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Best Campgrounds near Gardnerville, NV

1,156 Reviews

Gardnerville, Nevada and the surrounding Carson Valley region provide access to a range of camping environments from lakefront sites at Lake Tahoe to mountain valley locations. The area includes established campgrounds like Silver City RV Resort in nearby Minden and Nevada Beach Campground at Lake Tahoe, approximately 30 minutes north. Campers can find tent camping, full-hookup RV sites, and free dispersed camping options on public lands. Several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations, particularly in the South Lake Tahoe area, while others primarily serve RV travelers with paved sites and utility connections.

Access to camping areas varies by season, with higher elevation sites typically open May through October. Many Lake Tahoe campgrounds have defined operating seasons, while valley floor locations like Silver City RV Resort remain open year-round. "Beautiful setting below snow capped mountains. This RV resort is situated in the middle of everything! Close to Lake Tahoe, Reno, Virginia City and more," noted one visitor about Silver City. Temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months, especially at higher elevations. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds during peak season, as sites fill quickly. Most dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles for forest road access and typically have 14-day stay limits.

Lakefront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly at Nevada Beach Campground. The campground provides direct access to Lake Tahoe with mountain views. A camper described it as having "beautiful, clean campground very close to the lake" while another mentioned it being "right on the California-Nevada state line near Lake Tahoe. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in the US." Sites at popular locations tend to be closely spaced, especially at RV parks. Several reviewers noted the tight spacing at Silver City RV Resort despite its convenient location and amenities. For those seeking more solitude, dispersed camping options in the Hope Valley area provide more primitive experiences with fewer facilities but greater privacy. Winter camping opportunities are limited primarily to RV parks in the valley areas due to heavy snowfall at higher elevations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Gardnerville, Nevada (308)

    1. Tahoe Valley Campground

    28 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It was very crowded and we stayed in our site and away from public areas. Pool was open as well as restrooms/showers. They talked about bears visiting but we didn’t spot any there."

    "The location is pretty good with close by restaurants and stores. We used our bikes and took some great rides from there. Campsites were nice size, didn’t feel too crammed in."

    2. Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe

    35 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 544-0426

    $47 - $128 / night

    "The campground itself is beautiful, walking distance to Fallen Leaf Lake and short drive to South Lake Tahoe. My husband, my pup and I liked the campsite a lot."

    "From the East you’ll pass thru all of that, past the Camp Richardson and finally turn away from Lake Tahoe into Fallen Leaf Campground."

    3. Zephyr Cove Resort

    26 Reviews
    Zephyr Cove, NV
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 589-4907

    $59 - $94 / night

    "We've always like zephyr cove as it's a bit away from the south shore hectic crowds. Zephyr cove rv park has a ton of rvs, but rent camping as well."

    "Short walk across the highway to the beach, which is nice, but couldn’t get over proximity to other campers. We enjoyed our night but likely won’t visit again."

    4. Campground by the Lake

    17 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 542-6096

    $41 - $45 / night

    "Campground is right on the main drag through town and just across the street and a short walk to the lake, although the lake does not permit dogs in this area."

    "This large campground (which is run by the city) is right in the middle of South Lake Tahoe and across the highway from The Lake."

    5. Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion

    15 Reviews
    Stateline, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 588-5562

    $47 - $49 / night

    "It's right on the California-nevada state line near Lake Tahoe. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in the US. A lot of the campsites have a view of the lake."

    "Campground right on Nevada Beach shore of Lake Tahoe. Very quiet where we were with little to no traffic noise. We were right near Dog Beach where your pooch can play on the beach unleashed."

    6. Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Markleeville, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 694-2248

    $35 / night

    "Camp host was a great help for local recommendations for day trips and directions to a general store about 40min drive away."

    "This is an awesome State Park located in Markleeville, CA. It's in close proximity to Lake Tahoe, CA, and offers many great day hikes for all ability levels in the area."

    7. Silver City RV Resort

    10 Reviews
    Genoa, NV
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 267-3359

    "This RV resort is situated in the middle of everything! Close to Lake Tahoe, Reno, Virginia City and more!"

    "Great location if you want to be near Costco and the capital city.  Great views of the Sierras and the Carson valley. "

    8. RV Village Campground At Camp Richardson Resort — Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

    19 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    17 miles
    +1 (800) 544-1801

    $75 - $92 / night

    "Close to the lake with water, electric, and limited sewer hookups. Though right off the highway, traffic sounds aren’t too bad."

    "The sites toward the back, away from the road, are much quieter and more private. Easy walk to the beach. Campground is busy in the summer months."

    9. Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park

    23 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    19 miles

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Our site was #56 which had a partial view of the lake through the trees in the distance. It was also located directly across from the bathrooms and campground host who’s name was David."

    "4d-120.0849062) while exploring the Emerald Bay section of Lake Tahoe."

    10. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    16 miles

    "Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    "come early for a spot. nice views around. lots and lots of bugs. i sleep in my car and crack the windows a little bit and i woke up to a shit ton of bugs that got in my car. even more surrounding the cars"

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Recent Camping Photos near Gardnerville, NV

284 Photos of 308 Gardnerville Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Gardnerville, NV

1156 Reviews of 308 Gardnerville Campgrounds

  • Summer C.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Shamrock RV Park

    Overflow sucks

    Not a fan. Came for the Reno Balloon Race; booked it 4 months in advance. But they only had overflow available. You have to call to make a reservation. They didn't disclose to me that the overflow is just a parking lot where their warehouse is(on the other side of their property). I think this should be on the website because otherwise, you have no idea what you signed up for until you arrive. There's no sewer hookup; you can dump at the end. You have to share the water hose with other Rv's during your stay. So you fill up your tank in the beginning. The electric hookup was fine and was 30 amp. However there was no grass for my dog to potty. Pottying my dog at night was not pleasant. The pool is under repair and currently not an available amenity, which should be disclosed on their website. The lot abutts a gravel company that transports rocks and it gets kind of noisy and dusty, even on weekends. I paid$50/day. I won't be staying there again. But the positives were that the staff were friendly and the place is clean.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Good spot for a night or two but nothing here

    Easy to get to and easy to park at although not a great spot for tents. Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees.

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • jay B.
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Lakeside Campground

    Great spot to dry camp near Tahoe

    This campground is a hidden gem—just 10 minutes from Truckee and about 20 minutes to Tahoe. We stayed in site #6, which was a first-come, first-served spot. According to the camp host, weekdays are usually easy to snag a site, but you’ll definitely want a reservation if you're planning to stay Friday through Sunday. Most sites offer beautiful views of the lake, and many are on level ground, making setup easy. One tip: avoid site #8 unless you're in a pinch—it’s surrounded by other sites (island spot) and doesn’t offer much privacy, but it would work for a quick overnight stay. The campground feels spacious, peaceful, and scenic. Just keep in mind there are no showers or running water, so come prepared for dry camping. That wasn’t an issue for us since our camper is set up for boondocking. All in all, an awesome spot—we’ll definitely be back!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Carson RV Resort

    Clean, nice, loved the staff!

    laundry room, showers, bathroom, pool were all very clean! The staff was super helpful, friendly, and available whenever we needed them. Would stay here again!

  • Rajesh N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great area for car camping

    It is a great site just near the road. We arrived on Monday afternoon and there were lots of places. There were other people but everyone has enough space. There’s a pit restroom which seems comparatively new. We didn’t get bugs problems. We car camped.

  • Greg C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Kyburz Flats

    Quiet woods and fields

    Road is rough, especially after first mile to interpretive site. Looks like a few spots there you could camp. The last mile gets rougher. Was fine in my 2wd van but have high clearance and was dry. Might be worse if muddy or low clearance vehicle. Also, coordinates lead to historic sheep camp site. Can probably camp next to it but better spots just beyond though road gets even rougher.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Developed 7 — Lahontan State Recreation Area

    My own little nook

    I enjoyed this spot though beware, you can get stuck in the sand. Many spots may be difficult to maneuver with a larger rig. I did get stuck and luckily someone left a car mat in the sand that they used to get out. It did get windy at the night I was there but calmed down by 10PM. My only annoyance was the poopy smell coming off the water. Not great, but lovely view.

Guide to Gardnerville

Camping near Gardnerville, Nevada, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby. Many campers enjoy the breathtaking views and the chance to explore nature. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is remote and picturesque, making it an ideal spot for hikers."
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, you can find spots for kayaking and swimming. A camper shared, "The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor noted, "I saw Bald Eagles and Comorans with their babies. Butterflies, chipmunks, and a few squirrels."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review highlighted, "Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. One camper remarked, "The restrooms were clean, and the campground itself was decent."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a major draw. A visitor said, "Breathtakingly beautiful," capturing the essence of the surroundings.

What you should know:

  • Bear Activity: Be prepared for bear encounters. A camper warned, "There was a lot of bear activity, but we loved it here," emphasizing the importance of food storage.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. One review stated, "The showers were perfect. Toilets clean," but also noted that some sites might not have showers.
  • Seasonal Access: Check the camping season before you go. For example, one campground is open from May 16 to October 11, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One reviewer mentioned, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on little ones, especially with wildlife around. A camper shared, "We had a bear visit our campsite, so it’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes."
  • Plan for Comfort: Bring extra blankets or sleeping bags for chilly nights. A family noted, "It ended up getting pretty chilly here as well - high 50s, low 40s."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. One RVer said, "The sites are small but have full hookups," which is great for larger rigs.
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds have dirt roads that can get dusty. A reviewer mentioned, "My biggest issue with this campground is the dirt. It’s this ash dirt that gets everywhere."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. A camper advised, "Definitely book six months in advance."

Camping near Gardnerville, Nevada, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there campsites available year-round in Gardnerville?

While Gardnerville itself has limited year-round camping options, several nearby campgrounds operate seasonally. Silver City RV Resort near Minden is open year-round and provides full hookups for winter camping. Many Forest Service campgrounds in the area, including those along Highway 88, typically close during winter months due to snow and freezing conditions. Washoe Lake State Park Campground remains open year-round with basic facilities, offering a convenient option within a short drive from Gardnerville. Always check current operating status before planning a winter trip, as weather conditions can affect accessibility even at year-round sites.

What are the best RV parks in Gardnerville, NV?

The Gardnerville area offers several excellent RV parks for travelers. Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch provides a unique camping experience with friendly alpacas and spacious parking areas behind haystacks. This private ranch offers a welcoming atmosphere and is perfect for those seeking a different kind of RV stay. For those willing to travel a short distance, Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion near Lake Tahoe accommodates RVs and provides beautiful lake views with well-maintained facilities. Many sites have stunning views of Lake Tahoe, making it worth the short drive from Gardnerville for a premium RV camping experience.

What are the best things to do while camping near Gardnerville, Nevada?

The Gardnerville area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Fishing is exceptional at Kit Carson Campground, located on a fork of the Carson River. The West Fork of the Carson River provides excellent spots for anglers throughout the valley. For water activities, visit Granite Flat near the Truckee River, where you can enjoy refreshing water and memorable floating experiences. Hiking trails abound in the surrounding mountains and forests. Bird watching and wildlife observation are popular at nearby natural areas. Gardnerville also serves as a convenient base for day trips to Lake Tahoe, Markleeville's hot springs, and historic Virginia City, offering a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.

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