Best Dispersed Camping near Hawthorne, NV

The landscape surrounding Hawthorne, Nevada features predominantly dispersed camping options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, with Walker Lake serving as a focal point for outdoor recreation. Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping, located approximately 20 miles north of Hawthorne along Highway 95, offers waterfront sites with mountain views and basic vault toilets. Most camping in this region consists of primitive sites without hookups or developed facilities, making self-sufficiency essential. The town of Hawthorne provides necessary supplies, fuel, and groceries for campers preparing for stays at these undeveloped sites.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many access routes requiring high-clearance vehicles. According to one camper at Twenty Mile Beach, "Access to the site is along a slow and easy gravel road that is wide enough for two rigs to safely and comfortably pass each other." However, soft sand near the lakeshore can create challenging driving conditions, particularly for non-4WD vehicles. Weather patterns in this high desert environment include intense summer heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations. Cell service is generally available near major roads but becomes spotty in more remote camping areas.

Campers consistently mention the panoramic mountain views and lakeside settings as highlights of the region. "The views are spectacular as you are surrounded by mountains on all sides with Walker Lake in the middle of it all," notes one visitor to Twenty Mile Beach. Night skies receive particular praise for exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Visitors should be prepared for limited shade at lakeside locations and potentially intense insect activity, especially during summer evenings. Some reviewers mention significant bug presence after dark, recommending early bedtimes and minimal use of lights. The region's camping areas tend to be uncrowded, offering substantial privacy and a genuine wilderness experience within relatively easy access of Highway 95.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hawthorne, Nevada (18)

    1. Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Hawthorne, NV
    17 miles
    Website

    "This BLM site is 1 of 3 along the west side of Walker Lake. This is the northernmost BLM campground along Highway 95. Follow the signage along the highway."

    "There is no shade anywhere around, so if you're tent camping in summer be prepared to get up early. The sun and heat had us out of bed by 6am, taking down the tent."

    2. Walker Lake

    1 Review
    Hawthorne, NV
    9 miles

    "I was driving by and seen the lake the I notice people were there… rocky entrance but well worth it! Meet some nice people. Slept with windows and doors open amazing sounds from the water."

    3. Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    37 miles

    "The address on google maps however DOES NOT lead to the camping destination but we ended up running into a couple of ATV’ers that led us in the right direction."

    "Just pull onto one of the dirt roads on the left and find a spot! Any car or smaller RV could easily drive the road."

    4. Mono Lake South Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Lee Vining, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "All around Mono Lake is USFS and BLM land that is open for dispersed camping, as long as you stay above the 1941 water line (you will see signs marking this line, which is fairly close to the lake)."

    "We stayed here for a single night while on a road trip, the drive in along CA-120 was beautiful."

    5. Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site

    7 Reviews
    Lee Vining, CA
    47 miles
    Website

    "And an even better breeze at night. lots of bugs. bring bug spray. 4wd not required, but might help. High clearance will help."

    "Along a National Forest Service Road are 4-5 pullouts with great views of Mono Lake and the adjacent small crater.  You can walk up the crater or hike down to the South Tufa area.  "

    6. Mill Creek National Forest

    5 Reviews
    Mono City, CA
    44 miles

    "This is a very cool spot the entrance is just south of Lundy Lake rd. on the 395, there's also a back way in on Lundy Lake rd. just past the first building."

    "nice shaded with creek sounds no restroom"

    7. Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

    5 Reviews
    Mono City, CA
    44 miles
    Website

    "Beautiful location and well secluded. Passed/saw only about 3 others during our one day stay here. Setup camp near the end of the road. A bit windy at night."

    8. Buckeye Hot Springs

    2 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    43 miles
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    $24 / night

    "Gorgeous area and plenty of space to go around. The hot springs parking lot signs that say that there is camping at the day use area where this is marked."

    9. Bodie Roadside Camp

    1 Review
    Bridgeport, CA
    38 miles

    "We stopped here because several other locations (that we found on this app) nearby were full or closed. It was nice and we had it to ourselves until about midnight when one other car showed up."

    10. Green Lake test

    3 Reviews
    Mono City, CA
    48 miles

    "Ends at Green Lake with some phenomenal spots.

    Keep in mind, the lake is from snowmelt, so not particularly warm.

    Would get 5 stars if the bugs weren’t so bad."

    "I mean... all these little mammoth lakes are hidden gems but I loved my time hiking into green lake around thanksgiving time. A little more difficult to get to but worth it."

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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hawthorne, NV

66 Reviews of 18 Hawthorne Campgrounds



Guide to Hawthorne

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hawthorne, Nevada, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Hawthorne, Nevada

  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, at Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping, there are no permits required, but you should pack in and pack out all your supplies.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons. Many visitors have noted that the area can get busy, so planning ahead is essential.
  • Bring bug spray and be ready for wildlife; reviews from Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping highlight the presence of bugs, particularly at night.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Hawthorne

  • The Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed offers incredible mountain views and is just a short drive from natural hot springs, making it a unique spot for relaxation.
  • Campers at Mono Lake South Dispersed have praised the peaceful environment and stunning lake views, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • For those looking for a more secluded experience, Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking provides breathtaking sunset views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Dispersed campers should check out the unique features of these sites

  • At Sage Hen Dispersed, you'll find spacious areas surrounded by pine trees, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a forested setting.
  • The Mill Creek National Forest is known for its calming creek sounds, providing a serene backdrop for your camping experience.
  • If you're looking for a spot with easy access and a variety of trails, Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site offers beautiful views of Mono Lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hawthorne, NV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hawthorne, NV is Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping with a 3.8-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hawthorne, NV?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Hawthorne, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.