Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Las Vegas? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Nevada camping adventure.
A large part of the Spring Mountains is remote and undeveloped. Visitors can venture out and set up camp in these remote areas with just a little planning from the guidelines below The best known areas in the Spring Mountains include Mack's Canyon, Champion Road, and Lovell Canyon but those can get crowded in warm weather. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive or hike out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot with a nice view or good shade. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. Dispersed camping is allowed outside a one-mile perimeter away from campgrounds and 100 feet from any stream or spring. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. How to Pick a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines. - Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damage or killing plants and grass. Do NOT camp within 100 feet of any water source, as plants near water are especially fragile. - Do not camp in the middle of a clearing or meadow; try to make your campsite less visible so that other visitors will see a "wild" setting - Do not try to level or dig trenches in the ground at your campsite. Pick a tent site that is already level with good drainage. Going to the Bathroom in the Woods Dispersed camping means no bathrooms and no outhouses. That means extra care has to be taken in disposing of human waste. To dispose of feces, dig a hole six (6) inches deep at least 100 feet away from any water source. When you are done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. A ziplock bag is helpful for this. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground since it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it. Treating Your Water We used to be able to take a cup and drink directly out of the sparkling creek, a rushing waterfall, or a clear, deep lake. There is NO safe water source anymore. With an increasing population and visitation to the Spring Mountains, water sources have been contaminated with invisible micro-organisms that can make people very ill and even kill them in some cases. Giardia is a common contamination that has been spread through improper toileting and wild animals to many water sources. It will cause diarrhea, cramping, and other physical problems. The only way to ensure that water from any undeveloped source is safe is to treat it. That means heating it until it comes to a rolling boil, using water purification tablets or a water purification filter. Water from faucets in developed recreation areas has been tested and treated and is safe to use without treating.
A network of backcountry roads has been developed within the park to provide access to the lakeshore and other areas of interest that are off the beaten path. Approved roads are signed with a yellow arrow. The black number in the center of the arrow designates the road number. Driving on roads or trails not marked with the yellow arrow is prohibited. With hundreds of miles of backcountry roads, conditions can change without notice. Please travel on backcountry roads with caution. Driving off roads, in washes or cross country damages the fragile desert soil and is prohibited by National Park Service regulations. Please help preserve the park by staying on approved roads, respecting the rights of other visitors and carrying out all trash and litter.
$50 / night
Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
Dispersed camping allows you to “get away from it all.” Peace, solitude and adventure are some of the advantages to choosing an undeveloped campsite. Since there are no facilities, you must bring your own water, camp at least 100 feet from all water sources and dig a hole at least six inches deep for disposal of human waste. Remember all Forest rules and regulations apply even in dispersed sites.
Jean Dry Lake provides hundreds of miles of trails to the casual and expert Off-highway vehicle enthusiast alike. At the center of the area is the area's namesake, Jean Dry Lake. Although the name implies that the lakebed is dry, it has the potential of flooding and holding water long after a rainfall. After substantial precipitation events, the lakebed can hold several inches to several feet of water. Travel on the lakebed after a precipitation events is not recommended. Outside of the dry lakebed, motorized vehicle use is limited to existing roads and trails.ADA Access: No accessibility
8 Mile Rd Dispersed camping area is located within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada. This rustic campground offers a backcountry camping experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The campground does not provide any amenities, so campers must come prepared with all necessary supplies, including water and firewood.
Reservations are not accepted at 8 Mile Rd Dispersed camping area, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It is important to note that there are no designated campsites, so visitors can choose their own spot within the designated camping area.
Guide
We stayed for one night, loads of space, fairly level as well. Just a little bit off the road and really quiet.
Traveler
I spent 3 days and nights here at Kingman Wash in August and was nude the entire time. There were several other people camping there who were nude as well, and any neighbors nearby weren't really all that near at all and they didn't seem to mind. I did some nude hiking and spent most of the time just enjoying the area. It was hot here, but it was not uncomfortable when nude. ;) I love the Lake Mead area and I love the fact that nudity seems to be fairly common and accepted on the lake and the surrounding area. The burrows were a very welcome plus that added to the enjoyment of the trip. I'll definitely be back.
Traveler
What a bummer. Govt. wash is closed permanently. It used to be a great place to spend a nude week or two since there always seemed to be a spot that was somewhat secluded from neighbors, and those who were nearby didn't mind, or were nude themselves. Nothing lasts forever I guess.
Traveler
I've spent a few all nude days here while traveling to various other locations in the area. (I'm just now getting around to publishing some reviews of those). I found that this place was ok for a few days' stay. Not too crowded and like other boondocking places in the area, my neighbors were not too close and didn't seem to mind if I was nude all the time. I was happy to see that several of them were nude the entire time as well. That fortunately seems to be quite normal for the entire Lake Mead area (which is why I spend so much time there). I'll be back soon.
Guide
A very short but kind of rough road right off of Valley of Fire Hwy less than two miles from the Parks north entrance. Free boondocking with no amenities. Follow the road and find your spot! You can see the traffic going to and from the park, but it is not a nuisance. The park is technically closed from sunset to sunrise so the only traffic is the occasional camper, arriving at the campground within the park. There are so many trails and points of interest to visit inside and outside the park. I highly recommend paying the price to drive through the park and then through the Lake Mead national recreation area into Henderson, Nevada near Las Vegas. The road along Lake Mead is as beautiful as Valley of Fire is!
Traveler
Great views for sunrise and sunset. Dispersed camping with plenty of space between sites. Rock fire rings but expect no facilities. We only stayed one night but would stay here again! Cell service was excellent.
Guide
We got in late, but had no problem finding it and setting up. We just stayed for one night, but it was great. It’s right by Sawmill Trail head if you are going there.
TravelerI often stop here when I’m near Vegas. It’s mostly quiet except for holiday weekends. Places to hike and wonderful views. No amenities, pack it in and Pack it out.
Traveler
Nice, quiet, flat areas that are perfect for big rigs. 14 day limit. Road coming in a tad bumpy but not horrible if you take your time. Beautiful view of the Lake! Will come back here for sure.
GuideAccess to lake mead, plenty of little pull offs scattered throughout a small valley to set up camp in, a vault toilet, and a herd of Burros roaming around. Incredible views of lake mead and the surrounding elevation! Road was gravel and decently accessible for my van!
Traveler
Spent one full day and night here after spending about a week in the park. Absolutely amazing spots close to town but far enough at the same time. Minimal cover from the wind is the only drawback. 3 bars 5g with ATT and booster, pulling 300mbps with redzone wireless.
GuideThis area is amazing Between the rocks, the lake, the burros, the vault toilets, and the open space it’s beautiful!!! The burros are NOT wild 😂 & they get into everything. But we loved it. It definitely is a bumpy drive and I would not recommend trying to take a large rv down the wash road. I brought my 5x8 converted cargo trailer down and would do it again, but it was rough.
RangerThis is my third night of 5. Every night has been very quiet. There are campers around but you barely hear them or see them during the day. At night you could sometimes catch a light. T-Mobile cell service for the phone calls is great for data it's. Almost done existent. I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay.
Scout
For an rv like 3 spots not even spots just turn arounds at start of shitty road other than that do not go unless you have dirt bike..etc stayed maybe 1 hr barely cooler than vegas went
Guide
Didn't have to drive as far aspin. Saw RV and others on left after signs. Few turnouts then none. Big dump trucks coming out. One flashed brights at me idk why. After seeing no more turnouts for half mile I turned around and parked a little north from others. Bit of highway noise and truck traffic on road. Maybe gravel mine. Lake definitely had water so maybe not good hence flashing brights by the truck. Saves time, but would like more quiet far the away from highway. Will explore next time
TravelerVery close to the water. Very few people. Gorgeous scenery!. The road is a little rough getting a camper down there but they do have volted toilets.
Scout
Was so nice to get out of Vegas and have trees around! We enjoyed a relatively cool day and just enjoyed the nature.
Keep in mind that as other have mentioned, many people leave trash, ride ATVs, play music, etc.
You can not have fires, only propane, fuel stoves with a shut off.
T-Mobile has no signal here.
TravelerWe loved using government wash when we came in to Vegas to visit family but starting August 1st 2024 they have permanently closed government wash.
ScoutDue to the number of homeless encampment, trash and crime, the Government Wash and 8.0 Mile Road is now closed indefinitely. Barriers are being raised. Park Rangers are clearing any remaining persons. Please do not go there with RVs or vehicles.
Hiking and biking are available but you will not be able to take a RV or vehicle in.
ScoutPerfect out of grid compert tu vegas xd
Ranger
This used to be an area where you can camp but it is closed off now. You can maybe park 3 cars and then walk to a spot to setup a tent. About 1:30 in the morning, at least 20 OHVs came by blasting Mexican music and waving Mexican flags. Just ruined the experience.
Traveler
Parking Coordinates: (36.3636285, -115.6685757)
Relatively easy dirt road. This spot was located right before the road closure. Was able to fit the truck and a ground tent with amazing views overlooking the valley below. Visited June 22nd it was 110 in the city but up here at 7700 feet it was a nice 85-90 during the day and a cool 65-70 at night. Not a lot of tree shade at this spot but if you create your own it helps during the day.
ScoutFair warning, my boyfriend and I camped on the Saturday of Father's Day weekend so this may have skewed my rating.
The campsite was amazing! Private, very big for just the two of us, and a good combination of sun and shade. The site was very easy to get to in a 4WD truck even on the narrow two way road, smaller cars may have some issues. The views were limited but beautiful! It was hot during the day and wonderfully chilly at night. Bring lots of water, sunscreen, and good food that you can eat cold or heat up on a propane stove - no fires allowed!
The bugs were BAD all day, I swore off DEET but that trip I would've bathed in it. I was very excited for a quiet get away and quiet I did not get because of a group that rode their ATV up and down Champion road incessantly. Due to this, the dust was absolutely horrible and unfortunately the birds stayed away which is my favorite part of camping :(. The campsite was LITTERED with used pieces of toilet paper, baby wipes, glass, plastic - all the trash you can think of. We spent about a hour trying to pick up as much trash as possible, please do the same. We decided to call it a night when the sun set however people were blasting music in a neighboring campsite... why do people play loud music in nature? No clue.
So to summarize, my boyfriend and I had a WONDERFUL trip however inconsiderate people really know how to test a camper's patience.
GuideGreat spots for rv Close to lake Lots of people fishing Road is graded with camping spots or drive further rough road wild spots
GuideWe went further up near intersection of 157 and 158. Lots of open spots and almost no one around. Height of your rig could limit site selection. Even with high roof Sprinter we had some issues with low branches. Lots of shade. No real views, but lots of privacy. Some trash. Not horrible, but a good reminder to pick up after yourself so we can keep these public lands open.
ScoutThere are several spots to camp. Beautiful sight.
TravelerVery windy, but large area so tons of room to spread out and camp. We drove closer to the water in our awd car
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Las Vegas, Nevada, where you can escape the city hustle and immerse yourself in nature. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Las Vegas, NV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Las Vegas, NV is Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping (Spring Mountain) with a 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Las Vegas, NV?
TheDyrt.com has all 44 dispersed camping locations near Las Vegas, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.
