RV camping near Nixon, Nevada centers around Pyramid Lake, a high desert alkaline lake located on Paiute tribal land. The region has an arid climate with summer temperatures often exceeding 95°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Visitors need to purchase permits for camping directly on the shoreline, which offers a more primitive experience compared to the established RV parks in the surrounding communities of Sutcliffe, Fernley, and Reno.
What to do
Fishing at Pyramid Lake: The lake offers unique fishing opportunities, particularly for Lahontan cutthroat trout. "Words cannot explain this enchanted place. Located just outside of Reno, this is where the locals play. With the most beautiful sunny, and sunsets I've ever seen this week is the only lake in the world you can catch lahontan cutthroat trout. October 1st opening day," notes a camper from Pyramid Lake Marina and RV Park.
Beach camping: For those seeking a more rustic experience, camping directly on the shoreline is permitted with proper permits. "Beautiful $15 permit and you find your own spot. You can be as faraway or as close to other campers as you want. No hookups or services but the water is perfect for swimming, fishing or boating," shares one visitor who stayed at Pyramid Lake.
Day trips to Virginia City: The Nixon area serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby historic sites. "4 Stars for a Casino Campground you ask? The key here is location, location, location. Now of course it isn't a camping type campground, but it is a nice full hookup location that is a great jumping off point for so many things and places. 30 minute drives will get you to Virginia City, Reno, or close to Tahoe," explains a camper from Gold Dust West RV Park.
What campers like
Easy lake access: The ability to camp right on the shoreline is a major draw for many visitors. "Camping here was great. Many different spots from able to use the marina or at the boat launch still on pavement or just right down on the beach next to the water. Only biggest issue is there is no trees. So no shade. Bring your easy ups," advises a camper at Pyramid Lake Marina and RV Park.
Cultural significance: The area's Native American heritage adds depth to the camping experience. "We did however visit the lake and museum and visitor center and it was well worth it! We will definitely be back to try and camp here again. We spoke with the locals and they confirmed that once you purchase the camping permit ($15) then you just drive to the lake and find a spot - very rustic, very cool!"
Clean facilities: Visitors appreciate the well-maintained amenities at RV parks in the region. "Very clean and nice RV park. Pool, hot tub, game room and nice small shop. Sites have fake grass but it looks nice. Pads and streets are paved. Full hook ups. Picnic tables at each site," notes a reviewer from Sparks Marina RV Park.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Camping at Pyramid Lake requires a permit from the Paiute tribe. "Camp on Pryamid lake shore or full hookups @marina RV park tents trailers etc. Indian Reservation permits required. Fireworks sold & allowed designated areas. Also, fishing is great and seasonal."
Age restrictions for RVs: Some RV parks in the area have policies about the age of your rig. "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website. I specifically searched it before I made the reservation. But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig. If your rig is over 10 years old, you might not be allowed to stay," warns a visitor to Sparks Marina RV Park.
Limited shade: The high desert environment means trees and shade are scarce at many sites. "We stayed for 3 days on the beach next to the picnic leantos. We were the only ones camping on the beach. Very quiet. We have a 24' Class C motorhome. The beach was very clean and orderly. The Marina has a great store for just about anything you may need," shares a camper from Pyramid Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions for amenities: Some facilities have age limits for certain amenities. "The only negative part was my children and I could not enjoy the amenities. Kids must be 18 to enjoy the spa even if accompanied by adults, had a great club house with a pool table but kids must be 14 to play," notes a visitor to Sparks Marina RV Park.
Consider family-friendly parks: Not all RV parks welcome families with children. "A rude cranky old lady will yell at your kids for playing on the grass. They won't let you stay to long if have kids. This is NOT a family friendly rv park. It's meant for long term elderly," warns a reviewer about Bordertown Casino RV Resort.
Explore the museum: The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Museum and Visitor Center provides educational opportunities for kids. "Be sure to visit the museum and definitely stop at the INDIAN TACO spot on the way to the lake… it was delicious!" recommends a visitor who planned to camp at Pyramid Lake.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads at Fernley: For those with larger rigs, Desert Rose RV Park in Fernley offers level sites. "Gravel drives, concrete pads, close together, small grass areas. Great staff, and the Wi-Fi worked. Road noise can be loud at times," notes a reviewer from Desert Rose RV Park.
Book ahead for holiday weekends: RV parks fill quickly during peak times. "We stayed at this location during the Sparks Rib cookoff. The only reason for four stars is due to how narrow the spots are. With the slide out and stairs down we were hanging over the edge of the pull through site," shares a visitor to Gold Dust West RV Park.
Check shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies between rv parks Nixon, Nevada and surrounding areas. "The bathrooms were horrible with trash all over the floors and both showers were broken and unusable. When I left I got gas and mentioned it in the store, which is also the RV park office. They said there were also showers attached to the store and it sounded like they might have been serviced more often," advises a camper from Fallon RV Park.
