Best Dispersed Camping near Reno, NV
Want to go dispersed camping near Reno? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Nevada camping adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Reno, NV (21)
1. Big Dog Valley
Verdi, Nevada4 Reviews•16 Photos•95 SavesThere is no "campground here" Please be aware most of the Dog / Sardine Valley is private property and a working ranch. The places near the valley floor with picnic tables - those are sheep camps. The places with firepits, also sheep camps. Please respect private property and make sure you are camping in the BLM / USDA lands that rim the valley. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Dog Valley provides excellent viewing of both wildflowers and flowering shrubs. Forest, meadows, and streams make up Dog Valley’s landscape, creating a cool and refreshing retreat for this popular recreation area. Dog Valley is also home to two rare plant species, Dog Valley ivesia and Webber’s ivesia. Dog Valley ivesia can only be found in Dog Valley. Other attractions include wildlife viewing and the Crystal Peak Mine, a popular spot for crystal-hounds. Dog Valley offers a variety of opportunities to view wildflowers in the Jeffery pine forests and meadows. As you enter Dog Valley from Verdi, you will see the recovery from the 1994 Crystal Fire with displays of mahala mat, silvery lupine, and chokecherry. Explore the openings in the forest with extensive displays of mule’s ear, balsamroot, buckwheats, paintbrushes, yampah, bitterbrush, bare-stem desert parsley, and manzanita. Walking around, it is easy to enjoy the smaller, less visible flowers, including collomia, prairie star flower, and blue-eyed Mary. Wetter areas have displays of shooting stars, delphinium, and Rydberg’s penstemon. Best Viewing Times: The best time to visit is June and July. Safety First: Creeks and streams can cross the road. Be careful when crossing water and watch for washed-out portions of the road. The road can be very muddy. California OHV registration is required for all vehicles. Campfire permits are also required in California and can be obtained from the Carson District Office or the campground host.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
Sparks, Nevada5 Reviews•7 Photos•39 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
3. Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
Reno, Nevada4 Reviews•3 Photos•16 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
4. Moon Rocks Camp
Sun Valley, Nevada2 Reviews•10 Photos•39 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
6. BLM next to Truckee River, in Mustang
Sparks, Nevada1 Review•8 Photos- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. Reno View Dispersed
Virginia City, Nevada1 Review•1 PhotoPlease do not try this if you are not in an all wheel drive high clearance vehicle. Not at all recommended for RVs.
- Pets
- Tents
- Dispersed
8. Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
Doyle, California6 Reviews•29 Photos•107 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
10. East of Pyramid Lake
Nixon, Nevada3 Reviews•10 Photos•47 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Reno
43 Reviews of 21 Reno Campgrounds
- J
Joe K.
Guide
BLM next to Truckee River, in Mustang
Good in a pinch.
Just off of 80 @ the Mustang exit, east bound side. Industrial area, so trucks going by, mostly during the day, but occasionally throughout the night. Good, clean spot to rest for a night. Adjacent to the river
- JJoe K.Guide
East of Pyramid Lake
BLM land east of Pyramid Lake
So quiet and peaceful. Nobody else was here but me. Barely hear minimal traffic from the road. Sadly an overcast while I stayed one night, but I got to see the last full moon, winter moon, of the year rise from behind the mountain ridge in the north. Looked like the sun rising. I will be returning to star gaze on clear skies. Oh yeah, definitely weird rock formations to check out.
Tyler C.Guide
Reno View Dispersed
amazing view
okay. let’s be real. the road is a beast. I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck. DO NOT bring up an RV/Trailer. you’ll regret it. we stayed and car camped. an awesome view of the lights of Reno. can be very windy but if you get between some of the trees it’s not to bad.
ron R.
Ranger
BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
Not easily accessible
The two closest roads coming in from the West are blocked off and labeled no unauthorized vehicles. This is due to the construction of the new neighborhoods and they probably annexed the area. You could probably access it from the East but I have no idea how many miles it would be in from where you would come in.
- ron R.Ranger
Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
Complete trash dump
It's sad where we have this public land to camp on and people just dump tons and tons of trash and abandoned cars and demolished cars on the property would not recommend going. There's some more BLM land about 15 to 20 minutes north on Red Rock road.
Paxton B.
ScoutMerrill Valley Dispersed Camp
The road is terrible
Not really sure if we camped in the right spot. It isn’t great, but it got the job done to just crash for a night. Felt like we were in a construction zone
Anna B.Guide
Moon Rocks Camp
Camping on Mars
(September 28th, 2023) Got here after dark and found an empty clearing to park in for the night. The moon and the stars were so bright, it felt like we were on another planet. Got to explore the area in the morning, such a cool spot! Very quiet when we were there.
- SShawn M.
Traveler
Bowman Lake Dispersed
Lake side Campsites
If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.
- SShawn B.Scout
East of Pyramid Lake
Middle of nowhere
Tried to go to the school bus thing but road got too technical so camped out near a mine, epic!
Chris N.GuideBowman Lake Dispersed
Great Late Spring Escape
This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance. The trail will take you off road for quite some time , but it's well with the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them. No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use. Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent. The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had.
- AAlden B.Scout
BLM FLATTOP
Access Sucks
The road kinda sucks but VC is a good time. It was nice other than the road. Please remember to pack everything out, there was a lot of trash I had to pick up that was left behind by others.
- LLinda L.Guide
Grouse Ridge Campground
Amazing spot for a campground.
The last five miles to get to this campground was narrow and rocky. Once we got to the campground, I realized narrow and rocky are okay. We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground. Woot! It was awesome. Quite a few sites there with fire rings, beat up, bear boxes that didn't open and picnic benches that were in bad shape. They had two pot toilets. This was a very busy campground. Lots of traffic on and out, I'm sure to beat the heat. It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground. I can't wait to go back.
- EEli F.Scout
Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed
Hard to get to
Site looks beautiful but road turns from pavement to 4x4. Pulled over right after the pavement ended. Lots of mosquitos
- EEmily R.Traveler
Dog Valley
Our favorite !
Dog Valley is a special place where we come to boondock. It’s quite and has a great creek. People come out here to camp, ride atvs, side by sides, dirt bikes, or off road. People target practice a lot and the ranger is very nice.
- JJulianne N.Guide
Scout Camp at Fort Churchill
Site on the Pony Express
Site had a pre-made fire pit. There’s a few spots here to choose from, although if you’re looking for privacy they are somewhat close together. There were 3 others here when we came. Lots of ATVs here. Overall pretty good for a nights stay, especially if you’re in to history!
- CCasandra E.Scout
Grouse Ridge Campground
Several camping spots. Numerous lakes to hike and a lookout tower with great views .
Great camping spot and quiet.
- AAngie l A.Scout
Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
Don’t recommend
Trash everywhere, homeless camps, didn’t feel safe but I only drove a half mile in and turned around.
- MMelissa B.Scout
BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
One of my favorite spots
I love the quietness of this spot and the view is wonderful! The only thing I don’t like is that they took the port-a-potty out, quite possibly for the cold season.
Genevieve R.GuideMoon Rocks Camp
Beautiful! Easy access.
I live nearby, so my family and I went for the day. We left just before sunset. It's gorgeous here. The dirt road is pretty good and not difficult for my Jeep Trailhawk 4x4. There were about 3 other groups. We were there on a Thursday. We walked around the whole area where the rocks were. The campsite overlooks a valley where there is an airport. We saw a couple of paragliders. On the way in from Reno, it's very easy to find. I would love to stay here in my travel trailer. There were some huge rigs out there. All of those people had dune buggies, but nobody was driving around on the rocks when we were there. There are no amenities at all. There is just a big clearing for campers. We took our dog. She had fun.
- Genevieve R.Guide
Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
Lots of trash and shells
I live 10 minutes away, so I checked it out. It's sketchy driving in with a lot of trailers and cars along the road closer to the main road. There may or may nor have been people in them. We didn't see people walking around except one guy who was walking his dog on the dirt road and another guy nearby with a table next to his car. Maybe he was flying a drone. The dirt road was very rutted in a few areas. No big deal, but I was in my Jeep Trailhawk 4x4. I didn't have my trailer with me. The view of the city is great, but that's it. The area to pull off is not that big, so I think it would be crowded with more than 2 other trailers. It wasn't windy at all when we were there, but I'm sure it could be because it can be very windy in this area. I wouldn't stay here unless I absolutely had to for the night. I did hear gunshots in the distance. We only stayed a few minutes to take a few pictures. No amenities like fire rings or tables.
- KKevinTraveler
BLM FLATTOP
Bad road
I tried driving up the other day, but couldn’t make it due to rocks. The road starts out as a nice, easy fire road, gets a little rocky, and then by mile 6 or 7 it goes full blown rock garden. SxS’s were going through it slowly, if that helps.
Virginia City seems like a fun little town, though. And the area itself is pretty cool, just couldn’t make it all the way.
Jakey and Alex L.Guide
Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed
Beautiful, but a hard drive in
The road in is paved until you reach the real spot where you can actually set up camp. It is VERY rocky and looks like it’s pretty beaten up by Off Road Vehicles.
If you have a Trailer or RV this is NOT the place to go. There is another spot down the road that is better.
Forecast said no rain… it rained. Woke up this morning to 4inches of snow! It was majestic.
- Jakey and Alex L.Guide
Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed
Easy drive in, absolutely beautiful!
It rained when we got here… which over night at some point turned into the first snow!!!
How insanely beautiful!
Highly recommend this spot
- VVirginia D.Traveler
Scout Camp at Fort Churchill
Gorgeous Riparian Forest
Scout camp is on the Carson river and within the tall cottonwoods. Camp in the shade or out in the open if it’s very windy as the trees can shed branches. Garbage collection and pit toilets. Nice trail along the River.
As of October 2023 the access road to scout camp was washed out. But there is dispersed camping on the terrace to the south.
Ray R.ScoutBLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
right off housing development that's expanding fast
Not such a good place. Housing construction getting very close. Lots of local foot traffic. Didn't feel comfortable here, almost felt as I was intruding. It does beat driving around aimlessly searching for a spit, plus its rather close to freeway. You have to leave somewhat early. Lots of joggers and mountain bikers. It has been trashed in the past so left lots of bad tastes in folks.
Sage P.TravelerBLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
Bad vibes, good views
Did the trick for a night. There was one man with two rv’s there during our visit that gave us pretty bad vibes. Couldn’t go much further up the hill in our 2-wheel drive vehicle. All in all, it’s a gravel lot and road, good views, cool spot.
- Erick W.Scout
BLM FLATTOP
New to site
Haven't camped yet. Looking forward to camping in the fall. M,
Guide to Reno
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Reno, Nevada, where you can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Dispersed campers should check out BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
- This area is known for its quiet surroundings and stunning views, making it a favorite among those seeking solitude.
- While there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, the freedom to camp in a natural setting is a major draw for many.
- Access is primarily via a drive-in route, so be prepared for a bit of a rough road to reach this hidden gem.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Reno, Nevada
- Always pack out what you pack in, especially at places like BLM FLATTOP, where visitors have noted the importance of keeping the area clean.
- Be cautious of the road conditions; for instance, the access road to Reno View Dispersed can be challenging, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife and other campers, especially at spots like Moon Rocks Camp, where the natural beauty attracts both nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top activities while free camping near Reno
- Hiking and exploring are popular activities, particularly around East of Pyramid Lake, where the unique rock formations provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.
- Photography enthusiasts will love capturing the breathtaking views at Big Dog Valley, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape transforms.
- For those interested in off-roading, the trails near Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area offer thrilling experiences for ATV and SXS riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Reno, NV?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Reno, NV is Big Dog Valley with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Reno, NV?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 dispersed camping locations near Reno, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.