Dispersed camping near Lund, Nevada provides access to high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 6,500 feet. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 40°F. Most sites sit on dusty, hard-packed soil with minimal natural shade, making summer camping challenging without proper sun protection.
What to do
Fishing at multiple reservoirs: Wayne E Kirch Wildlife Management Area offers several fishing spots near Dave Deacon Campground. One camper noted, "Fishing is hard to do without a boat. Dacey Reservoir has large rocks damming one side that make an okay spot to cast from."
Stargazing in remote darkness: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor at Garnet Hill Camp shared, "Beautiful high desert scenery. Lots of available dispersed spots for big groups/lots of people. Heard coyotes at night which was cool."
Hot springs exploration: Natural hot springs are accessible from Dave Deacon Campground. According to a review, "Hot springs about a mile down the road that you can either walk to or drive to."
What campers like
Seasonal temperature variations: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping weather. One camper at Sacramento Pass BLM Campground mentioned, "We were there in late April and the weather was great."
Cell service reliability: Despite remote locations, connectivity is surprisingly good. A visitor reported, "Great cell phone reception but this is definitely pack it in and pack it out." Another noted, "AT&T coverage was poor, with 0 to 1 bar of 5GE and speeds of only 0.3 MB/s. We had access all 3 western DISH satellites."
Wide-open camping spaces: The expansive terrain allows for spread-out camping. At Illipah Reservoir Recreational Area, a camper appreciated, "On the reservoir with beautiful mountain views. 3 bars AT&T 5G."
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito issues: Insects can be problematic in warmer months. A camper at Dave Deacon Campground warned, "Mosquitoes are insane. Even when you bathe in bug spray, won't do anything."
Water management challenges: Most dispersed sites lack water sources. Bring all needed water or locate sites with amenities like Dave Deacon where, "There is fresh water, a dump site and pit toilets which are clean."
Dust conditions: The dry desert environment creates significant dust issues. One RVer explained, "The only downfall for me was the dust. Because it's summer, and so very dry, our motor home sucked up a lot of dust as we drove in on the gravel roads."
Access road conditions: Many sites require navigating unpaved roads of varying quality. A visitor to Old 93 BLM noted, "The road is not difficult at all. Small fee to camp but comes with a well maintained spot, fire pit, and grate for cooking."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Seek campgrounds with established facilities. Sacramento Pass BLM Campground has "Each site has tent pad, picnic table, and sun shade. Mostly level for van camper. Vault toilets ok, not pristine."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers educational wildlife encounters. "There was a nice creek behind us and lots of cows roaming," reported a family at Old 93 BLM.
Camping timing strategy: For family comfort, avoid peak summer heat. A camper shared, "This is an interesting, remote desert campground at 5500 ft. elevation. There are pit toilets which are maintained, plus there is potable water."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Consider your rig size when selecting sites. A Dave Deacon Campground visitor advised, "Campground was very easy to find and easy to get to in our big rig. We have a 39' Class C."
Turnaround challenges: Some sites have limited maneuvering space. At Gravel Pit BLM, a camper warned, "There is no shoulder on the highway, so you can't really pull over to check road or flood conditions before pulling into the pit."
Leveling requirements: Preparation for uneven terrain is essential. A Garnet Hill visitor mentioned, "Many places to camp with minimal leveling."
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully. One RVer noted, "It has potable water and RV Dump. There is about 20 site for any size rigs plus tent sites also. Easy to get to and open all year round."
