Equestrian camping options around Reno, Nevada are extremely limited, with no dedicated horse facilities directly at local campgrounds. Several areas near Reno allow camping with horses if you bring your own containment systems. Washoe Lake State Park offers large campsites and water access where wild mustangs are occasionally visible but no horse-specific amenities exist. For riders who bring portable corrals or highlines, some campgrounds can accommodate horses though none offer permanent equestrian infrastructure.
What to do
Water recreation at Lahontan Reservoir: Located about an hour east of Reno, the reservoir offers camping with shoreline access. "Back again for the first time since the Sierra winter. Reservoir is pretty high, and not too busy this weekend with boaters," notes a camper at East Meadow Campground. Water activities include paddleboarding, kayaking and fishing.
Crystal collecting: North of Reno, serious rockhounds camp near known crystal sites. "The trail from the campground to Crystal Peak was great. It's more like Crystal knoll. The history of Crystal Peak is amazing, and the crystals are everywhere," reports a visitor at Lookout Campground. Bring collection containers and tools if permitted.
Desert exploration: The high desert landscape surrounding Reno offers unique camping experiences. At Pyramid Lake, campers can find their own spots on tribal land. "Beautiful $15 permit and you find your own spot. You can be as faraway or as close to other campers as you want," shares a visitor at Pyramid Lake Marina and RV Park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds near Reno offer opportunities to observe wild horses and other desert wildlife. A camper at Washoe Lake State Park reports, "Wild horses roaming camp, quiet & clean. 1/2 mile walk to lake," highlighting the natural setting that equestrian enthusiasts appreciate.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites at multiple campgrounds. "Each campsite (in Loop A) is large and spacious and the views are epic. It's March and we are one of maybe 5 campers," notes a visitor at Washoe Lake State Park Campground, making it potentially suitable for those considering horse camping near Reno.
Lake access: Proximity to water features prominently in positive reviews. "Sights are right on the lake and in the shade of the trees most of the day so it doesn't get too hot," mentions a camper at Logger Campground. These water-adjacent sites could provide watering access for horses at campgrounds that allow equestrian use.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. "One of the worst roads I've ever been on...go slow," warns a visitor about Lookout Campground. Another camper elaborates: "We went in one way and out the other. Our way in was from 395 at Bordertown north of Reno on Long Valley Road. Once on the dirt the first couple of miles were bad washboard."
Sand challenges: At Lahontan State Recreation Area, campers warn about difficult terrain: "Be careful!!! Almost got stuck in the sand while trying to find a spot level enough to park. Many people had dug out around their trailer to get the slides out." This creates particular challenges for vehicles hauling horse trailers.
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions affect campground accessibility. Winter camping requires planning: "Winter camping is available on Loop A with full hookups on a first come, first serve basis. Bathrooms are open all winter," notes a visitor at Washoe Lake State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated facilities: Certain campgrounds cater better to family groups. "If you have a large group (up to 50), Loon Lake Campground is a great option! The group camping is separate and private from the rest of the camp that is located right on the water," shares a visitor at Loon Lake.
Consider fishing spots: Family-friendly fishing locations provide entertainment for kids. "Right next to the water, and close to town. Cell phone reception is spotty," mentions a visitor at Logger Campground. Another camper adds, "Stayed on the 3rd of July, the bathrooms were clean, we saw a deer, boat ramp a mile away."
Check water conditions: Water levels vary seasonally. "Cold night's starting in September. I have stayed here in summer and in fall. I prefer fall because there are not many people and you can have the lake to yourself," advises a camper at Logger Campground, providing useful seasonal guidance for families planning horse camping trips near Reno.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Pay attention to door placement when selecting sites. "First time there and we reserved a spot, site 21 and the door of our camper wasn't facing our camp. I noticed a few sites like that. It's pretty tight spaces and not a lot of privacy," shares an RVer at East Meadow Campground.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer equal facilities. "Pay dump just offsite," notes a visitor at Logger Campground, while another camper appreciates the convenience elsewhere: "Dump station? - yes, Water fill? - yes, Clean site? - yes, impeccable and level."
Hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer partial services year-round. "$30 for non Nevada resident but includes full hookups except water was shut off for the season. Flat, wide spaces with mostly pull throughs, clean bathrooms and shower," reports a visitor at Washoe Lake State Park.
