Camping near Overton, Nevada offers desert exploration opportunities within the Mojave ecosystem at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 6,200 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F between June and September, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for outdoor activities. The surrounding red rock formations and limestone cliffs provide distinctive landscapes for both primitive camping and luxury accommodations.
What to do
Stargazing at elevation: Desert Pass Campground sits at 6,200 feet, providing cooler temperatures and exceptional night sky viewing. "The surrounding area was beautiful and there were plenty of stars at night, although I'm pretty sure you still get some light pollution from Las Vegas," notes camper dalton S.
Wildlife viewing: Lake Mead camping areas offer opportunities to observe desert wildlife. "Quail are everywhere. Close to the water and it's peacefully quiet," reports Robin P. at Las Vegas Bay Campground.
Kayaking: The Lake Mead area provides water recreation options for glamping near Overton, Nevada. "Very nice spot to kayak," shares Overland Pioneer about Callville Bay RV Park, noting they had the area to themselves at night.
What campers like
Desert elevation changes: The mountains near Las Vegas offer temperature relief. Ryan F. explains, "Just a short drive away, you're instantly transported into cooler mountain air surrounded by beautiful pine and juniper trees. The elevation makes a huge difference in temperature—what feels awful and unbearable in the valley becomes a refreshing and comfortable summer retreat here."
Campground privacy: Many sites provide adequate spacing between campers. At Desert Pass Campground, Daniel G. notes, "There are 7 sites total. Two up one side on a small hill, two by the first vault toilet, one in the middle, and then a group site with two tent pads by the second vault toilet."
Clean facilities: Las Vegas Bay Campground maintains good sanitation standards. Trevor J. appreciates the "Flushing toilets and running water in the bathroom was nice. Beautiful sunset views, and the hills block all signs of civilization. You feel like you are in the middle of nowhere even though you are 20 minutes from Vegas."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. "We made it out with a Subaru Outback Wilderness with no issues, so as long as you have AWD or 4WD, and decent ground clearance, you shouldn't have any issues," advises dalton S. about Desert Pass Campground.
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies when glamping near Overton's more remote areas. Daniel G. warns, "There is NO RUNNING WATER. Be prepared to bring your own if you are staying for any length of time."
Insects: Be prepared for seasonal bugs. "We got eaten alive!! It's a beautiful area and the nights were beautiful but never again. It's definitely just for a day trip to getaway from the heat for a few hours," cautions Niki S. about Desert Pass Campground.
Connectivity: Cell service varies significantly. "There is NO CELLULAR SERVICE," states Daniel G. about Desert Pass, while Las Vegas Bay Campground offers better connectivity according to Lance E.: "Easy access from Las Vegas, but feels a world away."
Tips for camping with families
Lake access considerations: Not all lakeside campgrounds provide swimming access. Katelyn B. notes about Callville Bay: "It's kinda a ways away from the lake, no swimming access. Boats only. About a 10 minute drive away from swimming."
Campsite selection: Choose sites with natural shade when possible. Amy G. shares about Las Vegas Bay: "We had site 23 - very shaded and 'green' - site 24 (not ours) was very open to the desert."
Security awareness: Monitor your belongings in more populated campgrounds. Imerie T. advises, "Just be mindful of your area and belongings," noting that while most campers keep to themselves, security awareness remains important.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: For full amenities, Greg L. suggests alternative accommodations: "As an alternative to the NPS campground across the road, this mobile home park has some full hookup RV spots in the rear of the mobile home park next to the laundry/restrooms. Cost for RV as of Feb 2022 was only $29.38 for full hookups."
Site dimensions: Consider vehicle size when choosing campgrounds. Bonnie C. cautions about Las Vegas Bay Campground: "Sites are small. RVs larger than 31 ft will have a hard time fitting. This is dry camp only. No hookups or dump station. Portable water is available."
Dump station access: Kevin H. notes about Callville Bay, "Was very quiet not a whole lot of people. No hook ups water nearby but a great place to relax and explore Lake Mead. The fee is $20 per night and with the senior citizen discount only $10 per night."
