Nevada’s Desert Oasis
Tucked below Rye Patch Dam on the Humboldt River, Rye Patch State Recreation Area’s Lower Campground is a genuine surprise—a green, tree-lined break from northern Nevada’s endless sagebrush. Open year-round, it’s perfect for RVers, tent campers, or anyone needing a solid stop on I-80. My early October trip turned a boring drive into a standout stay, with ducks, fish, and turquoise water all around. If you’re chasing miles on chasing-eighty.com, this is your go-to.
Getting There: Easy Access
Just 25 miles west of Winnemucca and 120 miles east of Reno, right off I-80. GPS: 40.4525° N, 118.1650° W. Paved road, $10 out-of-state day-use fee (included in camping).
Real Amenities That Deliver
The Lower Campground has 22 sites with flush toilets and hot private showers—open all year, a rare treat. Water spigots everywhere, but no site water or sewer. Site 22 (E Utilities) gave us 15/30-amp power, riverfront views, and open northeast sky—perfect for Starlink.
$35/night ($5 out-of-state fee included). Pay by envelope on arrival or reserve online. First-come, first-served works, but book ahead for weekends. Dump station on the dam’s west side.
Riverfront, Tree-Shaded Bliss
Cottonwoods and willows shade the sites. Site 22 sits right on the river—watch ducks glide, hear fish jump in cloudy turquoise water. A 5-minute walk up the hill hits the day-use area with reservoir views. Great for morning walks. Fishing is strong (catfish, walleye, crappie), and the boat ramp makes launching easy. Wildlife everywhere—owls, foxes, eagles.
Why We’ll Be Back
Rye Patch is a true desert oasis—green, quiet, and loaded with perks. Early October was mild, uncrowded. Site 22 nailed it: power, privacy, river access, Starlink-ready. We’re already planning the return.
Coords: 40.4525° N, 118.1650° W — grab Site 22 and enjoy.
Amenities at a Glance
• Flush Toilets: Yes
• Hot Showers: Yes, private, year-round
• Water Spigots: Yes (no site hookups)
• Electric: Yes at select sites (Site 22: 15/30-amp)
• Dump Station: Yes (west side of dam)
• Fire Rings / Tables: Yes
• Trash: Yes
• Cell/Wi-Fi: Decent Verizon/AT&T (3-4 bars); Starlink works great at Site 22
More info: parks.nv.gov/parks/rye-patch
Phone:
(775) 684-2770
Reserve: nevadastateparks.reserveamerica.com
