Nevada Outdoor Activities

What do the great outdoors hold for your next visit to Elko? Pull up a chair and grab a copy of your bucket list, because we have a whole bunch of outdoor activities to explore here.

Your trip to Elko might be a low-key one, where you photograph any of the hundreds of bird species native to the area in our bountiful wilderness areas. Or, you might have your sights set on a day of fishing in the Rubies, where trout virtually leap out of the water at you. Horseback riding is another favorite for locals and visitors alike. Looking for a higher gear? Spend a day offroading and blazing new trails or climbing glaciated granite formations in the winter. Find more fun below.

Camping

Developed, public campgrounds are scattered throughout the Elko area. Most are managed by the U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management and have daily camping fees posted. The majority of undeveloped areas on public lands are also open to camping.

Explore Campgrounds

Offroading Elko

Elko’s off-highway and four-wheel drive trails are abundant. Visit Harrison Pass, Maggie Creek, Merritt Mountain and areas around Charleston or Jarbidge to explore super remote areas where it’s just you, your Jeep and the land.

Find Offroading Fun

Outdoor Activities in Elko, NV

Maybe the best thing you’ll discover in Elko’s outdoor areas is yourself. Come see why so many adventurers love Elko.

Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing

With 37,632 acres of marshes, open ponds and wet meadows, Elkco County is home to more than 200 of Nevada’s 456 bird species.

Rockhounding

Find black shale, petrified wood, brachiopods, ammonites, corals, agate and all of your favorite minerals and rocks in our region.

Fishing

Take your pick from lake fishing or fly fishing in area streams, ponds, lakes and rivers. The bass and trout always seem to be biting when you’re in Elko!

Hiking

Some of the West’s most rewarding hikes are in the Ruby Mountains, with 10 peaks above 11,000 feet and plenty of challenging terrain.

Biking

From mountain biking to road cycling, Elko is filled with roads and trails hold the promise of adventure and discovery. See where the locals ride!

Rock Climbing

Climb the big walls of Lamoille Canyon for a variety of rocks and slopes, including several ice walls for more experienced climbers.

Golfing Elko

Stay in town and take in 18 at the Ruby View Golf Course or head down the road apiece to the scenic Spring Creek Golf Course. A day on the links is never a bad thing.