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Best Camping in Nevada: Desert Sites, Mountain Campgrounds & Free BLM Land

3,041 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Nevada's diverse camping landscape spans from full-service RV resorts in Las Vegas to remote dispersed camping in the high desert, covering more than 500 campgrounds and campsites across the state. Atlatl Rock Campground at Valley of Fire State Park offers established sites with electric hookups and modern amenities, while Lovell Canyon provides free dispersed camping in more primitive settings. The region includes a mix of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, state parks, and private campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations offering year-round access despite Nevada's extreme temperature variations.

Road quality varies considerably throughout Nevada's camping areas, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most established campgrounds like Cathedral Gorge State Park and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area maintain paved access roads, while backcountry camping often involves navigating unmarked dirt roads. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F at lower elevations, while mountain campgrounds offer relief with temperatures 20-30 degrees cooler. Fire restrictions are common during the dry summer months, particularly in desert areas. A visitor noted, "Roughly 30 minutes from the main highway, tucked away in a canyon past some quarry work and ranch land. Roads in the campsite are slightly overgrown, but 4WD should not be needed though consider high clearance."

Campers consistently mention Nevada's dramatic landscape views as a primary attraction across various sites. Those seeking solitude appreciate dispersed camping options like Water Canyon Recreation Area, which provides a more secluded experience than developed campgrounds. Valley of Fire and Cathedral Gorge receive particularly high ratings for their striking geological features. Several reviewers highlighted the contrast between daytime heat and comfortable evening temperatures at higher elevations. A camper described one mountain location: "Visited June 22nd it was 110 in the city but up here at 7700 feet it was a nice 85-90 during the day and a cool 65-70 at night." Many Nevada campgrounds also feature minimal light pollution, creating exceptional stargazing opportunities throughout the state.

Best Camping Sites in Nevada (497)

    1. Atlatl Rock Campground — Valley of Fire State Park

    93 Reviews
    Overton, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 397-2088

    $10 / night

    "The fee system feels a little confusing but it's basically $15 park entrance fee, $10 more dollars to camp, and another $10 for hookups (50&30&20 power and water only, free dump and water (and"

    "Next time we are in Nevada we will be back here!"

    2. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - Red Rock Campground

    75 Reviews
    Blue Diamond, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 515-5387

    $12 - $80 / night

    "Summer time might not be the best time to try to camp in southern Nevada but with mild fall and winter this campsite leaves a lot of options for those looking for an outdoor adventure."

    "We had our own toilet, was clean, there are no showers but water was available by a tap outside. Abundant Parking."

    3. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    70 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    $20 / night

    "Being Nevada it was pretty hot and humid next to the lake, but it was actually a good place to camp with plenty of birds, nice flowers and easy access to the lake for swimming, boating, and such."

    "Took my kids and my mom camping for a little vacation away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. I chose Boulder Beach campground as it was our first time and didn't want to be too far from home."

    4. Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping (Spring Mountain)

    60 Reviews
    Blue Diamond, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 515-5000

    "It's a beautifully rugged area, lots of pull of camp sites spread around. Can be busy and harder to find spots, but further back should have spots."

    "Quiet, secluded spot between Las Vegas and Pahrump Nevada. First come, first served but it was very quiet when we were there."

    5. Water Canyon Recreation Area

    46 Reviews
    Winnemucca, NV
    Website
    +1 (775) 623-1500

    "Sites are well layed out and sit right next to a small creek.  Nice play to stay when driving through Nevada."

    "This was a roadside pull off close to a little stream. The road was busy throughout the night and morning. I arrived at 10:30pm and got one of the last two spots on a weekday."

    6. Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort

    44 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 260-2000

    "Oasis is a great location to spend a night or two if you want to jaunt into Vegas for bit. It’s also very central as an overnight for heading into Utah or Nevada from SoCal."

    "This place is an Oasis, away from the hustle and bustle. Refill propane on-site. The only negative thing is they do not provide valet trash pickup(as mentioned by a staff member)."

    7. Welcome Station RV Park

    37 Reviews
    Wells, NV
    Website
    +1 (775) 752-2736

    $25 - $42 / night

    "Compared to the surround areas, this place was truly an oasis in the desert as others have said. The hosts were super nice."

    "In the middle of the Nevada desert along I80, there's a nice RV oasis for a stopover for travelers. "

    8. Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam's Town

    41 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    Website
    +1 (702) 454-8055

    "During our recent trip to Las Vegas, we chose to stay at KOA Sam's Town, and our experience was positive overall."

    "Sorry tent campers Nevada doesn’t allow us!!! So make sure you are prepared for a different option such as lake mead or red rock."

    9. Upper Campground - Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge

    37 Reviews
    Alamo, NV
    Website
    +1 (775) 725-3417

    "Stopped here short of intended destination due to lateness of the hour and long drive. Great sites along the lake with tables and fire rings and fireplaces."

    "We got in on a Thursday night right around 6:30 pm."

    10. Cathedral Gorge State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Panaca, NV
    Website
    +1 (775) 728-4460

    $10 - $25 / night

    "One of the best hidden gems in Nevada! Great camping with clean restrooms and well maintained campgrounds. Plenty of good trails nooks and crannies to explore. Highly recommended!!"

    "Nice little campground located in the Cathedral Gorge State Park in Eastern central Nevada. Sites are first come first serve. Each has Electrical hook ups, but no sewer/dump facilities."

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  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2026

    McWilliams Campground

    Camp among bristle cone pines

    This campsite is located in a beautiful canyon near Mt Charleston. We had a flat and relatively private campsite on the top loop (Dolomite). The water spigots in this loop were not working, so needed to walk down to the next loop for water. There was a clean bathroom with flush toilets at the bottom of the loop. Each campsite is spacious with a parking pad, large pad with a table, fire ring and BBQ, and a separate flat site for a tent.

    Our campsite was level but many aren’t. There is a 200-300 foot gain from the bottom to the top of the campsite. Most campsites require a short walk up or down to get to the bathrooms and water. There is short-term parking at each bathroom for those who would prefer not to walk. Fire wood can be purchased for $20/bundle at the bottom of the campsite from a vending machine.

    The Lower Bristlecone Trail starts near the bottom of the campground. My hiking app shows a ~6.5 loop, but closed at ~2.75 due to slides. The upper bristle cone trail is completely closed per a ranger we spoke with.

    Temperatures in the valley were >100, but were a welcome 20 degrees cooler at the campsite.

    There is a cool bay exhibit at the top of the Dolomite loop.

    Enjoyed our 2 night stay in this lovely spot.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2026

    Baker Creek Campground — Great Basin National Park

    Camping sites with a view

    Our site was flat and a brook that lulled us to sleep. Woke up after a light rain at night to an incredible pine smell. Very quite and piece full . Pit toilets are clean and do not smell bad. No bugs! There is a 3 mile dirt road to get here with some wash board.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2026

    Humboldt National Forest Angel Lake Campground

    Alpine lake and high elevation

    Beautiful alpine lake at 8400ft elevation. $9 per night with pass. Clean pit toilets. No water and no cell service. Considerably cooler due to elevation, but absolutely no shade coverage. Stayed in spot 5 and it was tight, but a nice space. Would not recommend any RV’s. Spots are short and tight and drive up the mountain is steep and windy.

  • Karen B.
    Jul. 22, 2026

    Pine Creek Campground

    This campground never disappoints

    Solitude. Fishing. Wilderness trail access. Nighttime star gazing.  Can't say enough how glad this little area was given some love and rebuilt.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2026

    Sacramento Pass BLM Campground

    Beautiful views and amenities

    I stayed up in the house camp area and had a concrete pad, covered picnic table, and metal fire ring. There was a bathroom up there and another at the lower level. The road was pretty good. There are more dispersed sites available via dirt roads if you want to be back from the campground. It was very nice for a BLM site. There is a fun hiking trailhead right off the horse area. Beautiful view in all directions. A few bugs.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2026

    Saguaro RV Park at Cactus Petes Resort Casino

    Great opportunity to get rest in the desert !

    This is a Rv resort campground 30amp 120v water and gray tank dump only! But there is a black tank dump station! This is our second stay passing through! And yes we will stYhere again!

  • Morgan R.
    Jul. 20, 2026

    DeathValley Camp

    Very Unique & Memorable Site!

    This is a hidden gem for sure! Our family loved staying here. It was so clean and efficient. Bathroom and showers were great. We loved having the shuffleboard, games, and hang out spot. The view was amazing! Host was very nice! We would definitely stay here again.

Guide to Nevada

Camping in Nevada offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, Nevada has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: Check out the beautiful scenery at Clark Park. One camper mentioned, “Located just around the corner from a full service Maverick truck stop, this quiet RV Park is a convenient stop along I80.”
  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: At Mill Creek Recreation Area, you can enjoy walking around the lake and spotting local wildlife. A visitor noted, “Was nice to walk the lake & hang out on the dock.”
  • Hot Springs: Don’t miss the chance to soak at Spencer Hot Springs. One reviewer said, “Beautiful views and love the Burro visits at dusk.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Bob Scott Campground stated, “Flush toilets, some shade, BBQ grills and picnic tables.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of places like Hickison Petroglyph. One camper shared, “Good for 2 days. Trash, and pit toilets available. Free for 14 days.”
  • Convenient Locations: Campgrounds like Austin RV Park are appreciated for their accessibility. A visitor mentioned, “Convenient and cheap in the middle of Nevada.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mill Creek Recreation Area, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A camper noted, “Showers had hot water but were kinda gross.”
  • Seasonal Access: Certain campgrounds, such as Big Creek Campground, are only open from May 15 to November 1. One reviewer said, “Gets busy on holiday weekends but decent during the week.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Spencer Hot Springs mentioned, “We woke up to the sound of wild burrows and coyotes.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like East Campground — South Fork State Recreation Area that have amenities for kids. A reviewer said, “Plenty of space for the kids to run around and bike around the campsite.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. One camper at Coyote Cove noted, “The area offers opportunities for water sports of all kinds.”
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Since some campgrounds lack markets, it’s smart to bring your own food. A visitor at Bob Scott Campground mentioned, “Water is listed as non-potable.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to verify if the campground has electric hookups. A reviewer at Clark Park said, “The sewer, water, electricity and cable TV hookups are all in great working order.”
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV parks, like Austin RV Park, have tight parking. One camper noted, “Tight parking spaces. Full hook up.”
  • Consider Off-Peak Times: To avoid crowds, try camping during the week. A visitor at Big Creek Campground shared, “Gets busy on holiday weekends but decent during the week.”

Camping in Nevada can be a fantastic adventure if you know what to expect and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

What desert camping options are available in Nevada?

Nevada's desert landscape offers numerous camping opportunities across the state. Front Sight Campground provides a massive flat area for dispersed camping on BLM land, though campers should be aware of the adjacent active gun range. Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge Dispersed Camping offers a remote desert experience with views of snow-capped mountains and marshes where wildlife like white pelicans can be observed. For those seeking amenities in the desert, RV resorts like Desert Skies in Mesquite provide full hookups with spacious sites. Other desert camping options include Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas, Lovell Canyon for cooler high-desert camping, and numerous BLM lands throughout the state that allow free dispersed camping with varying levels of accessibility.

Where are the best places to camp in Nevada?

Nevada offers diverse camping experiences across the state. For those seeking an escape from Las Vegas heat, Fletcher View provides cooler temperatures just 40 minutes from the city, with temperatures ranging from 64°F at night to 78°F during the day. Water enthusiasts will appreciate Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which offers beautiful waterfront dispersed camping, fishing opportunities, and scenic sunsets. Other notable options include Valley of Fire State Park for dramatic red rock formations, Cathedral Gorge for unique erosional features, and Big Creek Campground near Austin for creek-side camping surrounded by aspens. Nevada's camping options range from developed campgrounds with amenities to remote dispersed sites on public lands, providing something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.

What are the differences between northern Nevada camping and other regions?

Northern Nevada camping differs significantly from the southern region in several key aspects. In northern Nevada, Humboldt National Forest Angel Creek Campground represents the more mountainous terrain and forested landscapes typical of the region. These higher-elevation campgrounds offer relief from summer heat and showcase aspen groves and creek-side settings. Big Creek Campground near Austin exemplifies this with its location in a beautiful canyon filled with aspens. Northern Nevada generally experiences cooler temperatures and more seasonal variation than the southern desert regions. While southern Nevada camping often centers around Lake Mead, Valley of Fire, and desert landscapes with year-round accessibility, northern sites may close seasonally due to snow. The north also offers more opportunities for creekside camping, wildlife viewing, and fall foliage experiences compared to the stark desert beauty of southern Nevada.

Keep Exploring

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