A mining camp, or mining community, is a temporary settlement established near a mine as an area for workers to live during their work shifts. The camp can also store auxiliary supplies for the mine. Historically, mining camps have sometimes transformed to permanent towns over time; although this is rarer today, as mining camps are often located in very remote areas that are unlikely develop in the near future. A modern day example of a mining camp that eventually became a town is Elko, Nevada. The population and economy of Elko varies with production of the mine and the economic value of gold in a boom and bust fashion.

Figure: Mining camps are sometimes necessary when operations are located in very remote areas. Camps allow workers to live nearby the mine during their work shifts, and supply the mine and employees with basic necessities.