Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to Moonshine Meadows?

Sleeping Bag: High-desert temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between daytime sun and nighttime. Bring a quality 30-degree sleeping bag.

This is a bring-your-own-bag camp.

Camp chair: Bring your favorite camp chair. Some seating is provided, but it may not always be available.

Flashlight or headlamp: Our camps and trails have some lighting, but a flashlight will be necessary. A hands-free headlamp is even better. Bring extra batteries.

Sturdy layers: Bring a heavy jacket, thermal base layers, and warm sleepwear, even in summer.

All-weather footwear: Bring closed-toe hiking boots or rugged trail shoes for walking across unpaved ground and natural sage terrain. Rattlesnakes have been seen in the area and should not be approached.

Charging cord: Bring a charging cord for your personal devices. Charging locations are provided in the camps and kitchen.

Bug spray: Insects can be active around springs and creek areas, especially at dusk.

Cooler with ice: Ice is not available on-site, so pack enough for your perishable food and drinks. Ice is available at the Trading Post in Jarbidge.

Reusable water bottles: Bring reusable bottles or other vessels that you can refill with on-site water.

Groceries and cooking essentials: Bring your own food. An outdoor shared kitchen is available, but the available supplies can vary. Bring everything you need to cook and eat, including planned meals, snacks, spices, foil, and cooking oil. The nearest partial-service grocery store is four miles away.

Reusable camp tableware: Bring a plate, bowl, utensils, and a travel mug for morning coffee.

Shower and bath essentials: A bathroom is available on-site, but there are no showers. Showers are available for purchase at the Outdoor Inn in Jarbidge.

Site-specific reminder: If you booked a bring-your-own-tent site, you must bring your own shelter, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. If you booked the Dome, Tent, or Sheep Camp Wagon, you will only need a sleeping bag. However, an extra cozy throw blanket is always recommended for cool nights.

What is the weather like at Moonshine Meadows?

Because we are located in a high-elevation mountain canyon in northeastern Nevada, the weather follows classic high-desert mountain patterns. Expect clear skies, low humidity, intense daytime sun, and dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Temperatures can often drop 30–40°F after sunset.

Seasonal Breakdown

Summer (Late June–August): Warm, sunny days with highs typically in the mid-80s to low 90s°F. Even on hot summer afternoons, temperatures cool quickly after sunset, dropping into the 40s or 50s°F overnight. Brief, passing afternoon mountain thunderstorms are possible.

Fall (September–October): Crisp, clear autumn days with highs in the 60s and 70s°F. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dipping into the 30s°F or below freezing. Fall foliage in the canyon typically peaks from late September to early October.

Late Spring (May–Early June): Mild but variable weather, with daytime highs usually in the 60s and 70s°F. Spring snow flurries and chilly, windy evenings are still common at this elevation.

Top Weather Tips for Guests

Be prepared for changing temperatures: Any day of the year can bring a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.

Pack layers: Regardless of the season, bring warm layers. Even in July and August, you may want a fleece, beanie, and warm jacket for sitting around the fire pit and stargazing at night.

What resources are around Moonshine Meadows?

Moonshine Meadows is a remote high-desert sanctuary, so planning ahead is key. Jarbidge has a few basic services available for fuel, groceries, dining, and emergencies.

Nearby Resources

Fuel: Ethanol-free gasoline and diesel are available in Jarbidge. Fuel pumps accept credit and debit cards.

Groceries and ice: The Trading Post carries basic refrigerated and packaged foods, alcoholic beverages, and ice cream. Ice is also available for purchase. Tobacco products are not available in Jarbidge.

Dinner and drinks: The Outdoor Inn is open during the summer, while the Red Dog Saloon is open during the winter.

Camp kitchen: The Moonshine Meadows kitchen is available for guests to use. It includes a Blackstone grill, propane side burners with cast-iron pans, and a water kettle. A propane fire pit is also available for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows.

ATM: ATMs are available at the Outdoor Inn and Red Dog Saloon.

Emergency services: 911 emergency services are provided by Elko County and the Jarbidge Volunteer Fire Department.

Pro Tip for Guests

Plan ahead: Cell service is non-existent in the area, and public Wi-Fi is only available at Moonshine Meadows. Purchase your groceries and plan your meals before arriving. Bring a card or enough cash for anything you may need during your stay. It is also a good idea to keep extra water and a warm blanket in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

Can I bring dogs to Moonshine Meadows?

Also found in The Camp Guidelines, Dogs are welcome but must remain on leash at all times and can NEVER be left in any camp structure unattended.

Any damage done to the property of Moonshine Meadows will be charged accordingly.

How long of a drive from Twin Falls to Moonshine Meadows?

The drive from Twin Falls, Idaho, to Moonshine Meadows takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Allow extra travel time for unexpected delays, including accidents, wildlife, livestock, road conditions, or other circumstances.

Property Address:
2026 Charleston-Jarbidge Rd
Jarbidge, NV 89863

Driving Directions

⚠️ Important: Cell service will drop completely before you arrive. Please screenshot or print these directions before leaving cell service.

Directions from Twin Falls, Idaho:

  1. Head south from Twin Falls on Highway 93 toward Rogerson.
  2. Turn right at Rogerson, then turn right again onto Three Creek Highway.
  3. Continue west on Three Creek Highway over Salmon Dam.
  4. Stay on the paved road until it turns to dirt, approximately 1 hour into the drive.
  5. Continue on the dirt road for approximately 45 minutes.
  6. Look for a Moonshine Meadows sign on the right-hand side of the road.
  7. Park in the designated parking area at the entrance gate.

 

Directions from Jarbidge, Nevada:

  1. Head north from the main town of Jarbidge on Charleston-Jarbidge Road.
  2. Drive approximately 4 miles. Keep an eye on your odometer.
  3. Watch for a corral on the west (left-hand) side of the road. This is the parking area.
  4. If you pass the Moonshine Meadows sign, you have driven slightly too far.
Do I need a four wheel drive vehicle to get to Moonshine Meadows?

No. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is not required to reach Moonshine Meadows. The roads are maintained and cleared from both the Idaho and Nevada sides, so a two-wheel-drive vehicle can make the trip.

However, approximately 15 miles of the drive are on dirt roads. Road conditions can vary and may include rocks, potholes, and vegetation in the roadway, depending on when the county has last cleared the road.

A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended but not always necessary. Regardless of your vehicle, good tires and a full-size spare tire are strongly recommended.

How can I get a discounted price?

Refer a friend: If a friend books a stay at Moonshine Meadows and mentions that you referred them, you will receive a $25 coupon code to use toward your next booking.

Promotional discounts: Discount promotions are subject to change. If you receive a checkout coupon code, it will be valid for one year from the date of receipt.

Who do I contact if I need something at Moonshine Meadows?

For medical or fire emergencies: Call 911 first, then contact the Moonshine Meadows main line at 208-410-4456.

For general questions: Check the FAQ page first. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, visit the Contact Us page. You can also call or text the Moonshine Meadows main line at 208-410-4456.

Is there cellular service and WiFi at Moonshine Meadows?

Cellular service: There is no cellular service at Moonshine Meadows or in Jarbidge.

Wi-Fi: Starlink Wi-Fi is available in the meadow camps and kitchen. No password is required.

Jarbidge: There is no public Wi-Fi available in Jarbidge.

How close to my camp can I park?

Use the Moonshine Meadows General Map to find the location of your campsite. All campsites are approximately 100–300 feet from the parking area.

Vehicle access: Unauthorized vehicle access is not permitted in the meadow.

Gear transportation: A rolling handcart is provided at the entrance gate to help transport your gear to your campsite. Please return the cart to the gate immediately after use.

Important: Handcarts must remain inside the fence at all times.

What are the rules at Moonshine Meadows?

Please help us preserve the land, creek, and peaceful atmosphere by following these camp guidelines:

  • Respect the land: Respect the land, creek, wildlife, and quiet atmosphere.
  • No motorized vehicles: Motorized vehicles are not permitted inside fenced areas.
  • Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times. Dogs may never be left unattended in camp structures.
  • Wood fires: All wood fires must be pre-approved, kept small, and contained within designated fire areas.
  • No fireworks: Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
  • No firearms: Firearms are not permitted on the property.
  • Avoid glass: Please avoid bringing glass bottles near camp and creek areas.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol is welcome in moderation. Please be respectful of the atmosphere and other guests.
  • Protect vegetation: Do not cut, damage, or disturb trees or other vegetation.
  • Leave natural features undisturbed: Please leave natural features as you find them, including rocks in the riverbed.
  • Carts: Carts are provided for transporting equipment and supplies only. They are not for riding or play.
  • Pack it in, pack it out: Please take all trash and belongings with you and help us keep the canyon clean.
  • Stay on established paths: Use established paths and trails whenever possible.
  • Expect rustic conditions: This is an off-grid nature stay. Conditions are rustic and may change depending on weather and other natural circumstances.
Is there a place to cook at Moonshine Meadows?

Yes! Moonshine Meadows has a designated shared Camp Kitchen available for guests.

The Camp Kitchen includes:

  • Blackstone grill
  • Propane side burners with cast-iron pans
  • Water kettle
  • Various spices and cooking utensils
  • Propane fire pit for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows
  • Lighting
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • Charging station
  • Wood-burning fireplace stove for warmth and cooking

Please use all cooking and fire equipment responsibly and follow proper fire-safety practices at all times.

Can I build a fire at Moonshine Meadows?

Yes, but only with prior permission. Fires are permitted only in designated fire pits and must comply with current county fire restrictions.

Fire permission must be provided in writing in accordance with Elko County and Jarbidge Volunteer Fire Department requirements.

To request permission, contact Moonshine Meadows through the Contact Us page, or call or text 208-410-4456.