Camping near Bunkerville, Nevada offers access to desert landscapes where summer temperatures can exceed 100°F from June through August. Located at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, this area sits along the Virgin River with surrounding sandstone formations and mesa structures creating a unique Mojave Desert camping environment. Winter visitors experience mild daytime temperatures between 45-65°F with occasional freezing nights.
What to do
Desert Hiking: Gold Butte National Monument trails provide diverse terrain for hikers seeking solitude. "There were 2 others camped there. Sight seeing was cut short because of the wind. Getting out of the vehicle was always work," notes Michael G., highlighting the sometimes challenging desert conditions.
Virgin River Exploration: Virgin River Camp offers direct river access for cooling off during hot months. "Great site looking over Virgin River," says Roger R., with sites providing views and recreation opportunities along the waterway.
Scenic Drives: The roads through Gold Butte National Monument offer remote exploration opportunities. "The paved portion of the road is really rough. But after spending the day on the dirt portion, it felt quite luxurious," reports Michael G. High-clearance vehicles recommended for accessing deeper areas.
Stargazing: Virgin River Gorge offers exceptional night skies. "The night sky was so beautiful with the moon and stars! There aren't any lights around the campground so on a night with no moon, I'm sure you could see EVERYTHING," writes Tarah S.
What campers like
Accessible Desert Camping: Virgin River Gorge Recreation Area Campground provides developed sites in a canyon setting. "Easy to access off of I15 with paved roads the whole way. Loads of sites, but each was quite small. $16 to reserve (provides a sheltered spot) and $8 to walk-up," notes emma L.
Reasonable Prices: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Virgin River Gorge's affordability. "This is a low-budget BLM campground, with low-budget fees: $8.00/night and only $90/month," reports Colette K.
Proximity to Multiple Recreation Areas: Sun Resorts RV Park serves as a convenient base. "Nice area, nice park, lots to do in the area, and great people. So much nicer than stopping in Vegas," shares Erin H.
Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. "Bathrooms and showers in RV park area are air conditioned and very clean," notes E V. about Casa Blanca Resort Casino.
What you should know
Weather Considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F in direct sun. "It hit 100° while we were here having our AC looked at," reports Erin H. from Sun Resorts RV Park. Winter nights can drop below freezing.
Road Conditions: Access to remote camping areas requires preparation. "The road in is really rough (and gets rougher the further in you go), but the camping is nice. No amenities I saw besides a couple Port-o-Potties in the Whitney Pocket area," warns Meghan B. about Gold Butte.
Cell Coverage: Signal varies significantly throughout the region. "Cell service is sporadic--typically have to climb a mountain/hill if you need reception," notes Meghan B. regarding Gold Butte National Monument.
Limited Services: Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities. "If you want clean and convenient, this is a great stop," says Patrick J. about Mesquite Trails RV Resort, contrasting with more primitive options in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Amenity Selection: Atlatl Rock Campground offers developed sites with services. "Comfortable camping. One of the campgrounds even has showers. Some really cool spots tucked deep in the rocks," shares Amber D.
Wildlife Viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting desert wildlife. "Evidence of big horn sheep all through camp," notes Amber D. about Valley of Fire State Park.
Temperature Management: Plan activities for cooler hours. "The stay here was great, I went during the week so it was not busy. I had a great time but it isn't called the Valley of Fire for no reason it was boiling even at night," warns Brielle A.
Water Requirements: Pack more water than you think necessary. Families need 1-2 gallons per person per day for drinking and cleaning in this arid environment.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection: Look for pull-through sites when available. "We had a gravel pull through. Plenty big to stay hitched up," reports Patrick J. about Mesquite Trails RV Resort.
Dump Station Access: Plan for waste management. "Easy and convenient stop for water and dump. It has a big pay parking lot," notes Amanda V. about Virgin Valley Food Mart.
Leveling Preparation: Solstice Motorcoach Resort provides well-maintained sites. "Built for big rigs, this place is conveniently located and has level spots and a killer view," shares Justin C.
Pet-Friendly Considerations: Many campgrounds welcome pets but require leashes. "They even have a dog wash," notes Charles S. about Mesquite Trails RV Resort, making it ideal for pet-friendly camping near Bunkerville.
