Walker Lake Recreation Area offers dispersed and established camping options near Hawthorne, Nevada at elevations ranging from 4,000-5,000 feet. The climate features hot summer days reaching 95°F and cool evenings dropping to 50°F. Strong winds can affect campsites, particularly those closer to the lake shoreline.
What to do
Hiking and exploration near Mono Lake: Multiple dispersed camping areas around the lake provide access to unique geological features. "Down near the lake it was definitely windier and a bit colder than the upper sites," notes a visitor to Sportsmans Beach Walker Lake Recreation Area, which offers both upper and lower camping areas.
Fishing at Walker Lake: Bring gear for lake fishing, though success varies by season. "My kids tried fishing, even though the fishing report stated fishing was not good. I have 9 and 11 year olds... They don't like to reason when it comes to fishing, or 'wetting a line' as they say," reports a camper at Walker Lake Recreation Area.
Visit nearby ghost towns: The historic mining town of Bodie is accessible from several campgrounds. "I ended up spending an entire day at Bodie thanks to its close proximity and really enjoyed that this offered something closeby but also a bit closer to the community of Bridgeport where I could find services and supplies," notes a reviewer at Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed Camping.
Hot springs soaking: Several natural hot springs provide relaxation options. "The water in the springs we went to was actually super warm. We got there later in the evening and it was difficult to find a spot with the crowds, so try to time it right," advises a Travertine Hot Springs visitor.
What campers like
Lakeside views: Many sites offer direct views of Walker Lake and surrounding mountains. "Beautiful views. Nice spots. Quite a few camping areas. Might be a bit different on a busy summer day but in winter it was nice. Close to the hwy so very convenient. Felt very safe," shares a camper at Sportsman's Beach.
Covered picnic structures: Upper level sites at certain campgrounds include built shade structures. "Be sure to go all the way to the end to find the RV sites with covered picnic tables and fire rings. The terraced views of the lake are beautiful," recommends a visitor at Sportsman's Beach.
Affordability: Many camping options offer low-cost or free stays. "The price is right, only 3.00 for this senior pass holder. And what a view! You don't even hear the highway above. Paved spots and covered picnic tables," states a review of Sportsman's Beach.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear desert skies provide excellent night viewing. "Stargazing from the hot springs was awesome!" exclaims a visitor to Mono Lake South Dispersed, which offers primitive camping with no amenities or facilities.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds affect tent camping, particularly at lower elevations near water. "If you are camping in anything other than a tent this spot is probably fine. But if you camp with a tent this is a last resort. It's not the prettiest spot and the wind will keep you up all night," warns a visitor to Twenty Mile Beach.
Variable terrain conditions: Some roads require four-wheel drive to navigate safely. "The east entrance road to the vaulted toilet and maybe two spots is a hard packed sand & semi-gravel/rock road. The rest of the roads leading down toward Lake Walker is loose gravel and sand in which I recommend having a four wheel drive vehicle," cautions a Twenty Mile Beach reviewer.
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures can be extreme with limited natural shade. "The sun and heat had us out of bed by 6am, taking down the tent. It was very spacious and there's no need to worry about being too close to your neighbors," notes another Twenty Mile Beach camper.
Bug activity: Insects can be problematic, especially in evening hours. "The bugs didn't seem to be a problem during the day, but they get CRAZY at night!!! Big gnarly spiders infest the area and make webs on everything, including your tent," warns a Twenty Mile Beach visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose upper camping levels with children: Higher elevation sites offer more consistent conditions. "We selected a site at the top for the amazing view and nice breezes. A bit less breezy and more buggy in lower campsites closer to water," advises a visitor to Lundy Canyon Campground.
Bear precautions: Secure food in provided storage or bring containers. "Bear bins at each site. Use them. Pretty sure we heard a bear in the night messing around with the firepit grate," warns a Lundy Canyon camper about this dog friendly campground near Hawthorne.
Fishing for kids: Several lakes offer fishing opportunities appropriate for children. "This location was suggested to me by a local who told me to just skip on past June Lake campground and some of the more popular ones. Was right on the Mill creek which made for some super fun fly fishing for wild brown trout," shares another Lundy Canyon visitor.
Visit during shoulder seasons: For more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds, consider spring or fall visits. "It was Memorial Day weekend but the place was only about 20% full. Boaters and families playing at the lower level had the place almost to their selves," reports a visitor to Walker Lake Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose sites based on size and leveling requirements. "The sites are pretty level and can accommodate a larger rig," notes a reviewer at Sportsman's Beach about this dog friendly campground near Hawthorne, Nevada.
Water and waste management: Plan ahead for water needs since many sites lack hookups. "Very clean and well maintained. Concrete, level FHU pads with picnic tables. Clean showers and restrooms," reports a visitor to Whiskey Flats RV Park.
Road conditions: Watch for challenging road surfaces when towing. "The gravel road down to the site was a little bumpy. Maybe not suitable for low profile vehicles," warns a Walker Lake camper.
Nearby services: Know where to find supplies and dump stations. "Called about 2 hours out. They had room. Great level spots. Very nice landscaping. Helpful staff. Absolutely a come again place," shares a Whiskey Flats RV Park visitor noting the convenience of this location.
