Camping spots near Alamo, Nevada range from simple BLM sites to state park facilities across the high desert terrain of Lincoln County, where elevations vary from 3,400 to over 5,000 feet. Most camping areas sit at the transition between the Mojave and Great Basin deserts, creating unique plant communities and wildlife viewing opportunities. Weather fluctuates dramatically between seasons with summer temperatures routinely exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Pahranagat NWR: This wildlife refuge protects critical wetland habitat where numerous bird species can be observed. "Great place if you are a birder," notes a camper at Upper Campground - Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge includes a 3-mile loop trail around the lake suitable for hiking and biking. "Husband walked and biked the nice 3 mile loop around the lake," reports another visitor.
Hiking at Kershaw-Ryan State Park: Located about 45 minutes from Alamo, this state park offers several hiking trails with desert and mountain views. "The short overlook trail is absolutely stunning. Our trip was in Fall so the colors were amazing," writes a reviewer at Kershaw-Ryan State Park. The park contains natural springs creating a desert oasis effect with surprising vegetation.
Fishing for beginners: Upper Pahranagat Lake provides accessible fishing opportunities. A camper shared, "The kids caught their first fish at this site as well, for that I will always appreciate this hidden gem. They caught catfish, perch and a huge carp."
What campers like
Free lakeside camping: Campers consistently praise the no-cost waterfront sites at Pahranagat NWR. "This is a great stop when headed north or south. We always visit twice a year!! It's well kept and quiet. Perfect spot," notes a recent visitor. Another mentions, "Free sites. Fire rings and grills. Immaculate vault toilets."
Affordable full hookups: The Alamo Nevada Rodeo Grounds offers exceptional value for RVers needing utilities. "Full hookups for $13 (plus $5 to use sewer), level sites and 4 bars on Verizon," reports one camper. Another mentions, "There was no one around the entire night, and for the price, it was very nice with all the hookups for $13.00."
Desert solitude at dispersed sites: BLM land near Alamo provides isolation for campers seeking privacy. At Outcrop Rock, a visitor noted, "Fun little spot for the night right off the 93. BLM land. You can see two distinct rock croppings off the highway... pretty secluded. The back drop of the rocks makes it feel even more remote."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many camping areas require travel on unpaved routes. At #375 off Extraterrestrial Highway, a camper advised, "The road in is a bit rocky, but not too bad." For most dispersed camping areas, high-clearance vehicles provide better access.
Weather extremes require planning: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. "It was hot, temp 95 but had a breeze all day," reported one Pahranagat camper. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions.
Limited services available: Alamo has minimal services with restricted hours. "Alamo is a small Mormon town, so it felt safe even though we were the only people in the area," noted a camper. "The Sinclair gas station has a well-stocked grocery store, but they're a dry county so if you want a beer you need to go 7 miles up to Hiko."
Highway noise affects some sites: Roadside campgrounds experience traffic sounds. A Pahranagat camper noted, "Unfortunately there is constant road noise from the main road being about 75 feet away from the camp sites, and numerous cars hit the rumble strips causing even more noise."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife at Pahranagat NWR. One family reported, "The kids woke me up super excited at 2 in the morning telling me they could hear coyotes." Beyond coyotes, families can spot various birds, rabbits, and other desert wildlife.
Wading pool at Kershaw-Ryan: The state park offers unique water features for children. "There is a spring water filled wading pool, many beautiful flowers and trees," notes a camper. "During summer it's a nice refreshing place for children to play."
Recreation facilities: Picketts RV Park provides convenient services for families. "Pretty greenery and a stream that runs through this little RV spot. Well kept with full hookups 30/50 amp, cable TV, WiFi, clean bathrooms with tub and shower," reports a visitor. The proximity to town makes resupplying easier with children.
Tips from RVers
Level sites availability: Many RVers mention site levelness as a key consideration. At Pahranagat, one camper shared, "We enjoyed our stay at site 3 which is really site 2&3 (buddy sites). A great view and big enough for our 33 ft 5th wheel and truck. Level enough that we didn't unhook."
Hookup options: For those needing full services, Picketts RV Park offers complete utilities. "Clean place with level spots. Ryan was very accommodating and cordial! Paid $36 for the night. The Sinclair/C store was next door and very clean too," notes a recent visitor.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies throughout the region. "I couldn't get any network connection through my cell phone, so it was a good thing we had Wi-Fi," reports a camper at Picketts. At Outcrop Rock, a camper noted, "I had good Verizon cell service," while at the Rodeo Grounds, another mentioned "4 bars on Verizon."
