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Settle into primitive camping along the edge of Granite Mountain Reservoir, but be aware that there are no restrooms or trash facilities on site. If you’re going to build a campfire, be sure to check into seasonal fire restrictions and only use preexisting fire rings. Practice Leave No Trace Methods whenever possible, and remember to pack out everything you bring in. That, and before casting into bodies of water in the Silver State, be sure to get yourself legal with a proper Nevada Fishing License. Grab one in advance at NDOW’s website, and if you’re already here, get one at one of the state’s many license agents.
Semi-primitive camping facilities are located within the Soldier Meadows Hot Spring Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). Facilities in this area include primitive campsites (parking areas and fire pits), a vault toilet, a primitive cabin, and walking trails that lead to the hot springs. There are seven defined campsites in the ACEC. Five are located in the Hot Creek Campground, one is at the Cabin Site, and the last is located above the Hidden Spring to the west of the main hot springs area. The primitive cabin is available for public use on a first-come first-served basis. Note that Soldier Meadows is one of the most highly visited areas in the NCA. If you are looking for solitude, this may not be your place.
Guide
So quiet and peaceful. Nobody else was here but me. Barely hear minimal traffic from the road. Sadly an overcast while I stayed one night, but I got to see the last full moon, winter moon, of the year rise from behind the mountain ridge in the north. Looked like the sun rising. I will be returning to star gaze on clear skies. Oh yeah, definitely weird rock formations to check out.
Traveler
Mixed review here. It’s my understanding that this “campground” is the result of an agreement between the State and a landowner- basically the state allowed the landowner to build a reservoir and in exchange the landowner lets the public camp next to the lake.
While I never met the landowner, I got the impression from their signs/warnings/rules at the gate that they don’t really like this arrangement anymore. Really, name me another campground where it’s against the rules to pee on the ground? Whatever…..
In addition, about 20 minutes after we parked a fellow drove by on an ATV (gave us a wave). I can’t help but think we were being watched - or at least there was a camera aimed at the entrance gate. If either was the case - not cool.
As for the camping- there were no real sites on the south end of the lake, rather just a few fire rings that you could pull up to. No water. No privy. But it was free - so you get what you pay for.
The reservoir is a true oasis - lots of birds and plenty of fish jumping. Bugs weren’t bad for us in October. The night sky was incredible.
ScoutTried to go to the school bus thing but road got too technical so camped out near a mine, epic!
Guide
My first time to the Back Rock Desert. I have always avoid going to events on the playa due to not wanting my adventure van full of that nasty white chalk like dust. But, I was invited to attend the Friends of Black Rock meteor shower viewing party. It was great. The Friends of Black Rock put on a wonderful event that included dinner and breakfast the next day, live music, a talk about the importance of dark sky's, black light scorpion search, geyser trip, hot springs trip, and a stewardship clean-up. In my favor was little to no wind, so almost no dust except for what I kicked-up driving the 6 miles in and out of the viewing location on the playa. I will definitely go to future events, except for the Burning Man dust festival unless I go in someone else's rig.
Traveler
Sadly we were delayed and would not have arrived at Pyramid Lake until 2am so we didn’t stay. We did however visit the lake and museum and visitor center and it was well worth it! We will definitely be back to try and camp here again. We spoke with the locals and they confirmed that once you purchase the camping permit ($15) then you just drive to the lake and find a spot - very rustic, very cool! The lake itself is absolutely beautiful. We can’t wait to come back… maybe during a full moon and fishing season! Be sure to visit the museum and definitely stop at the INDIAN TACO spot on the way to the lake… it was delicious!
TravelerWe stayed for 3 days on the beach next to the picnic leantos. We were the only ones camping on the beach. Very quiet. We have a 24' Class C motorhome. The beach was very clean and orderly. The Marina has a great store for just about anything you may need. The staff was very helpful.
GuideThis was my third trip to the Playa, but the first time I went without there being an official event.
My favorite part was the trip to hot springs. They were amazing.
We camped in the middle of the Playa a good ways away from the other people that were there.
Suggestions:
LegendThis is privately owned land that allows dispersed camping and fishing. As we were checking out this entire area looking for a place for the night we got so used to being the only people around and assumed this place would be the same, but wow, not at all the case! As we drove up we saw so many giant RVs, all crammed together in a row, generators going. Not the place for us at all.
We went in and checked it out but definitely were not interested in staying the night. Granted, it’s a Saturday night so maybe it’s quieter during the week. We did see a lone RV along the other side of the water so if we’d been inclined to do so we might have found a quieter spot, but honestly we just wanted to get out of there. The road is really rutted(dried out) but it didn’t seem to have affected the access for all those huge RVs that were camped there. But maybe watch for that in the rainy season.
No amenities or services here. Pack out your trash. 14 day stay limit. Please keep this area clean so the owners continue to allow people to camp here. No cell service here and close the gate behind you.
LegendCool BLM dispersed camping in the Black Rock Desert. We had no trouble getting to this spot in our 26ft class c, but saw some dried out ruts in the ground so we played it safe and stuck to the edges.
Easy access from the town of Gerlach.
This area is just wide open, no shade, no greenery, nowhere to hide from the incessant wind. We had cell reception here, though the Verizon phone was in roaming mode in this area.
Fun place to visit but the vast open flatness and the wind made us move on. Watch for the muddy ground, it can look deceptively dry and then you’ll find yourself sunk and stuck!
LegendThis place is everything we look for when boondocking. It's quiet, open, easy to get to with our class c, flat(ish), cell service, and places to hike/walk around. There was nobody else around when we stayed here for 2 nights in May.
The road is nearby but barely visible and you can hardly hear the cars. The rocks (tufas) are really neat and fun to climb.
There's absolutely no shade so the sun makes it feel hotter than it is. And the wind comes through somewhat unpredictably so we couldn't keep our awning out.
It's surprisingly clean, I mean there's some trash which is to be expected, but not huge amounts of it.
There are a couple of little narrow roads you can take to find a more secluded spot, but I wouldn't attempt it unless your vehicle can handle it. There are a couple of random big dips to get past, and really there aren't very many camping opportunities past the big giant open area by the rocks. The big main area is huge and would easily fit several campers.
Great place to boondock!
TravelerCamping here was great. Many different spots from able to use the marina or at the boat launch still on pavement or just right down on the beach next to the water. Only biggest issue is there is no trees. So no shade. Bring your easy ups.
TravelerCamp on Pryamid lake shore or full hookups @marina RV park tents trailers etc. Indian Reservation permits required. Fireworks sold & allowed designated areas. Also, fishing is great and seasonal. Activte Quiet community 
Scout
Early April we were the only people there. Fantastic hot springs and stars.
TravelerWent here the first weekend of December. I say perfect winter camp spot because I am going to assume a place like this gets crazy packed in the summer. It was a little cold at night, however, the hot springs are right next to the campsites. The campsites are nice and spread out. There’s also a pit toilet. No running water so make sure you pack enough. There is a little cabin to check out or even stay in, but I recommend a campsite because then you’re closer to the hot springs. 40 miles on a dirt road so just be ready for that with a proper vehicle. Overall super cool spot and will be returning.
GuideBeautiful $15 permit and you find your own spot. You can be as faraway or as close to other campers as you want. No hookups or services but the water is perfect for swimming,fishing or boating. Bonus.....4th of July fireworks are permitted and the reservation sales awesome ones.( we are just observers)
TravelerWords cannot explain this enchanted place. Located just outside of Reno , this is where the locals play. With the most beautiful sunny, and sunsets I've ever seen this week is the only lake in the world you can catch lahontan cutthroat trout. October 1st opening day. About 11 dollars a night to tent camp , or bring an r.v. for your glamping experience. The Paiute Native Americans reside here , and I have a wonderful relationship with them volunteering picking up the area in my spare time . This is Americas best kept secret. If you camp here, make sure you leave it clean when departing . Lots to do here.
RangerThis is a nice jumping off point for checking out the pyramid lake area. Beautiful high desert lake. Note that this is primarily an RV park and that if you are okay camping rough, there is a better campground just north of this place.
Gerlach, Nevada, offers a unique experience for pet owners looking to enjoy the great outdoors with their furry friends. With a variety of well-reviewed spots that welcome pets, you can explore the stunning landscapes while ensuring your pets are part of the adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gerlach, NV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gerlach, NV is Three Mile Playa - Black Rock Desert with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gerlach, NV?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 dog-friendly camping locations near Gerlach, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.
