Reno sits at an elevation of 4,500 feet in Nevada's high desert, where daytime temperatures range from 45°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Most RV campgrounds around Reno operate year-round despite seasonal temperature swings, with many sites offering mountain views of the nearby Sierra Nevada. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing nights, while summer visitors need shade solutions during peak afternoon heat.
What to do
Visit Virginia City historical sites: Just 30 minutes from Gold Dust West RV Park, this preserved mining town offers museums and historic buildings. "From here we visited the rib cookoff in Sparks, Civil war days in Virginia City and several other areas during our stay," notes Les W.
Access hiking trails: Some campgrounds provide direct trail access for day hikes. At Gold Ranch Casino & RV Resort, "There is access to a hiking/mountain biking path," according to Lee D., who adds that weather conditions may affect trail quality.
Enjoy swimming and water activities: During warmer months, campers can use on-site pools or visit nearby water features. "The kids loved the pool," mentions Vena B. about the facilities at Grand Sierra Resort RV Park, where resort amenities are available to camping guests.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms and facilities: Many reviewers highlight the importance of well-maintained restrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were very clean," notes Jacki L. about her stay at Sparks Marina RV Park, where multiple reviewers commented on cleanliness.
Resort amenities: Casino RV parks offer unique perks not found at traditional campgrounds. "You really never need to leave," says A.T. about Grand Sierra Resort's facilities, which include "a bowling alley, swimming pool, casino, escape rooms, movie theater, arcade, fitness center, Starbucks, more than 5 restaurants."
Convenient base for exploration: Campgrounds serve as strategic bases for regional tourism. Robert V. noted that staying at Gold Dust West provided "a great jumping off point for so many things and places. 30 minute drives will get you to Virginia City, Reno, or close to Tahoe."
What you should know
Age restrictions on RVs: Some parks limit older vehicles. "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website... But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig," warns Leah T. about Sparks Marina RV Park's "10 year policy" that isn't clearly communicated upfront.
Overflow lots may have limited amenities: During busy periods, overflow parking may be the only option. Summer C. reports about Shamrock RV Park: "The overflow is just a parking lot where their warehouse is... There's no sewer hookup; you can dump at the end. You have to share the water hose with other RVs during your stay."
Road noise impacts: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. Brad H. mentions Gold Ranch Casino is "nestled against the Eastern Sierras, on the Cal/Nev. border," but another reviewer notes "you can hear the busy noise from the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Check age restrictions for amenities: Not all facilities welcome children. At Sparks Marina RV Park, Mar reported: "Kids must be 18 to enjoy the spa even if accompanied by adults, had a great club house with a pool table but kids must be 14 to play."
Consider resort-style options: Casino RV parks often include family entertainment. Vena B. noted at Grand Sierra Resort: "My kids loved the pool. The RV section when we first arrived was a large parking lot... By the time dinner time arrived, the entire lot was full of RVs and families which made the parking lot seem more welcoming."
Look for space to play: When traveling with children, sites with open areas are valuable. At Pyramid Lake Marina and RV Park, campers can choose different camping styles. "Many different spots from able to use the marina or at the boat launch still on pavement or just right down on the beach next to the water," explains Juan.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Narrow sites create challenges for larger rigs. Les W. commented about Gold Dust West: "The only reason for four stars is due to how narrow the spots are. With the slide out and stairs down we were hanging over the edge of the pull through site."
Consider sewer connection design: Some parks have unique hookup configurations. Ray & Terri F. noted at Bordertown Casino RV Resort: "The sewer connections are slightly recessed, centered in concrete bowls; it was a challenge to get a good connection with a right-angle connector."
Look for dog-friendly facilities: Many travelers need pet accommodation. Kevin K. shared about Shamrock RV Park: "Site A16 is not the best site unless you don't mind being next to the dog area," suggesting location considerations for those with or without pets.
