Dispersed camping near Denio, Nevada offers primitive options in high desert terrain at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically, with summer days reaching 90°F and nighttime lows dropping to 40°F. The area borders both Nevada and Oregon with volcanic landscapes, alkali flats, and sagebrush steppe habitat requiring campers to bring all supplies.
What to do
Hiking at Pike Creek: Primitive camping at Pike Creek Primitive Camp at Alvord Hot Springs provides access to the Pike Creek trail. According to Charyl B., "The Pike Creek hike is Amazing too!! Definitely a Must!" This trail follows a creek through a canyon with views of the Steens Mountain.
Cold water swimming: During hot summer days, multiple streams and small reservoirs offer natural cooling options. A visitor to Bog Hot Springs mentioned, "The creek was flowing very fast, fresh, and super cold, still used a filter." Many campers use these cold water sources to balance hot spring soaking.
Night sky viewing: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. Eric L. noted at Bog Hot Springs Dispersed Camping, "If stargazing is your thing, it doesn't get much more dark sky than here." Winter and early spring offer the clearest viewing conditions.
What campers like
Temperature variation in hot springs: The hot springs in the area feature varying temperatures based on location and time of day. Heidi M. observed, "The hot springs were good in the morning and after 6 in the evening (water temp upper 80's lower 90's). Anytime in between they were too hot between 100-120 degrees."
Solitude at dispersed sites: Many campers appreciate the isolation available at certain sites. At Frog Spring in Alvord Desert, ian G. described it as "wide open and secluded at the same time" and noted the "pretty cool site in the desert with mountain ranges surrounding you."
Morning landscape views: The surrounding mountains create dramatic morning vistas, especially after weather systems move through. Cheri S. remembered, "We were on a spring break trip in March and woke up to a dusting of snow, which made the view even more spectacular."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many sites requires careful driving, especially during wet conditions. Martin warns about Onion Valley Reservoir: "The mud was so slick and heavy that the back end of my truck was literally sliding to the valley side of the road. Scary as hell... Do Not Drive When Wet!!"
Wildlife awareness required: Venomous snakes inhabit the area during warmer months. Thomas B. reported, "we saw a rattlesnake in the middle of the road." Several other campers mention ticks and biting insects, particularly from late spring through summer.
Soil conditions affect camping setup: The alkali soil at many sites creates unique challenges. Sarah S. described one location as "Pretty dusty from the fine grain sand on the trails to get there and throughout" and warned "If you're pulling a trailer BE CAREFUL you can get stuck in the softer sand…we almost did."
Tips for camping with families
Creek camping for children: Shallow water features appeal to families with young children. Britney T. found Bog Hot Springs "Great with my young kids" explaining it's a "Slow moving river so it wasn't had to sit in but still very clean."
Visit timing affects experience: Weekday camping typically offers more privacy and fewer day visitors. Conner advised, "go a bit further up stream, yes it's a great idea to camp further up stream so you don't have to deal with visitors and shit who aren't even spending the night."
Pack appropriate footwear: The fine alkali dust requires footwear planning, especially with children. One camper suggested wearing sandals near camp and closed shoes for hiking, noting the powdery soil "gets in your socks" and spreads easily into tents and gear.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle positioning on uneven terrain: Park with stabilizing blocks to achieve level positioning. Sarah S. mentioned, "If you're pulling a trailer BE CAREFUL you can get stuck in the softer sand…we almost did." Most sites lack designated parking areas.
Temperature management strategies: RVs benefit from strategic positioning for shade and wind protection. According to Conner, "It was windy during the day to keep the heat off and strangle not windy at all night. (Peaceful sleep if not for the guests talking) And again fuckin windy in the morning."
Water conservation techniques: With no hookups available, successful RVers bring multiple containers. Chris notes the area is "Primitive camping next to a hot spring" with "no road noise and your surround by desert," requiring complete self-sufficiency for water needs.
