Dispersed camping near Nixon, Nevada offers high desert camping in an elevation range of 3,900-4,500 feet. The region experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer days reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Much of the accessible camping sits on sagebrush plains with minimal shade, requiring campers to bring portable shelter from the elements.
What to do
Wildlife observation: East of Pyramid Lake provides excellent coyote spotting opportunities. "About a half dozen spots to camp depending on how close together you want to be. Tonight only one other camper far apart. 4000' altitude, 1-2 bars on Verizon," notes Richard D.
Stargazing sessions: The dark skies in this region make for exceptional night viewing. At Moon Rocks Camp, one camper reported, "The moon and the stars were so bright, it felt like we were on another planet. Got to explore the area in the morning, such a cool spot!"
Off-roading trails: Numerous dirt roads and trails accommodate various vehicle types. A visitor to East of Pyramid Lake mentioned, "Tried to go to the school bus thing but road got too technical so camped out near a mine, epic!"
Hiking and exploring: The geological formations throughout the area provide natural exploration opportunities. Near Pyramid Lake, visitors can climb tufa formations and explore unique desert landscapes within walking distance of camp.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Most dispersed sites around Nixon offer significant privacy. At BLM Land near Pyramid Lake, campers appreciate "Open and quiet" conditions with "Lots of off shoots for spreading out and flat sand/gravel for pulling off."
Celestial events: The dark skies make this area popular for meteor shower viewing. One visitor specifically noted staying at East of Pyramid Lake "for the meteor showers that as it turns out may be obstructed by a full moon."
Rock formations: The tufa and rock formations create distinctive landscapes for exploration and photography. A Moon Rocks Camp visitor described the experience as "Camping on Mars" and noted the otherworldly terrain.
Cell service availability: Despite the remote location, several sites offer workable connectivity. At East of Pyramid Lake, a camper reported, "4000' altitude, 1-2 bars on Verizon," while another mentioned the area has "cell service, and places to hike/walk around."
What you should know
Weather extremes: High desert conditions mean significant temperature swings between day and night. Wind can also be problematic for camping setups. Campers should prepare for these conditions, as one visitor noted about camping near Nixon: "There's absolutely no shade so the sun makes it feel hotter than it is. And the wind comes through somewhat unpredictably so we couldn't keep our awning out."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. The BLM next to Truckee River in Mustang is one of the more accessible options, with a camper noting it's "Great for an overnight camp spot when driving on I-80. Easy to get to, quiet enough."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping near Nixon lacks facilities. Bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and waste disposal options. No potable water sources exist at most sites.
Land boundaries: Some areas have unclear boundaries between public and private land. At BLM Land near Pyramid Lake, a camper advised, "The pin is the starting point of blm land in that area. There is at least one drivable pathway deeper into blm land. I used a public lands app to verify it is blm."
Tips for camping with families
Safer locations: For family camping, choose sites with easier access and more amenities. The Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area provides more facilities than most dispersed sites near Nixon. A visitor described it as having "Cleanest pit toilets ever and they are lit up (great for late arrival). Quiet and smells like juniper and sage."
Entertainment options: The lack of amenities means bringing your own entertainment. Several locations near rock formations provide natural climbing and exploration opportunities for children. The Moon Rocks area offers distinctive formations that families find engaging.
Weather preparation: Bring adequate shade structures and sun protection, especially during summer months. Without natural shade, the desert sun can be intense for children.
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities to teach children about desert ecosystems. Coyotes are frequently heard at night, and various bird species inhabit the region. A Fort Sage visitor mentioned, "You can even hear the coyotes calling to one another at night."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Many dispersed sites have limited turning radius for large rigs. Check reviews for specific access information before committing to a location with a large vehicle. At Scout Camp at Fort Churchill, visitors note the area is "Small but nice" but caution that as of recent visits "the access road to scout camp was washed out."
Leveling challenges: The terrain in many areas is uneven. Bring adequate leveling equipment, especially for larger rigs. Many sites require creative positioning to achieve a level setup.
Temperature management: The lack of hookups means relying on generators or solar for climate control. During summer, temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, making air conditioning necessary for comfortable RV camping. Plan power usage accordingly.
Water conservation: With no water sources available, RVers must bring all water needed. Calculate daily usage requirements carefully, accounting for drinking, cooking, and minimal washing needs.
