South Ruby Campground

Overview

South Ruby Campground is situated above Ruby Lake at the base of the beautiful Ruby Mountains at 6,000 feet in 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.

Recreation

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 two 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. An interpretive trail was recently constructed at Fort Ruby historic site and provides insight on local history as well as spectacular views of the southern Ruby Mountains, uninterrupted by development. The southern trailhead for the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail at Green Mountain is located within 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.

Facilities

A forest of pinyon pine and juniper covers the area offering partial shade. The campground contains 33 single sites, one double and one accessible site with picnic tables and campfire rings. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection 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 at a reduced fee with only campsites, picnic tables, and fire rings offered to campers at that time. Both RV and tent campsites are available for those who visit the campground. A fish cleaning station is located on site. Firewood and a trolling motor charging station are also available for a fee.

Natural Features

The campground is situated above Ruby Lake, at an elevation of 6,000 feet. A forest of pinion pine and juniper covers the area. The trees provide good privacy between campsites, but limited shade.