a prime destination for anglers looking to catch trophy fish. The "great fishing" is a consistent draw.
• Expansive Trail System: There are a "tone of trails all around the camp site," providing abundant opportunities for hiking, off-roading (OHV), and general exploration of the surrounding desert and riverine landscapes. This includes access to adjacent USFS and BLM lands.
• Private and Spacious Campsites: Campers praise the "nice private campsite" and "plenty of room in most of them." This ensures a comfortable and uncrowded experience, a valuable commodity in popular recreation areas.
• River Access: Being "right on the river" offers not only scenic beauty but also easy access for fishing, floating, and enjoying the water, providing a refreshing element to the desert camping experience.
• Rugged and Natural Views: The "views are amazing," encompassing the untouched beauty of the Walker Basin, the meandering river, and the surrounding hills. This unspoiled nature is a significant draw.
• Suitable for Various Camping Setups: The campground can accommodate a wide range of setups, from "truck bed tent" to "2 large toy haulers," showing its versatility for different types of campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The preserved nature of the area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, adding to the immersive outdoor experience.
• Sense of Discovery: The primitive nature and vast surrounding lands foster a sense of discovery and exploration, appealing to adventurous spirits.

For those planning their escape to Bighorn Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Mineral County, NV 89444, USA (Located within Walker River State Recreation Area, "The Elbow" section).

Phone: (775) 463-1609 (Likely the phone number for the Walker River State Recreation Area management or a related Mineral County office).

Mobile Phone: +1 775-463-1609

For the most up-to-date information on fees, fire restrictions, and any seasonal closures, it is highly recommended to contact the Walker River State Recreation Area or Nevada State Parks directly.

Bighorn Campground is an exceptional choice for Nevada locals seeking an authentic, uncrowded, and activity-rich outdoor experience. Its prime location on the Walker River within Mineral County offers incredible opportunities for "great trout fishing" and access to a vast network of trails for off-roading and hiking, directly catering to popular local outdoor pursuits. For those who crave "a place AWAY from it all," the campground's primitive nature ensures genuine solitude and privacy, with "plenty of room" at most sites, a stark contrast to more developed and often bustling campgrounds. While campers must be self-sufficient by bringing their own water and managing without hookups, the reward is an immersion in Nevada's rugged beauty, "amazing views," and a true sense of peaceful escape. For the adventurous Nevadan, Bighorn Campground at the Elbow represents not just a place to stay, but a destination for creating lasting memories of quiet nights, starry skies, and thrilling outdoor exploration in our state's stunning wilderness.

Bighorn Campground

Mineral County, NV 89444, USA