Tent campsites near Hawthorne, Nevada consist mainly of primitive sites with minimal facilities. Most camping areas lie within 1-2 hours of town in arid, high desert terrain between 4,300-8,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Creek exploration: Mill Creek National Forest offers campsites adjacent to running water. One camper noted, "Cool water, a nice breeze in the evening, water sounds day and night. Quiet." The creek provides natural cooling during hot summer months.
Ghost town visits: Primitive campsites near Hawthorne serve as bases for exploring nearby ghost towns. From Upper Virginia Creek Campground, one visitor shared, "Bodie ghost town and Mono lake are great day adventures from here as well."
ATV riding: The open terrain around Hawthorne accommodates off-road vehicle enthusiasts. At Wilson Canyon, a camper reported, "Wilson Canyon is so awesome! Room for everyone, while lots of track to cover."
What campers like
Scenic vistas: Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site provides panoramic viewpoints. A camper mentioned, "We found a nice, open campsite with great views of Mono Lake and the eastern Sierras. Road got quite sandy in some sections, would recommend having a 4x4 to access some of the sites."
Privacy between sites: Many primitive camping areas offer adequate separation between campers. One visitor to Mono Basin noted, "I came here late at night and there were plenty of places to park off the side of the driveway! They were all spread out so everyone got their privacy."
Natural sounds: Campsites near water features provide ambient background noise. A Mill Creek camper stated, "Pull into a spot and relax while you listen to the creek, close to the road easy access."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Alum Creek Campground, a camper warned, "Be forewarned if you attempt to reach this area in a vehicle without high clearance or with a trailer (over maybe 12' long) you will be sorely disappointed and in need of a tow."
Ground conditions: Securing tents can be challenging in sandy areas. One camper at Mono Basin advised, "The ash/sand might be a little soft for securing tents. When there is wind, it really blows."
Campfire restrictions: Fire bans are common throughout the region. A camper at Mill Creek National Forest observed, "The only con is that there are no campfires allowed, too much deadwood and dry brush around next time bringing the propane fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety: Some campgrounds provide bear-resistant storage. At Upper Virginia Creek Campground, a visitor noted, "For a free spot, it was clean and had pit toilets, bear boxes and fire pits."
Swimming opportunities: Natural water features offer cooling recreation. A camper at Wilson Canyon mentioned, "In the summer, the swimming hole across the road is so nice!"
Bug preparation: Insect activity can be significant during warmer months. A Mono Basin camper advised, "Came up here in July. It gets warm during the day, but there is a good breeze during the day. And an even better breeze at night. lots of bugs. bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing issues: Established campgrounds may have limited room for larger vehicles. At Desert Creek Campground, one RVer complained, "The spots are cramped and ontop of each other. Most spots are right next to the rock, cobbled dirt trail."
Connectivity options: Some dispersed sites offer unexpected cell service. One camper at Mono Basin shared, "Awesome views. Quiet with only occasional road noise. Conveniences (gas, groceries, dump station, restaurant, etc.) within 10 miles. Excellent Verizon signal (for data)."
Road access considerations: Unpaved roads may deteriorate further from main routes. A Mono Basin camper observed, "The road gets a little rough and soft after the 4th site," suggesting campers should scout ahead before committing to remote sites with larger rigs.
