Tabor Creek

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

If you want a quiet retreat for your next vacation, consider Tabor Creek in Nevada. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages this location. This government agency oversees and protects one in every ten acres of US land. Several campsites are available for RVers, but they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. When Bureau of Land Management camping, your stays are usually limited to 14 of every 28 days, and there are usually no services.

Tabor Creek is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts. The creeks near this BLM site are stocked with rainbow and brook trout. Tabor Creek is a beautiful place to spend some quiet time in nature. While you are there, make sure to enjoy the beautiful Nevada landscape. Tabor Creek is located in Elko County, one of the most diverse regions in the state with its mountain peaks and high desert valleys. There are plenty of areas to explore near Tabor Creek in your RV. For example, Great Basin National Park is four hours southeast of Tabor Creek, and Grand Teton National Park is in Wyoming six hours and 45 minutes to the northeast of the BLM site.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Twelve Mile Hot Springs Trail

The name of this trail is a bit of a misnomer. In fact, it is a four-mile, out-and-back trail 40 minutes southeast of Tabor Creek. Most hikers can complete the route in an hour. This path is the perfect place to hike, and you will definitely see other people traveling to visit the hot springs.

Length: 4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Winchell Lake Trail

Winchell Lake Trail, an hour and 15 minutes south of Tabor Creek, is an excellent spot to view the stunning aspens and bubbling creeks in the region. It is a popular spot for many runners and hikers, and it is considered one of the more accessible trails in the area.

Length: 6.8 miles

Intensity: Easy

Wildlife Viewing

During your visit to Tabor Creek, keep your eyes open for the various birds, reptiles and mammals in the area. In addition to fishing, many vacationers come here to see the beautiful desert wildlife. This region is known for its pronghorns, bighorn sheep and sage grouses. While you are there, you may even see wild horses roaming near the creek. Since it is a desert region, watch out for the rattlesnakes or zebra-tailed lizards that are known to hide in the brush. On rare occasions, a mountain lion is spotted in the area. Many animals will come to Tabor Creek to get water, especially antelope.

Picnicking

Tabor Creek provides picnic tables at its campsites. You could also have a picnic at Archie Smiley Field, which is 50 minutes south of Tabor Creek. The tables are covered. The Powerhouse Group Picnic Site, an hour and 47 minutes southwest of Tabor Creek, features a large group site covered by an awning.

Hunting

Tabor Creek permits hunting throughout parts of the year. Mule deer and antelope are the more popular big game animals to hunt in the region.

Horseback Riding

Horses are allowed near Tabor Creek on the designated equestrian trails. Along with that, there are plenty of open fields and meadows to set off on an adventure.

Fishing

Many people travel to Tabor Creek for its fishing opportunities. This creek is stocked with rainbow and brook trout. You can try your hand at various fishing methods, including fly fishing, spinning, and baitcasting.

Stargazing

After you have finished for the night, don't forget to look to the skies. Since Tabor Creek is away from the big cities, it is the ideal spot to look at the peaceful night sky.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Tabor Creek is a Bureau of Land Management free camping site. However, this spot does not have many amenities. If you would rather relax and enjoy the comforts of home, think about other RV camping options. Angel Lake RV Park, 48 minutes south of Tabor Creek, is a full-service campground with 44 spots designated for RVs. The sites can accommodate most RV sizes. There are also electricity and water hookups. This campground even offers extended stay options for those who want more time to enjoy the local area. In addition to that, there are other RV campgrounds near Tabor Creek, including Mountain Shadows RV Park, which is 47 minutes south of Tabor Creek, and Double Dice RV Park, an hour and 15 minutes to the southwest of the BLM site.

Free Camping

Tabor Creek only has 10 BLM RV camping sites, and you cannot book them in advance. These sites are spaced far apart, offering a bit of privacy. There is a table and fire ring at each spot. If you need to use the facilities, a vault toilet is located near the camps. Keep in mind that drinking water is not available. If you search for "BLM camping near me," you will also find Angel Creek Campground or Angel Lake Campground, both of which are about an hour south of Tabor Creek and provide vault toilets and potable water.

RV Rentals Near Tabor Creek Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Tabor Creek BLM trip

Before you visit any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, make sure you bring a few supplies. Water is not provided at most campsites, so you will have to bring your own. Camping at Tabor Creek is considered primitive. The nearest town is located 15 miles away if you need any supplies.

Camping at a BLM campground is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. While you may see other RVers, many of these spots are secluded and offer plenty of solitude for your trip. Tabor Creek is a great place to head to the streams and catch a few trout. If you plan to visit this BLM site, there is a $2 fee per day.

Before you hit the road in your RV, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Whether you visit Tabor Creek or another site, always abide by the Leave No Trace principles. Being mindful of your activities can help protect these sites for future generations. If you want to boondock, choose a spot that will not disrupt the environment. Never leave trash at your site, and ensure all fires are properly extinguished. If you travel at night, be careful since many animals are active during these times. Leaving no trace can help everyone enjoy the natural beauty of Tabor Creek.

Tabor Creek Location

Tabor Creek is located in a semi-secluded part of Elko County. If you are traveling from Wells, you need to head north on Upper Metropolis Road for 30 miles. After that, follow all the signs to the Tabor Creek site.

Ready to visit Tabor Creek? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice, soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.