Primitive camping near Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada offers opportunities across elevation zones ranging from 1,200 to 8,000 feet. Temperature variations between desert and mountain sites can exceed 20 degrees, making season selection critical. Most dispersed sites lack cellular coverage below 3,000 feet elevation, with connectivity improving dramatically at higher elevations.
What to do
Swim at the lake: Kingman Wash provides direct lake access with relatively calm waters. "Access 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!" shares Tim R. at Kingman Wash.
Wildlife viewing: The area's wild burros are frequently spotted, especially at dawn and dusk. "We had a visit from a burrow. Water is beautiful, views are beautiful. Lots of dogs and rocks so if mobility is an issue, the terrain is a bit challenging," notes Jenni I. at Stewart's Point Dispersed Camping.
Cross-country hiking: Open terrain allows for off-trail exploration at most sites. "We had great views and good cross country hiking. No ammenities. You are boondocking here," explains Leah W. about her experience at Government Wash.
What campers like
Temperature differences: Higher elevation sites provide natural cooling during summer months. "Needed a place to beat the heat while passing through Vegas, was a good 20 degrees cooler. Pretty busy area with alot of campers who may live there," says cole P. about Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Night sky viewing: Desert locations offer minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Sunset and sunrise were spectacular!" reports Noah E. about camping at Harris Springs / Spring Mountains Dispersed.
Privacy between sites: Many areas feature natural separation between camping spots. "Several sites to camp through the valley area just off the main road. It's gets busy on the weekends but if you look enough you can still find a site in a somewhat secluded area," notes Arthur W. about Lovell Canyon.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads range from smooth to challenging. "The road is very rough but we saw cars all the way down to the lake. I would never haul a trailer in there," shares Greg L. about Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Government Wash.
Trash concerns: Proper disposal protocols are necessary at BLM dispersed camping west of Valley of Fire. "We did a sweep and picked up a lot of broken glass bottles, some aluminum cans, a bunch of bullet casings, and other trash," explains Elaine V.
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping sites near Nellis Air Force Base have minimal or no amenities. "Camping is pretty available and dispersed! There's sites you can get to with and without 4 wheel drive, so options for rv's and car camping. One vault toilet at head of camping area but not too many people camp close to it so prepare accordingly," advises Morgan D. about Stewart's Point.
Tips for camping with families
Watch for glass: Inspect sites thoroughly before setting up. "Is it a beautiful desert landscape or is it a semi-lawless post-apocalyptic landscape littered with broken glass? Both," says Dan X. about his experience at Government Wash.
Plan for exposure: Most desert sites lack natural shade. "Wear water shoes and bring protection from the weather elements. It gets hot so pack a lot of water and sunblock. Totally family-friendly, so bring rafts and fishing gear," suggests Brittney C.
Weekday visits recommended: Weekend traffic increases substantially at most locations. "This location is one of the best I have ever seen. I was able to camp with amazing views of the lake. I thought that camping during the week would be less crowded, but I was wrong," cautions Marion B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for level parking: Terrain can be uneven, especially near waterfront areas. "Rough road in but larger rigs can make it without getting stuck if carful. Only issue is with the water so low the level stuff is way back," notes Mike M. about Kingman Wash.
Arrive early for prime spots: The best locations fill quickly, especially in cooler months. "We camp with travel trailer so we stay closer to the road but it's not busy. Trying to take it up the dirt roads was a bit rugged so we came back down. Beautiful scenery. Quiet. Temps cooler than in town," shares Brandey H. about Lovell Canyon.
Water conservation: All water must be brought in for boondocking sites. "While camping at Lake Mead, you can opt to stay in there campground that has electrical hookups, but we prefer to boondock. When you are inside Lake Mead you are able to use the dump station and freshwater to fill up your tanks at Boulder Beach campground," advises Michael B.
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