Bird Creek Recreation Area

Overview

Bird Creek Recreation Area is located in the Duck Creek Basin, high on the Schell Creek Range. It sits at an elevation of 8,200 feet, approximately 25 miles from the small city of Ely. Hiking and off-road vehicle riding are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area.

Recreation

The Ranger Trail can be accessed from this campground. The Ranger Trail is a designated ATV trail that also accommodates hiking and mountain biking use as well. The partially paved, 38-mile Success Loop Scenic Drive is also in the area, with views of high desert and mountain terrain.

Facilities

The campground has four day-use group picnicking sites: Sites C and F can accommodate up to 25 people each, Site G can hold up to 50 people, and Site H, up to 100 people. Some sites require a short walk from the parking area, on a bridge over Bird Creek. All sites have picnic and serving tables, a campfire circle, grill and a cement pad.

Four overnight campsites are available within the recreation area, for tent camping only. Those sites can accommodate up 12 people each and are equipped with a table, campfire ring, grill and cement pad.

Vault toilets and drinking water are provided, but there is no trash collection. This is a "pack it in, pack it out" facility.

Natural Features

Duck Creek flows perennially through the campground. A mixed forest of juniper, pinyon pine and alder trees covers the area, but provides only limited shade.

Nearby Attractions

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is a few miles southeast of 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

Bird Creek Camp site is close for the season due to renovations. Will open up in the 2020 Season.