Pahrump's desert camping options sit at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations throughout the region. The surrounding Spring Mountains provide cooler alternatives to the valley's intense summer heat, with temperature differences of up to 20 degrees between mountain and valley campsites. Most dispersed camping areas around Pahrump permit stays up to 14 days within any 28-day period.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping, campers can access several hiking paths within the Spring Mountains. "There's hiking nearby farther in the canyon and has never been an issue finding a spot for our Sprinter here," notes one regular visitor. The canyon's 6,000-foot elevation makes it significantly cooler than Pahrump.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountain areas around Pahrump host diverse wildlife. "We have a van, it is easy to leave the main concrete road to enter the pitches, some are bumpier than others," reports a camper who stayed at Lovell Canyon. Wild horses and mule deer can be spotted in meadow areas throughout the Spring Mountains.
Casino entertainment: Many RV parks offer convenient access to gaming. "The convenience store and gas station on site are a plus as well," writes a camper about Lakeside Casino & RV Resort. "Seeing a hot air balloon pass over the campground on a sunny morning is a sight to behold."
Water recreation: Despite the desert setting, some campgrounds offer water activities. "You can get lakefront RV spots which are so cool if you have a little canoe kayak anything and just jump on the lake and enjoy your day," explains a visitor to Lakeside Casino & RV Resort, where paddle boarding and kayaking are available during non-pandemic times.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: At higher elevations, the Spring Mountains provide relief from summer heat. "Needed a place to beat the heat while passing through Vegas, was a good 20 degrees cooler," notes a camper at Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping. This temperature difference makes mountain camping viable even during summer months.
Free dispersed options: BLM land near Pahrump offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Literally free!!! Cell service, dispersed, dirt roads. Close to stores and everything in between," writes a reviewer of Wheeler Pass Road Dispersed. These areas provide budget-friendly alternatives to established RV parks.
Resort amenities: Developed campgrounds offer extensive facilities. "Wine Ridge Resort has 2 swimming pools, pickleball courts, mountain views. Free breakfast Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Winery has a restaurant," explains a camper. Monthly rates run about $519 plus electricity, which one camper reported as $78 during a very hot September.
Community activities: RV parks often schedule regular events. "This place has all the amenities one could ever need. The bath house was literally the cleanest I have ever seen," writes a visitor to Preferred RV Resort. "The pool and hot tub were fantastic and well maintained, there was plenty of activity areas (corn hole, shuffle board etc)."
What you should know
Long-term residents: Several camping areas house permanent or semi-permanent residents. "Now a lot of people are like living here full time and well good for them right? Shoot... not a bad situation," notes a Wheeler Pass Road camper. Another advises: "The long term folks are mostly concentrated below the powerline road. Transient visitors are best suited to sites higher up the road."
Summer heat considerations: Valley temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through September. "If you have 4x4 and some clearance you can offroad to some pretty interesting spots up the mountain. All in all a quiet and cool night," writes a visitor to Lovell Canyon, highlighting the value of higher elevation camping during summer.
Vehicle requirements: Some dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "Trying to take it up the dirt roads was a bit rugged so we came back down," notes a camper at Lovell Canyon who attempted to bring a travel trailer on rougher roads. Stick to main access roads with larger rigs.
RV age restrictions: Some parks have vehicle inspection policies. "I don't believe that they have an age limit on RVs, but the staff at the gate will check your rig to make sure it's not a hooptie," explains a camper at Preferred RV Resort. "They cringed a bit at our old Toyota Motorhome, but after looking at it and seeing that it had been restored completely on the inside and had no leaks, they let us stay."
Tips for camping with families
Elevation benefits: Mountain campgrounds offer relief from heat. "Being so close to Las Vegas, the campground fills up fast. This is a great escape from summer temperatures in the valley," writes a visitor to McWilliams Campground. The national forest campground sits at approximately 8,500 feet.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy animal sightings. "There is a mountain meadow not far from the campground and wild horses go there to graze, we have also seen mule deer near the meadow," notes a McWilliams camper. Wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk.
Swimming pools: During hot weather, pools become essential for families. "Full hookup, complete shade because of all the trees, a Casino in case you want to go try your luck, gas station and corner store literally on the same property. Oh did I mention a swimming pool and volleyball courts?" explains an enthusiastic camper.
Tent camping considerations: Not all parks accommodate tent campers. "This is a PSA for anyone trying to find tent reservations on their website. You won't find it despite the description saying it has them available. I called and spoke to a representative who assured me they do not offer tent sites, RV only," warns a prospective camper about Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. "We spent a month at this lovely campground. The amenities are awesome with a small lake in the middle of the park. The wifi is slow so bring a hotspot of your own for speed," advises a long-term visitor to Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Dump station access: Services for tanks vary by location. "This is a co-op park owned by Escapees and Escapees members. You must belong to Escapees RV club to use any of their services," explains a visitor to SKP Pair-a-Dice RV Park. "Full hookup sites are $30/night, boondock sites are $10/night, first night is free, and you can use the dump for free if you stay 7 nights."
Camping near services: Proximity to town offers convenience. "Gravel roads when you enter into this RV park as well as gravel spots, full hook ups, showers and bathrooms. Overall nice place for sure. They are expanding it not to mention plenty of room," writes a camper about an RV park in Pahrump. The best places to camp near Pahrump, Nevada often provide easy access to town amenities.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on specific needs. "Although the back section looks nice with the palm trees, sites are very close together. The sprinkler system will leave hard water spots all over your stuff," warns a camper about one RV park. Request specific areas when making reservations.
