Tent camping sites around Carson City accommodate high-desert conditions with dry, rocky terrain at elevations ranging from 4,700 to 8,000 feet. Temperatures fluctuate significantly, with summer daytime highs reaching 90°F while dropping to 40°F overnight. Most primitive camping options require visitors to navigate unmaintained roads with limited cell service outside developed areas.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: The Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone offers multiple backcountry lakes for adventurous hikers willing to pack in their gear. One camper noted, "We took the water Taxi that shaved about 5 miles off our hike. Our first night we set up camp at tamarack lake then moved up to beautiful aloha lake."
Climbing routes: Rock climbers can access routes at Lovers Leap Campground, which provides walk-in sites close to climbing areas. A visitor mentioned, "The campsite we stayed in was a little bit of a walk in (could not drive to it) but it was beautiful with just a short walk to the crag."
Alpaca viewing: For a unique animal experience, families can watch alpacas roam freely at camping areas. According to one visitor, "The alpacas were plentiful, the views were good and it made for a good night."
What campers like
Proximity to water: Several campsites near Carson City offer creek or lake access. At Kaspian Campground, "There's a stream that follows the dirt road by the campground and theres a picnic area 30 yards from the campsite directly on the lake."
Sunset viewpoints: The higher elevation dispersed sites provide panoramic vistas. One camper at Reno View Dispersed explained, "we stayed and car camped. an awesome view of the lights of Reno. can be very windy but if you get between some of the trees it's not to bad."
Historic sites: Several campgrounds connect to regional history. A camper observed, "The Pony Express trail" offers hiking options near some camping areas.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many best tent camping areas near Carson City require vehicles capable of handling rough terrain. A camper at Reno View warned, "the road is a beast. I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck. DO NOT bring up an RV/Trailer. you'll regret it."
Ground hazards: Some sites have natural obstacles that affect comfort. One camper noted, "Views are unreal but would not suggest walking barefoot, tent camping or bringing dogs up here. The bottoms of our shoes looked like a warzone and when we laid down in our tents we were pricked by goatheads."
Seasonal timing: For Luther Pass and similar areas, arriving early secures better sites. A camper advised, "Luther pass, aka South/North Truckee Rd, was extremely crowded. I would suggest arriving early to get a decent spot."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wildlife viewing: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly animal encounters. One family reported, "Stacey, the owner of the alpacas ranch, was very welcoming and friendly! There were so many alpacas, all very cute and friendly!"
Swimming options: Families appreciate water access during hot months. A 12-year-old camper at Donner Memorial State Park Campground shared, "I had tons of fun. Me and my friends were up there and there was conveniently a campground available in there same campsite. We went in the summer and the water was perfect!"
Climbing opportunities for kids: Several sites have natural features suitable for young climbers. A parent mentioned, "Kids age 0-99 rule the day as there are boulders all around for to climb, a lake to swim in, trails to hike and paved loops for riding bikes."
Tips from RVers
Site restrictions: Many of the tent camping areas near Carson City prohibit larger vehicles. One RVer warned, "Holy Christ for the love of god take away the rv tag. There isn't a single spot for an rv, I tried it with my 19' single axle unit and nearly ripped the spare tire off the back the road was so steep."
Alternative RV options: For RVers seeking camping near Carson City, developed campgrounds offer more suitable options. A camper at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch suggested, "Park anywhere you want in the designated circular driveway on flat grass and dirt."
Accessibility considerations: Some sites accommodate those with mobility needs. One camper shared, "We are traveling to Idaho and stopped here for the night. I am in a wheelchair so we had a handicap sight. All the sights were clean and had nice fire pits with a grill grate."
