Dispersed camping near Overton, Nevada extends across desert mesa and lakeside terrain at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,400 feet. The area features Muddy Mountains to the southwest and Virgin Mountains to the northeast, creating distinct microclimates within camping areas. Rock formations contain Aztec sandstone dating back 190 million years, providing a geological backdrop for campers seeking both established and primitive sites.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Valley of Fire State Park, campers can access multiple trail systems directly from Atlatl Rock Campground. "Lots of hiking opportunities. Next time we are in Nevada we will be back here!" notes Sara S., who appreciated how well-maintained trails connect to camping areas.
Bird watching: Overton Wildlife Management Area offers extensive walking paths for bird enthusiasts. "Long walk around to do Bird Watching," shares Andre S., while another visitor spotted wild turkeys: "Turkey season. Hunting for them no problem. Saw at least 150."
Rock exploration: The area's geological features create natural playgrounds for climbers and explorers. A camper at Arch Rock Campground shared: "We spent 3 nights here in our pop up camper with two little ones (4 & 2yo). This was such a fun spot for my kids to explore, not to mention the mountain goats/rams!"
Evening stargazing: The clear desert skies provide excellent night viewing conditions. As one visitor to Sand Mine Road noted: "Dark, quiet, flat and easy to get to," making it ideal for stargazing. At Stewart's Point, another camper reported: "The sunset was incredible!"
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Dispersed sites offer privacy despite popularity. At Sand Mine Road Dispersed Camping, campers find "less crowded and more spread out" areas compared to nearby options. One visitor noted: "I liked for the solitude and relaxing atmosphere. My cat Salem loved the warm dirt."
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse desert wildlife. At Stewart's Point Dispersed Camping, visitors frequently see wild burros: "Beautiful view of the lake! Lots of donkeys braying day and night," reports one camper. Bighorn sheep sightings are also noted by visitors to BLM lands west of Valley of Fire.
Clean facilities: Established campgrounds maintain quality amenities. At Atlatl Rock Campground, one visitor praised: "Best amenities specially loved hot water shower, fire ring and fire grill. Views are astonishing."
Access to water: Lake Mead proximity adds recreation options. "There is a spot you can walk down to the water and go for a nice swim with a little beach, great when you've got it to yourself," notes a Stewart's Point visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter through spring offers moderate temperatures for camping. "Best time to go is October through early May at the latest. Summers are very hot!" advises Sandy K. about Valley of Fire.
Entry and reservation systems: Many sites operate on first-come systems with varying rules. At Arch Rock Campground, one visitor found: "First come, First serve camping with pay envelopes at the entrance. I was very lucky to find a spot on a Friday morning as another party was departing. Watched dozens of vehicles drive through asking if anyone was leaving."
Road conditions: Access varies considerably between sites. At Snowbird Mesa, a camper advises: "When you pull off the road, don't be afraid of the gravel road on the left. It leads you up to the top of the mesa. The mesa is large and flat."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs between sites. One Snowbird Mesa camper reported: "Full Verizon & T-Mobile Home streaming." Conversely, at Valley of Fire State Park, a visitor noted: "My only concern was the very bad cell signal and that the wifi costs 8$ per device per day."
Tips for camping with families
Camping pad selection: Choose sites with level, debris-free areas for family tents. At Atlatl Rock Campground, visitors found: "My spot had a level gravel camping pad and a covered picnic table. Evidence of big horn sheep all through camp."
Strategic timing: Arrive early to secure family-friendly spots. "We came here in mid February and there were quite a few campers/RVers. I imagine it fills up pretty good during peak season," notes a visitor to Snowbird Mesa.
Supervision around wildlife: Monitor children closely in areas with desert wildlife. At Echo Bay Lower Campground, a visitor warned: "The local wild burros will serenade you at 3 AM," making supervision important for families with younger children.
Explore town resources: Overton provides essential services for families. One camper mentioned accessing "a gas station about 6-8 miles down the main road," while others note the town has groceries and other supplies.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RV campers should scout for stable parking areas. At Snowbird Mesa, one RVer advised: "Ground is flat and rocky, so bring a camp carpet," indicating both advantages and minor drawbacks.
Wind preparation: Secure awnings and equipment in mesa locations. "It is windy! Great location for visiting Valley of Fire and Overton is close for groceries etc," notes a Snowbird Mesa camper, highlighting both challenges and conveniences.
Water management: Plan for refilling water at established locations. "We extended our boondocking by using our tote when we went to the state park and dumped in their RV dump. They have water too," shares a Snowbird Mesa visitor.
Access road assessment: Evaluate road conditions for larger vehicles. A visitor to BLM dispersed camping west of Valley of Fire suggested: "The first one is the easiest for bigger rigs or regular cars. The other two are up steep, sandy hills that are more suitable for a Jeep or ATV."
