Camping near Orovada, Nevada sits at elevations ranging from 4,200 feet in the valley to over 7,300 feet in the surrounding mountains, creating significant temperature variations. The region serves as a junction point between the Black Rock Desert to the south and the Owyhee Desert to the north, with numerous BLM-managed dispersed camping options. Summer brings Mormon cricket activity, while winter snowfall can close higher-elevation access roads from November through May.
What to do
Rock hounding opportunities: Search for fossils and interesting rocks around McDermitt, near Mitchell's Stateline RV Park. One camper noted, "If you're into collecting rocks, fossils and exploring old mines, there's plenty of that around here."
Creek-side relaxation: Follow the 0.6-mile trail along the stream at Water Canyon Recreation Area for an easy walk. A visitor shared, "The short (.6 mile) trail/walkway by the creek was perfect to stretch our legs."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for mountain lions at Water Canyon Recreation Area, where campers have spotted them on nearby hills. As one camper warned, "A neighboring camper told us they had seen a mountain lion roaming on the hill 100 feet from their campsite."
What campers like
Easy access from highways: Orovada Dispersed provides quick options for overnight stops. One camper appreciated that it was "Easy ride out to the open space with a nice flat pull out that accommodated a Tacoma with popup bed camper and a Ford F250 pulling a 28' Airstream. No 4x4 required but still fun to use."
Running water access: Water Canyon Recreation Area offers sites along a flowing creek, providing both visual appeal and practical benefits. A camper described it as "free camping. peaceful trails. wildlife."
Off-leash dog areas: Several BLM sites allow dogs to run freely, unlike the more restricted established campgrounds. At Orovada Dispersed, one camper appreciated being able to "get away from the crowded rest area and let the dogs run off leash."
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially Water Canyon. One visitor noted, "I arrived at 10:30pm and got one of the last two spots on a weekday."
Road conditions vary dramatically: The access road to Lye Creek Campground requires careful driving. A camper explained it has "a dual track, soft center, raised crown with many embedded and loose rocks. Very narrow road with steep banks on either side."
Morning temperature drops: Higher elevations experience significantly colder mornings year-round. A camper at Lye Creek reported, "On June 23 I woke up to 41 degrees."
Seasonal considerations: Early May brings sticky cottonwood sap at Water Canyon. As one camper warned, "I second the warning about the sticky stuff in early May. It's impressively persistent on dog paws and the bottom of shoes, and stains floors and whatever we and the dogs walk on."
Tips for camping with families
Avoid prickly vegetation: Some areas have thorny plants that can be problematic for children and pets. A camper at the dispersed area near Orovada Rest Area found that "When we got out the plants had sharp little thorns so our two dogs could not walk anywhere but the dusty road."
Aspen groves for shade: New Frontier RV Park in Winnemucca offers mature trees for protection from the desert sun. A camper noted it's "an oasis in the desert" with "paved streets, nicely spaced with mature trees (something you don't often find in the desert!)."
Consider road noise: Some sites experience traffic disturbance. At Water Canyon, a camper mentioned, "The road was busy throughout the night and morning."
Insect management: Be prepared for significant moth activity at higher elevations. A Lye Creek camper warned, "Expect mosquitoes and thousands of moths that get into every nook and cranny. Don't leave anything out overnight or it will be covered in moths."
Tips from RVers
Challenging switchbacks: Choose routes carefully with larger rigs. For Lye Creek Campground, a camper warned, "I do not recommend a trailer as a few of the switchbacks are climbing, tight, steep 180s."
Designated RV parks: For full hookups, the Winnemucca RV Park provides reliable services. A visitor called it "Easily accessible from I-80 in Winnemucca" and noted they were "greeted with friendly service."
Self-contained options: Many dispersed sites lack facilities, so bring what you need. At New Frontier RV Park, campers appreciate that it's "Clean and modern with paved streets" and "only $40.00 per night."
Level spots are limited: Many dispersed areas require careful positioning. At Lye Creek, "The campsite elevation is 7300 feet" and "the site has a slope so getting level will be a challenge."
