Best Tent Camping near Nellis Air Force Base, NV

Public lands surrounding Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada offer several primitive tent camping options for those seeking desert solitude. Mack's Canyon Dispersed Camping provides tent-only sites in higher elevations west of Las Vegas, while Valley of Fire Dispersed camping offers walk-in tent sites with spectacular red rock formations. Desert Pass Campground, located at 6,200 feet elevation between US Routes 93 and 95, features seven designated tent campsites with basic amenities. Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Lake Mead National Recreation Area provides shoreline tent camping with water access.

Most tent campgrounds require preparation for primitive conditions. Desert Pass sites include fire rings and picnic tables but no running water or cellular service. Vault toilets are available but not regularly maintained. Rough access roads typically require high-clearance vehicles, with 4WD recommended for Mack's Canyon and Desert Pass. Valley of Fire dispersed sites feature flat spots with established fire rings but no facilities. Eight Mile Road has dumpsters at the entrance but no other services along its 2.1 miles of washboard road. Seasonal considerations include extreme summer heat at lower elevations and occasional snow at Desert Pass during winter months.

Tent campers frequently choose these areas for stargazing opportunities and temperature variations. According to reviews, Mack's Canyon provides relief from summer heat, with temperatures often 25 degrees cooler than Las Vegas. One camper noted that Desert Pass sites remain uncrowded even on weekends: "We were the only people there until late in our second day." Valley of Fire sites offer minimal privacy but exceptional sunrise views. Campers should be prepared for high winds and dust storms, particularly at Desert Pass where tent stakes must be secured firmly. Road Runner Cove in Lake Mead offers more secluded tent camping with lake access, though reaching it requires navigating difficult terrain. All sites operate under pack-in, pack-out principles with most enforcing 14-day stay limits.

Best Tent Sites Near Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada (12)

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

    12 Reviews
    Henderson, NV
    16 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."

    2. Valley of Fire Dispersed

    26 Reviews
    Overton, NV
    25 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."

    3. Desert Pass Campground

    8 Reviews
    North Las Vegas, NV
    26 miles
    Website

    "At an elevation of 6200 ft this is a great place to get away from it all. But there are some things that those coming here should know. There is NO RUNNING WATER."

    "It occasionally snows on this site and is great to get away from the heat of Vegas. There is a self pay of $5 and only a hand full of sites. "

    4. Mack's Canyon Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Mount Charleston, NV
    35 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."

    5. Vegas Glamping

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

    $99 - $299 / night

    6. Road Runner Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Willow Beach, NV
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8990

    "I just throw some blankets over it and instantly have shade. I tried to take it and fold it up and realized why the people before me abandoned it lol."

    "It’s very isolated and secluded and it surrounded by trees. If you can make it you can camp and have A whole lake to yourself. Huge fish everywhere and cliffs to jump from."

    7. Suite Spot LV

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

    $220 - $400 / night

    8. Carpenter Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Mount Charleston, NV
    37 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."

    9. Rainbow Mountain Springs

    1 Review
    Blue Diamond, NV
    29 miles
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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Nellis Air Force Base, NV

44 Photos of 12 Nellis Air Force Base Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Nellis Air Force Base, NV

639 Reviews of 12 Nellis Air Force Base Campgrounds



Guide to Nellis Air Force Base

Tent camping near Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, offers a variety of scenic locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city. With options ranging from serene lakeside spots to rugged desert landscapes, there's something for everyone.

Tips for tent camping near Nellis Air Force Base

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Desert Pass Campground offers clean vault toilets and picnic tables, making it a convenient choice for those who want basic amenities while enjoying nature.
  • At Champion Road Dispersed Campsites, you'll find shaded areas and a relatively private setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.
  • The Valley of Fire Dispersed site features stunning rock formations and ample space for tent camping, though it lacks facilities, making it ideal for those who prefer a more primitive experience.

Tent campers should check out scenic views

  • The Road Runner Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area is known for its beautiful, secluded spots surrounded by trees, perfect for fishing and enjoying the tranquility of the lake.
  • For those who enjoy stargazing, Foxtail Grp Picnic Area offers a peaceful environment with minimal light pollution, making it an excellent choice for a night under the stars.
  • Experience the unique landscape of Mack's Canyon Dispersed, where you can find hidden spots with amazing views, ideal for a quiet retreat away from the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nellis Air Force Base, NV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nellis Air Force Base, NV is Eight Mile Dispersed Camping near Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area with a 3.3-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Nellis Air Force Base, NV?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Nellis Air Force Base, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.