Bob Scott Campground
In Austin, Nevada
Essential Guide
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Austin, Nevada GPS: 39.4551, -117.0011 Elevation: 7005′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official) 775/964-2671 $10/night for individual sites, $25/night for group spot |
Previous Reviews:
Bob Scott Campground: Location: 6 miles southeast of Austin on US 50. Accessible from U.S. Route 50. in an open setting with pinyon-juniper forest at Bob Scott Summit. Hunting for deer and elk in season. Fishing at Birch Creek, 8 miles from campground. Bob Scott CG is open May – October. There are 21 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.
Elevation 7200 feet. 10 sites, including one group area which can accommodate up to 50 campers, in open setting with pinyon-juniper forest at Bob Scott Summit. A number of roads from the campground and from Austin Summit are ideal for mountain biking or OHV use. Hunting for deer and elk in season. Fishing in Birch Creek, 8 miles south of the campground.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet, no-frills spot to boondock near Austin, Nevada, Bob Scott Campground is worth considering. It’s tucked into the Toiyabe Mountains right off Highway 50, and the vibe is pretty mellow.
This U.S. Forest Service site keeps things simple with picnic tables, fire rings, and a drinking water spigot. You can roll in with an RV or pitch a tent at one of the nine sites, or grab the group area if you’re camping with a crowd.
Everything here is first-come, first-served—no reservations, just show up and hope for the best. The elevation sits around 7,200 feet, with pinyon-juniper trees offering a bit of shade and a woodsy atmosphere.
Bob Scott campground is a solid pick for anyone who wants to get away from the usual bustle but still have flush toilets and a few creature comforts. Hikers, road trippers, and folks chasing the “Loneliest Road in America” will probably appreciate the location.
Bob Scott Campground In Austin, Nevada
Staying at Bob Scott Campground puts you in a remote patch near Austin, Nevada. It’s perched right on Bob Scott Summit, about six miles east of town along Highway 50.
The forest setting gives you both privacy and a little relief from the sun. There are 9 individual campsites and a group site that can handle up to 50 people—plenty of room for most setups.
Picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and flush toilets are on hand, but that’s about it. Don’t expect hookups for power or sewage; you’ll need to be self-sufficient.
Bob Scott campground draws hunters, hikers, and outdoor types who want access to the Toiyabe Mountains’ trails and views. The elevation means cooler temperatures—sometimes chilly, even when it’s hot down in the valleys.
Services are limited, so pack everything you need. Dogs are fine, but they have to stay leashed.
Fees are straightforward: $10 a night for individual sites, $25 for the group spot. Check for updates or closures by calling the Austin-Tonopah Ranger District at (775) 964-2671 before you head out.
Directions
Start in Austin, Nevada if you’re coming to Bob Scott campground. Head east on U.S. Highway 50 East—it’s hard to get lost on this stretch.
Go about six miles out of town. You’ll hit Bob Scott Summit, and the campground is right there in the Toiyabe Mountains.
Watch for signs pointing you to the entrance, just off the highway. It’s a remote area, so don’t count on finding many services along the way.
The roads are fine for RVs or truck campers up to 35 feet. No tricky turns or backroads to worry about here.
Remember, it’s all first-come, first-served—no reservations. If you run into trouble or need directions, the Austin-Tonopah Ranger District at (775) 964-2671 can help.
The Bob Scott campground usually opens from May through October, depending on the weather. It’s smart to check ahead before heading out; mountain weather can change plans fast.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
Getting to Bob Scott Campground is pretty straightforward—it’s all paved road, so most vehicles won’t have issues. The whole place runs on a first-come, first-served system, and the fees are about as simple as they get.
Understanding the basics—pricing, road quality, and size limits—makes planning less of a headache.
Fees
Fees here are easy to figure out. Individual campsites charge a small nightly rate, and group sites cost a bit more if you’re rolling deep.
Since it’s a Forest Service spot, your fee helps keep the place running and covers basic amenities like tables, fire pits, and flush toilets. No hookups, and no surprise charges.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead for the latest rates, but you can expect to pay per night with no weird add-ons. Makes camping here affordable and hassle-free.
Road Conditions And Accessibility
You reach Bob Scott Campground via U.S. Highway 50, about six miles east of Austin. The main road is paved and in good shape for cars, trucks, and RVs.
Inside the campground, the roads are maintained but can get a bit narrow or bumpy—nothing too wild, but it’s a forest service area, so don’t expect luxury. High clearance isn’t usually needed, but if the weather gets rough, take it easy.
There aren’t any services at the campground itself, so bring everything you need. Cell service is spotty at best, so plan for a little digital detox.
RV Or Camping Trailer Length
You can bring an RV or camping trailer to Bob Scott Campground, but space is honestly pretty limited. There are just nine individual sites, plus a larger group site, and they all come in different sizes. It’s not exactly a sprawling RV resort.
Most sites handle trailers or RVs up to about 25 feet without much trouble, though anything bigger feels a bit cramped. If you’re thinking about the group area, it can fit up to 12 people, but squeezing in a large rig with a crowd isn’t always ideal.
Don’t expect hookups here—there’s no water, power, or sewer connections at the sites. You’ll need to rely on your own systems for everything. If your setup is on the larger side, it might be wise to bring a smaller tow vehicle or double-check which sites are actually available before you roll in.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Restrooms Picnic Tables Fire Rings Dogs Welcome |
RV Camping Tent Camping Hiking Biking OHV Fishing Hunting Stargazing Wildlife Viewing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
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State Specific Information Links
Nevada Park Service
Nevada Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources
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