About East Creek Campground
Overview Located high on the slopes of the Schell Creek Range in the Duck Creek Basin, sitting in the middle of an alder, pinyon and juniper forest, East Creek Campground offers a wide range of recreation opportunities to the forest visitor. Hiking, mountain biking and off-road vehicle riding are just some of the popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area. Elevation is 7,400 feet, located approximately 20 miles from Ely, Nevada. Recreation The Ranger Trail can be accessed from this campground. The Ranger Trail is a designated OHV trail that also accommodates hiking and mountain biking use as well. The 30-mile Success Loop Scenic Drive is also in the area, with views of high desert and mountain terrain. Facilities The campground has 12 newly improved sites and 3 vault toilets. All sites have picnic and serving tables, campfire rings and grills. Water is not provided at this campground. This is a "pack it in, pack it out" facility. Natural Features East Creek, a perennial stream, runs directly through the picnic area and many birds make it their home during the spring and summer seasons. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (775) 289-3031. Nearby Attractions Cave Lake State Park and Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park are both a few miles from Ely. Interesting historic stone ovens and an interpretive trail are available there. The Northern Nevada Railway in Ely has a museum and offers train rides. Charges & Cancellations All change and cancellation requests should be done through Recreation.gov.
How to Get There
The East Creek Campground is located approximately 20 miles from Ely, Nevada. Travel north on Highway 93 to the town of McGill. From McGill, go north approximately 3 miles on Highway 93 to the Duck Creek Basin turnoff. Proceed east on Duck Creek Basin Road and turn left at the sign for East Creek Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to East Creek Campground
Heading to East Creek Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for East Creek Campground?
No central reservation system listed for East Creek Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10299322) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to East Creek Campground?
The East Creek Campground is located approximately 20 miles from Ely, Nevada. Travel north on Highway 93 to the town of McGill. From McGill, go north approximately 3 miles on Highway 93 to the Duck Creek Basin turnoff. Proceed east on Duck Creek Basin Road and turn left at the sign for East Creek Campground.
How do I contact East Creek Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 775-289-3031 Ely Ranger District or email: None.
References & Official Resources
