Pahrump, Nevada sits in Nye County at around 2,700 feet elevation with surrounding desert terrain reaching temperatures over 100°F in summer months. The area offers access to multiple camping options within 40-60 minutes of Death Valley National Park. Winter brings mild daytime temperatures between 50-70°F, making it popular for seasonal visitors seeking desert camping experiences.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lakeside Casino & RV Resort, visitors can enjoy a small lake stocked with fish. "Driving here you wouldn't expect to see such an amazing rv park. Lots of spots around the lake. Full hookups and many ways to get a discount for nightly rates. Has fishing, pool, disc golf, casino, and gas station," notes a camper at Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Bird watching: The wetland environment creates habitat for diverse bird species. "This place is full of birds and wildlife. Love it here," reports a visitor about the Lakeside area. A camper at Shoshone RV Park adds: "I did walk the nature trail and see the endangered pupfish in the habitat restoration area and enjoyed the winter birds (phainopepla, verdin, marsh wren, and of course ravens)."
Local cultural sites: Visit nearby attractions including the Shoshone Museum. "The Shoshone Museum is worth a visit as well," notes one visitor. Others mention "Quick drive up to death valley junction to take a tour of the spooky beautiful Amargosa Opera House."
What campers like
Desert oasis contrast: The shade and water features provide relief from typical desert conditions. "We spent a month at this lovely campground. The amenities are awesome with a small lake in the middle of the park. Our dog loved walking around the lake and spending time in the dog run," notes a visitor to Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Community activities: Many parks offer organized events for visitors. According to one camper at Wine Ridge RV Resort: "A taco truck showed up on this Tuesday, so we had an easy dinner option. The streets are paved, the sites are gravel with a concrete slab patio." The same resort features "organized community events like bingo, free waffle breakfast a few days per week."
Proximity to attractions: Location between multiple destinations allows for varied day trips. One visitor to Pahrump RV Park noted they were "located between 2 casinos (old school, friendly great food at what it was before. Steak and eggs $7.00 New York strip. Surrounded by BLM land had a great time flying the Drone)."
What you should know
Limited tent camping options: Despite listings showing tent camping, availability may be restricted. "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 visitor to Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Variable yurt camping in Pahrump: While traditional yurt options are limited, several resorts offer alternative glamping accommodations. Guests seeking yurt camping near Pahrump, Nevada often book cottage-style accommodations or cabin rentals that provide similar experiences.
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity varies significantly between properties. A visitor at Shoshone RV Park reports: "Cell reception in the park is really spotty and weak. It seemed to be better in the South end of the park." Another notes, "The wifi works, but there is no cell phone coverage here."
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Look for parks with recreational facilities for children. "Mini golf in the back, literally anything you can think of this place has it going on," writes a visitor to Nevada Treasure RV Resort. The same resort features "a tropical vibe with amazing RV spots private little shade areas trash cans everywhere, tables at each spot, full hook ups."
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy observing local animals. "The fearless ducks and geese who aren't afraid to show up around meal time in the hopes of some vittles. Though they were aggressive, they were never dangerous and have given my kids a few stories they will share for ages," mentions one family visitor.
Temperature considerations: Desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically. At Hilltop, "The campground has tons of trees for shade and is at altitude, so is usually 20 degrees cooler than the valley itself." Another camper notes: "Hilltop Campground is a great spot in the summer and fall to get out of the heat of the Las Vegas valley."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Some parks have challenging navigation. "Would not recommend pulling a trailer around this site, there are two extremely tight turns. All tent campers except for one pop up pull trailer that was about 10 feet long," cautions a visitor to Hilltop.
Site selection strategy: Request specific locations when booking. A visitor to Lakeside notes: "Some of the lake front spots are huge, you can't reserve a specific location but if you call they will usually try to accommodate a request."
Seasonal considerations for yurt camping: For those seeking temperature-controlled alternatives to traditional yurt camping in Pahrump, Nevada area campgrounds offer varying seasonal benefits. A visitor to Pahrump Station RV Park advises: "Choose this site to be close to Death Valley without having to stay in the park because of the heat, just as a stop off."
