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Best Tent Camping near Las Vegas, NV

686 Reviews

You might not think of Las Vegas as an outdoors town, but Nevada is more than just desert and slot machines. Las Vegas is actually the hub city for a large area of public land that many forget about.

The best camping near Las Vegas (and the most well-known) is at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Lake Mead is quite the popular spot for both RV and tent camping. If you want to day trip to Lake Mead and find free campgrounds nearby, you have BLM land in almost every direction. If you want more traditional accommodations, you have Boulder City or Henderson, NV, just nearby. On the other side of Las Vegas is the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, with more than 100 campsites available.

Map showing campgrounds near Las Vegas, NevadaExplore the Map

Best Tent Sites Near Las Vegas, Nevada (14)

    1. Mack's Canyon Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Mount Charleston, NV
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (912) 441-2518

    $50 / night

    "Most of the campsites are accessible with a 2 wheel drive vehicle you can only get so far. The views are amazing and it’s just far enough away to see the Milky Way at night."

    "As we SUV camp (and not 4x4) we didn't head a long way in, but discovered numerous locations that were easy to get to, but still secluded.

    Very few cars, and a nice getaway."

    2. Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    "Did a day trip here, looking for other areas to be able to set up my mobile office. Awesome views, and half to full cell service/wifi all the way to the water!"

    "The road is primitive and i had issues with fishtailing in the sand so take it slow. The campsite i found was simple and spacious. You could see the lake and it was gorgeous."

    3. Valley of Fire Dispersed

    26 Reviews
    Overton, NV
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 515-5000

    "Found a flat spot next to a fire ring after traveling down a bumpy road"

    "Some rough road getting in and to some of the spots, but popular area with lots of fairly flat spots and fire rings."

    4. Desert Pass Campground

    9 Reviews
    North Las Vegas, NV
    26 miles
    Website

    "If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the heat and bustle of Las Vegas, this campsite Desert Pass in the Mormon Pass is the perfect getaway. "

    "The sites were clean and decently spaced apart. In March, temps dropped to below freezing, but we were spared the bugs so at least there was that."

    5. Suite Spot LV

    1 Review
    Mount Charleston, NV
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 581-1692

    $220 - $400 / night

    6. Carpenter Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Mount Charleston, NV
    27 miles

    "Ripped one of the side steps off the truck😬 High clearance is a must. Didn’t see a single person the whole way in and the scenery is very dull until you get into the canyon."

    "12 Mile Drive in.  Moderatley difficult trail without 4WD.  Small spring/pond nearby."

    7. Mack's Canyon Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Mount Charleston, NV
    26 miles

    "Mack’s Canyon Campground is a convenient and easily accessible spot just outside of Las Vegas, making it a popular choice for campers looking for a quick escape from the city. "

    8. Rainbow Mountain Springs

    1 Review
    Blue Diamond, NV
    22 miles

    9. Sandy Valley Road

    2 Reviews
    Blue Diamond, NV
    27 miles

    "34 foot rv no problem getting here and turning around."

    10. Vegas Glamping

    Be the first to review!
    Henderson, NV
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 521-6642

    $99 - $299 / night

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Las Vegas, NV

46 Photos of 14 Las Vegas Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Las Vegas, NV

686 Reviews of 14 Las Vegas Campgrounds

  • Ryan F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Desert Pass Campground

    25 Miles away...But a world of difference

    If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the heat and bustle of Las Vegas, this campsite Desert Pass in the Mormon Pass is the perfect getaway. 

    Just a short drive away, you’re instantly transported into cooler mountain air surrounded by beautiful pine and juniper trees. The elevation makes a huge difference in temperature—what feels awful and unbearable in the valley becomes a refreshing and comfortable summer retreat here. 

    The site itself is well-maintained, with clean and convenient pit toilets that make camping much more pleasant for families. The grounds are spacious, with plenty of room to spread out and set up camp comfortably. The trees not only provide shade but also add to the serene, scenic setting. Be smart, bring water, there is NO water available at this location. During the summer months also be cautious of the bees. We had a MASSIVE presence of bees once we brought the water and cups out, they are just as thirsty as you are up there! 

    Whether you’re relaxing at camp, exploring the trails, or just enjoying the cooler mountain air, this spot offers the kind of quiet and beauty that feels like it’s worlds away, even though it’s only about 25 miles from Las Vegas. 

    A great location for families, adventurers, or anyone wanting a quick but refreshing reset in nature!

  • Angel T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 7, 2023

    Atlatl Rock Campground — Valley of Fire State Park

    Truly a experience!!

    If you like camping this is a must go to spot. Landscape is unlike any other, millions of years of erosion to create a breathtaking environment. They have both tent sites and RV sites. It does cost but there’s a self kiosk you can pay at. You can’t go wrong with any spot to camp at but the one’s towards the back were better in my opinion. They do have three spots in the back that are tents only that are pretty sweet spots. But overall it was a experience I will never forget and I will definitely be returning multiple times, especially since it’s only an hour away from Las Vegas. 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • R
    Nov. 15, 2022

    Kyle Canyon Campground

    Nice location, Great sites and facilities

    Roomy site for my SUV with a rooftop tent. Great views of the nearby mountains. Clean and easy to get to. Great quick getaway from Las Vegas.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2018

    McWilliams Campground

    Summer Is So Much Better In The Mountains

    You can take that heat from Vegas and completely forget you are in Nevada when you travel just outside the city and to McWilliams Campground and Mount Charleston area. But because of this break in the heat all summer you have to make reservations, even though they say there are walk up sites I wouldn't suggest banking on them to be there.

    This campground is dry camping but with the setting of the mountains it hardly seems like any kind of inconvenience. There is a nice bathroom facility here without showers but plenty good for enjoying this place it is heated which makes for a lot better user experience especially I assume during winter months.

    When I was there I saw a lot of RVs and Tents alike all pulled into spots and comfortable. While I didn't seem boxed in and overcrowded I did speak to someone who said when it is filled with more RVs it tends to get a little claustrophobic feeling.

    Sleeping in a tent here I noticed that I could hear my neighbors pretty easily until around 11 p.m. after that it got pretty quiet and short of a few animal noises here and there it was silent. Temperatures dipped considerably at night so even though it was summer, in a tent I was finding I needed a little more cover than expected and pulled out the sleeping bag for some warmth.

    Something I loved about this site was the set up for campers with the fire ring and table. The slab around the ring gives you a flat surface if you have camp chairs and also allows you do better manage your space and keep debris out of your fire.

    TIPS:

    • Bring a light or headlamp. Not sure if it really doesn't have light or if it was just burned out, I didn't check again, but the bathroom was dark at night so you want to have a way to see.
    • Bring Cash or Check they didn't accept cards for the $25 nightly fee.
  • T
    Dec. 10, 2021

    Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - Red Rock Campground

    Low Cost Nice Campground close to Las Vegas

    If you get a chance take the scenic drive. The campground is just fine with vault toilets, and water but no showers, sewer dump, electric or other hookups. The location is very scenic. The facilities are well kept and the hosts on site are very nice. Many sites include a hard canopy over a paved patio, with picnic table and fire ring nearby. Each also had a large, level sand pad for pitching a tent.

  • Lance E.
    Oct. 8, 2019

    Las Vegas Bay Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Great campground close to LV

    Love this campground. Easy access from Las Vegas, but feels a world away. Lots of big trees and bushes make the campground feel like an oasis. I’ve come out here on holiday weekends and was always able to find a site. Many of them have great views. The sites over looking the wash allow you to hear a river while you sleep! At night I’ve always heard coyotes and owls. Access to Lake Mead is a 15 minute drive away. Restrooms are flush facilities and clean.

  • Daphne W.
    Nov. 21, 2021

    Las Vegas Bay Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Great Place to Camp!

    Great experience. I arrived late at night and was still able to check in with a pay stub. Even though it’s mid/late November the weather was great! Just take a cool weather sleeping bag and you’ll be good.

    This campground is reservable 15 days in advance, but if you missed that deadline, there is first come-first serve camping as well. There were many spots open when I came. When you get here, scout for a spot, remember your site number and license plate info, and then go back to pay at the pay stub center (at the entrance of the campground).

    Its $20 a night to camp here. BRING CASH! :)

    No showers, just bathrooms.

  • D
    Aug. 15, 2022

    McWilliams Campground

    Quiet, peaceful, clean

    So nice to escape the heat in Las Vegas. Campground was well thought out and maintained. No showers, no hookups.

  • Brian B.
    Mar. 18, 2021

    McWilliams Campground

    Escape the heat

    Being so close to Las Vegas, the campground fills up fast. This is a great escape from summer temperatures in the valley. There is a mountain meadow not far from the campground and wild horses go there to graze, we have also seen mule deer near the meadow. Paved parking sites with tent pads, fire rings and picnic tables. There are always fire restrictions but you can have fires in the fire ring. Restrooms are cleaned every morning.

Guide to Las Vegas

Las Vegas offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal base for tent camping adventures in the surrounding areas. Whether you're looking for serene landscapes or thrilling outdoor activities, there are plenty of options to explore.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails at Carpenter Canyon, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
  • The Valley of Fire Dispersed area is perfect for photography enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of vibrant rock formations and unique landscapes.
  • For those seeking a bit of adventure, Road Runner Cove provides opportunities for fishing and swimming in the serene waters of Lake Mead.

Tent campers enjoy these natural features

  • The Suite Spot LV features electric hookups and showers, making it a comfortable option for those who want a blend of nature and convenience.
  • At Desert Pass Campground, you can experience the tranquility of the high desert, complete with starry nights and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • The Foxtail Group Picnic Area offers a great spot for gatherings, with picnic tables and fire pits surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best tent camping sites near Las Vegas?

For a peaceful escape from Las Vegas, Desert Pass Campground offers a mountain retreat with cooler temperatures and beautiful pine and juniper trees. At 6,200 ft elevation, it provides a complete contrast to the city experience. Another excellent option is Valley of Fire Dispersed, which features spectacular red rock landscapes with numerous flat camping spots and established fire rings. The road in can be rough, so vehicles with decent clearance are recommended. Both locations offer spacious sites ideal for tent camping and provide a true desert wilderness experience within driving distance of Las Vegas.

What amenities are available at Las Vegas campgrounds?

Amenities at Las Vegas area campgrounds vary widely from primitive to more developed sites. Mack's Canyon Dispersed Camping offers spacious sites but provides no services, making it suitable for self-sufficient campers. Suite Spot LV offers more conveniences including reservable sites and toilets for those wanting basic amenities. Most dispersed camping areas near Las Vegas have no running water, no cellular service, and minimal facilities (often just fire rings), so campers should plan to pack in all necessities and pack out all trash. For those seeking more comforts, Vegas Glamping near Henderson provides reservable sites with water and toilet facilities.

Is free camping available near Las Vegas?

Yes, several free camping options exist near Las Vegas. Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Government Wash offers free boondocking with a 7-day stay limit and includes a dumpster at the entrance, though the 2.1-mile access road can be rough with washboard conditions. Mack's Canyon Dispersed is another free option close enough to Las Vegas for quick getaways while still offering dark skies for stargazing. Both locations accommodate tent camping and various sizes of RVs, provided you can find a level spot. Remember that free sites typically have no services, so come prepared with all necessities and follow Leave No Trace principles.

What is the best time of year for tent camping in Las Vegas?

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are ideal for tent camping near Las Vegas, offering moderate temperatures that avoid summer's extreme heat and winter's cold nights. At Desert Pass Campground, March temperatures can drop significantly at night due to its 6,200 ft elevation, so pack accordingly with warm sleeping gear. Summer camping is possible at higher elevations like Carpenter Canyon, where temperatures remain more moderate than in the Las Vegas valley. Winter camping requires thorough preparation for potentially freezing overnight temperatures, though daytime conditions can be pleasant. Always check weather forecasts before your trip, as desert conditions can change rapidly regardless of season.

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