Visitors to North Las Vegas, Nevada can find temperatures that reach over 100°F in summer and drop to the 30s in winter, creating distinct seasonal camping considerations. Area campgrounds span elevations from 1,220 feet at Lake Mead to over 8,000 feet in the Spring Mountains. This diversity creates multiple microclimates within an hour's drive of the city, affecting what to pack and when to visit.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Las Vegas Bay Campground connects to several trails, including one "about a mile and a half long starting behind campsite number 74," according to one camper. "The sites are on the outer rim of the campground with perfect views of the surrounding mountains."
Water activities: Callville Bay RV Park offers access to Lake Mead for boating and fishing. "We have camped here many times but particularly enjoy this marina over any others on the lake... Nice boat ramp although since the lake is lower than it used to be it can be a long walk to park your car after you put your boat in the water," notes Jeremy M.
Night sky viewing: The high elevation campgrounds provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Desert Pass Campground, one visitor noted, "Too many stars to count, you'll be up all night." The elevation and distance from city lights creates optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The high-elevation sites offer escape from valley heat. "If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the heat and bustle of Las Vegas, Desert Pass in the Mormon Pass is the perfect getaway... Just a short drive away, you're instantly transported into cooler mountain air surrounded by beautiful pine and juniper trees," explains Ryan F.
Natural surroundings: Hilltop Campground provides a forested environment unlike the desert below. "The campground has tons of trees for shade and is at altitude, so is usually 20 degrees cooler than the valley itself," notes Christina S. The contrast to typical desert camping makes it popular during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report wildlife sightings. "We love camping at Las Vegas Bay campground at Lake Mead. The campground is very close to the wash that comes from Lake Las Vegas. Lots of wildlife!! Sites are small," writes Bonnie C.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by season and location. "Fires were also forbidden when I was there because of wildfire fears," reports a Mahogany Grove visitor. Check current restrictions before arrival.
Water availability: Many sites have limited or no water. At Hilltop Campground, "There is no running water in the campground. Spigots have been capped, and where there once were showers, there are now portable toilets," explains Denny B.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies widely. Las Vegas Bay Campground has "clean restrooms with flushable toilets" according to Minda B., while other locations offer only vault toilets or portable options.
Tips for camping with families
Season selection: For desert camping with children, avoid summer heat. At Las Vegas Bay Campground, "We stayed in late March which was a great time to stay. Low 70s during the day and maybe 50 at the coldest part of the night," reports Trevor J.
Shade assessment: Check campsite descriptions for shade options. "[Hilltop Campground] has smaller sites, closer together, no water, smaller scrubby pines (limited shade), but it is still a great escape from the Las Vegas heat," notes Colette K.
Security considerations: Some campgrounds report safety issues. At Las Vegas Bay Campground, "1/2 of the campers are folks passing through and either keep to themselves or are kind. 1/4 are homeless from Vegas, that kept to themselves... Just be mindful of your area and belongings," advises Imerie T.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have tight turns. At Hilltop Campground, "Would not recommend pulling a trailer around this site, there are two extremely tight turns," warns T K. Similarly, at Las Vegas Bay Campground, "RVs larger than 31 ft will have a hard time fitting," notes one reviewer.
Hookup options: For yurt camping near North Las Vegas, Nevada, or those seeking more comfort, Sage Desert Dreams provides a geodesic dome with electric hookups. "This geodesic dome is great for the off road/off grid adventurer. We provide cooking supplies, fun games, and the most gorgeous hilltop view in the canyon," explains the property manager.
Surface conditions: Tent campers should note ground conditions. At Las Vegas Bay Campground, "Our site - and I assume most - were dirt/sand mix that made for easy tent set up. But don't count on getting your stakes into the ground. There were a lot of small rocks around the site - obviously used by many campers to 'stake out' the tent with," reports Amy G.
