Tent camping near Dayton, Nevada offers diverse outdoor experiences in western Nevada's high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 7,000 feet. Seasonal temperature fluctuations create ideal camping conditions in spring and fall, while summer brings warmer daytime temperatures that cool significantly at night. Several sites provide access to water recreation on regional lakes and reservoirs, while others showcase mountain views of the Sierra Nevada range.
What to do
Water activities at Lahontan State Recreation Area: Located near Fallon, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the reservoir. One visitor noted, "I enjoyed this spot though beware, you can get stuck in the sand. Many spots may be difficult to maneuver with a larger rig."
Visit Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch: Experience a unique camping opportunity on a working alpaca farm. A camper described their experience: "I wanted to go car camping and try out my new camping material. This ranch made my first car camping experience a wonder! Stacey, the owner of the alpacas ranch, was very welcoming and friendly!"
Hiking access to Tahoe Rim Trail: Luther Pass Campground provides excellent access to popular trails. A visitor shared, "Great location to the TRT. Stayed here the night before getting on the TRT. Very quiet and plenty of sites open."
Riverside relaxation at Wilson Canyon: The river access provides opportunities for tubing and cooling off during hot weather. A camper described it as "Right next to the water. Good for tubing. Not so much for swimming."
What campers like
Scenic mountain views: Reno View Dispersed offers panoramic vistas of the Reno area. One camper shared, "There are a few sites about 4 miles back on an unmaintained road. The first turn off has the best view with somewhat flat ground for a tent."
Unique animal encounters: Camping near alpacas at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch provides a memorable experience. A visitor reported, "There were so many alpacas, all very cute and friendly! I parked behind a hay stack and next to a picnic table where I could set up my little kitchen."
Lakeside camping: Water proximity is a major draw at Lahontan State Recreation Area. A camper mentioned, "Great place for friends and family to meet. Much nicer with a higher water level."
Quiet, secluded sites: Many tent campers seek out the more private spots available at various locations. At Luther Pass, campers appreciate that sites are "very spacious and dispersed. Awesome location partway up the mountains."
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to some dispersed sites requires careful driving. At Reno View, a camper 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."
Sand hazards near water: Lahontan State Recreation Area has sandy terrain that requires caution. A visitor advised, "Be careful!!! Almost got stuck in the sand while trying to find a spot level enough to park. Many people had dug out around their trailer to get the slides out."
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal facilities. For Luther Pass, a camper noted, "Pit toilets, and river water nearby. Ranger came by early evening to say you're only supposed to camp in the designated sites."
Weather considerations: Wind can be an issue at some locations. At Wilson Canyon, a camper reported, "Smoky air right now so please be careful. No fires."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with facilities: For camping with children, sites with basic amenities make the experience easier. At Donner Memorial State Park Campground, a young camper shared, "I am a 12 year old and I had tons of fun. Me and my friends were up there and there was conveniently a campground available in there same campsite."
Look for water-based recreation: Kids enjoy swimming and water activities. One family at Donner Memorial reported, "We went in the summer and the water was perfect! We went fishing and caught crawfish in a trap underneath the bridge near the front."
Check for ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities. Donner Memorial State Park has "Ranger programs. This is a really fun family campground suitable for tents or trailers/RVs."
Consider private ranch camping: The controlled environment at Olde LYFE Alpacas can be ideal for families. A visitor observed, "Stacey, the host came out to greet us and very helpful and nice. Had the whole place to ourselves……and the roaming Alpacas of course."
Tips for RVers
Scout sandy areas before committing: At Lahontan State Recreation Area, a visitor warned, "Several people used construction generators to power their rigs. Stayed for a weekend. Had a hard time leaving the trailer due to sand in the wind flying at high rates of speed."
Avoid narrow forest roads: Some campgrounds are not suitable for larger vehicles. At Luther Pass, a camper cautioned, "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."
Check seasonal availability: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. Lake Forest Campground closes in the off-season, as one visitor discovered: "The open season is not listed on their website, but I can confirm the campground is closed in November."
Look for dump stations: Limited facilities means planning ahead. At Lahontan State Recreation Area, a camper noted, "No hook ups, they do have a dump station and community water faucets. Vault toilets in many locations, no designated camping spaces. Just find a spot where you fit."
