Reno sits at 4,500 feet elevation in a high desert valley at the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F during the day while dropping to 40-50°F at night, creating significant temperature swings that campers should prepare for. The Truckee River flows through the region, providing water access at several campgrounds while most surrounding terrain features pine forests and sagebrush.
What to do
Crystal hunting near Lookout Campground: The Lookout Campground area features a nearby Crystal Mine accessible by a short drive or moderate hike. "The Crystal Mine is nearby… quick drive, bit longer walk," notes one visitor, while another mentions "The trail from the campground to Crystal Peak was great. It's more like Crystal knoll. The history of Crystal Peak is amazing, and the crystals are everywhere."
Water recreation at Stampede Reservoir: Logger Campground provides direct lake access for boating, fishing, and swimming during summer months. "Right next to the water, and close to town. Cell phone reception is spotty," reports one camper. The reservoir attracts wildlife, particularly during quieter seasons: "Cold night's starting in September. I prefer fall because there are not many people and you can have the lake to yourself."
Hiking near Davis Creek: Short day hikes from camp lead up Slide Mountain with views of Washoe Valley. "This is one of my fav hiking locations in Nevada! There are different levels of hikes from easy to more difficult," explains a regular visitor. The park maintains several marked trails accessible directly from the campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites at Boca Rest: Boca Rest Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its well-designed sites. "There isn't much division or privacy between sites, but the sites are spread apart enough so that you don't feel too close to neighbors," notes one camper. Another adds: "Beautiful campsite right next to the water. Vault bathrooms were clean. Lots of RV sites and fairly busy campground."
Clean facilities at Sparks Marina: Sparks Marina RV Park maintains exceptionally clean amenities according to multiple reviews. "Very clean and nice RV park. Pool, hot tub, game room and nice small shop. Sites have fake grass but it looks nice. Pads and streets are paved," states one camper. Another notes, "We were able to do laundry. The bathrooms were very clean. The WiFi was okay."
Casino proximity for evening entertainment: Several campgrounds provide shuttle access to nearby casinos. At Bordertown Casino RV Resort, "All you need is right there. Views, food, casino, restaurant, gas store and more," according to a satisfied visitor. Another notes, "Easy stop going north - level site, free showers. Laundry was 4.00 for a load to wash/dry. Had a nice simple meal at casino."
What you should know
Access roads to wilderness campgrounds: Reaching primitive camping areas requires planning. Lookout Campground access involves challenging roads: "For this route, you will spend 8.5 miles on a dirt road. I'd estimate this road is 10% 'standard country dirt road' [and] about 75% of the road is 'unmaintained hill road'... involves going 5MPH to navigate deeper ruts or 'potholes'."
RV age restrictions at some parks: Several Reno RV parks enforce vehicle age limits that aren't always clearly communicated. One camper reported: "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website. I specifically searched it before I made the reservation. But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig."
Seasonal water levels impact recreation: Drought conditions frequently affect regional reservoirs. At Boca Reservoir, one visitor reported: "The lake was also a bust when I went - the drought is pretty intense this year so the water level was very low and the water did not look appealing."
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions for amenities: Some RV parks limit facility access based on age. At Reno KOA at Boomtown, one family noted, "Nice amenities, typical spaces, clean and the staff was friendly. Shuttle to the casino for dinner and drinks was a nice option." However, others have encountered limitations: "The place was clean and friendly. Disappointing bathrooms with only a couple toilet/shower combos."
Timing considerations for quieter experiences: Timing significantly impacts crowding levels at water-adjacent campgrounds. A Logger Campground visitor advises: "I prefer fall because there are not many people and you can have the lake to yourself. Summer I would not attempt it as it turns into an RV city."
On-site activities for children: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation options beyond hiking and swimming. At Grand Sierra Resort, a family found diverse entertainment: "The RV Office closes at 5pm and many of those who arrived after 5 were camped out in the parking lot. My kids loved the pool. They immediately checked us in, gave us resort keys that allow access to the whole of the resort property."
Tips from RVers
Late arrival procedures: Many campgrounds close offices early, requiring specific check-in procedures. One RVer at Reno KOA noted: "Reservation but no site had to have casino security help find site no host on site. No host on site bathrooms closed." At other parks, expect limited evening services: "Services stop at 5:00 pm. When you arrive after 5 and like to shower or use laundry you are out of luck."
Sewer connection challenges: At Bordertown Casino RV Resort, the connections present specific challenges: "The sewer connections are slightly recessed, centered in concrete bowls; it was a challenge to get a good connection with a right-angle connector."
Weather preparation: The high desert climate creates significant temperature variations requiring adaptability. Davis Creek campers report "Cold night's starting in September" while summer temperatures frequently reach 90°F. RVers should prepare for both heating and cooling needs, particularly during spring and fall.
