Goshute Canyon Boondocking In Ely, Nevada – Directions, Access & Tips

by John Rodgers / Friday, July 25, 2025 / Published in Nevada Free, Free Camping

Goshute Canyon Boondocking
In Ely, Nevada
Directions, Access & Tips

ADDRESS
Unnamed Road Ely, Nevada GPS: 40.049022, -114.795978 Elevation: 6214′
MANAGEMENT
Public – Bureau of Land Management 775-289-1800 This is a FREE campsite.

Previous Reviews:

Goshute Canyon Boondocking: Open all year. Maximum RV length is 20′. This is free campsite. Lots of ruts and gullies in the dirt road.

Free boondocking site in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. 15 day limit posted but does not seem to be enforced. Some homeless spilling out from Las Vegas. Restrooms at entrance; dumpsters.

About This Location

Goshute Canyon boondocking sites means camping far from the beaten path, surrounded by pinyon-juniper forests and not much else. The campsites are rustic, and you’ll probably hear more wind than people.

There aren’t any required camping fees if you stick to dispersed sites. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) runs some of the area, and you might need a permit or pay a small fee if you stay longer than 14 days or do something out of the ordinary.

The terrain is rugged and the views can be spectacular, especially if you’re into rocky canyons. Not far off, Goshute Cave is waiting if you’re up for a little underground exploring.

Inside the cave, you’ll find some wild limestone formations—definitely not your average desert experience. There’s a sense of discovery at Goshute Canyon boondocking sites that’s hard to describe.

While you’re wandering, check out the bristlecone pine forests. These trees are ancient, some of the oldest living things on the planet, and they give the whole place a special vibe.

You’ll get a mix of canyon views, caves, and those gnarly old trees—kind of a jackpot for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Summer days can get hot, sometimes in the 80s°F, but winter nights can drop into the 20s°F. Bring layers, just in case.

Boondocking at Goshute Canyon boondocking sites really works best for smaller to mid-sized RVs and camping trailers. The access roads are narrow, sometimes bumpy, and just not built for the big rigs.

There aren’t any official length rules posted out here, but honestly, the roads and parking areas can get pretty tight. If you’re rolling up with something over 25 feet, you might have a tough time finding a good spot.

Heads up: There’s no water, electricity, or any real facilities. Pack in everything you need, and be cool—leave no trace so the place stays wild for the next folks who wander in.

Directions

Getting to Goshute Canyon Boondocking from Ely is pretty straightforward, but you’ll want to prep in town first. Ely’s your last solid stop for gas, water, and whatever supplies you might have forgotten.

From Ely, hop on US Highway 93 north and drive for about 45 miles. When you hit Nevada State Route 489, turn west and keep going for another 7 miles.

After that, look for County Road 25—it’s a graded dirt road heading south. Follow it until you spot the signs for Goshute Canyon Wilderness.

The dirt roads can get bumpy, and if it’s rained recently, expect some mud. If you’re towing a trailer or in a big RV, take it slow and make sure your ride can handle some rough patches.

A GPS or a good old-fashioned map is a smart move, since cell service out here is spotty at best. Goshute Canyon boondocking sites are primitive and it’s first-come, first-served, so don’t count on having your pick of the perfect spot.

There are no developed facilities, so you’ll want to bring all your essentials and be ready for whatever nature throws your way.