South Ruby Campground

The campground is is situated above Ruby Lake below the beautiful Ruby Mountains at a 6,000’ elevation, near the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Ruby Valley Nevada.  Ruby Valley is a surprising wildlife oasis.  An expansive marsh is laced with riparian corridors coursing with cool, spring fed waters. Together with lush meadow and shrub-steppe uplands, these habitats support a diversity of wildlife seldom found in the high desert and is one of the most important waterfowl nesting areas in the region. The refuge is either home or a stopover location for over 220 species of birds. Of specific interest are canvasback ducks, trumpeter swans, greater sandhill cranes and sage grouse. Mule deer and pronghorn antelope can also be found in the area.

Ruby Lake is visible from the campground and offers excellent birding, fishing and hiking. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass and several species of trout. The Ruby Lake NWR headquarters is 2 miles north of the campground and offers visitor information.

The campground is located on the Hastings Cutoff route, near the Pony Express Trail and historic ruins of Fort Ruby. A new interpretive trail was recently constructed at the Fort Ruby historic site and provides insight on local history as well as spectacular views of the southern Ruby Mountains and beyond, all relatively uninterrupted by human development. The southern trailhead for the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail at Green Mountain is located within a reasonable driving distance from the campground. Many dirt and gravel roads begin at Harrison Pass (just north of the refuge) and Overland Pass (south of the area) and provide enjoyable routes for jeeps, off road motorcycles, OHVs, and mountain bikes.

A forest of pinyon pine and juniper covers the area offering partial shade. Vault toilets, and drinking water are provided during the main summer season, which usually runs from early May to late September. The lower loop of the campground remains open all winter with only campsites, picnic tables, and fire rings offered to campers during that time. A fish cleaning station is located on site. Firewood and a trolling motor charging station are also available for a fee.

At a Glance