Desert camping near Sloan, Nevada offers unique outdoor recreation opportunities within 30 minutes of the Las Vegas Strip. The area features dramatic elevation changes from 2,000 to 6,200 feet, creating distinct climate zones throughout the year. Temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations during winter nights, while summer days in lower elevations regularly exceed 100°F.
What to do
Explore canyon washes: Las Vegas Bay Campground provides access to nearby canyon washes. "We love camping at Las Vegas Bay campground at Lake Mead. The campground is very close to the wash that comes from Lake Las Vegas. Lots of wildlife!! Sites are small. RVs larger than 31 ft will have a hard time fitting," notes Bonnie C. from Las Vegas Bay Campground.
Enjoy high-elevation hiking: The Mormon Pass area offers cooler temperatures and different vegetation. "If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the heat and bustle of Las Vegas, this campsite Desert Pass in the Mormon Pass is the perfect getaway. Just a short drive away, you're instantly transported into cooler mountain air surrounded by beautiful pine and juniper trees," explains Ryan F. from Desert Pass Campground.
Bird watching opportunities: The Pahrump area features wetland habitats with diverse bird species. "This place is full of birds and wildlife. Love it here," reports Brittney C. from Lakeside Casino & RV Resort, noting the contrast between desert surroundings and water-based habitats.
What campers like
Escaping urban heat: Higher elevation sites provide significant temperature relief. "Love this campground to escape the Las Vegas heat in the summer. Camp is clean and has many first come first serve as well as reservation sites," shares Hannah D. about Hilltop.
Night sky viewing: The remote locations offer exceptional stargazing. "Too many starts to count, you'll be up all night," writes Bronco Billy about Desert Pass Campground, highlighting the minimal light pollution despite proximity to Las Vegas.
Diverse terrain access: Multiple camping zones provide varied landscapes. "Lots of big trees and bushes make the campground feel like an oasis. I've come out here on holiday weekends and was always able to find a site. Many of them have great views. The sites over looking the wash allow you to hear a river while you sleep!" describes Lance E. about Las Vegas Bay Campground.
What you should know
Cell reception limitations: Most glamping in Sloan, Nevada area lacks reliable connectivity. "There is NO CELLULAR SERVICE. The 'toilets' are vault toilets (fancy outhouses) that are not regularly maintained, but were also reasonably clean," warns Daniel G. about Desert Pass Campground.
Water availability concerns: Many sites require bringing your own water. "At an elevation of 6200 ft this is a great place to get away from it all. But there are some things that those coming here should know. There is NO RUNNING WATER. Be prepared to bring your own if you are staying for any length of time," advises the same reviewer.
Vehicle access restrictions: Some campsites require appropriate vehicles. "Roads will tear up a pull trailer and you can mostly get to this campsite with 2WD, but highly recommend 4WD," recommends T K. about Kyle Canyon Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Higher elevation sites can have seasonal insect issues. "We got eaten alive!! It's a beautiful area and the nights were beautiful but never again. Its definitely just for a day trip to getaway from the heat for a few hours," cautions Niki S. about Desert Pass Campground.
Temperature planning: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We stayed in late March which was a great time to stay. Low 70s during the day and maybe 59 at the coldest part of the nice," reports Trevor J. about Las Vegas Bay Campground.
Security considerations: Monitor belongings at more accessible sites. "Well the Camphost Bob is amazing. 1/2 of the campers are folks passing through and either keep to themselves or are kind. 1/4 are homeless from Vegas, that kept to themselves and then there was the one bad one that was supposedly passing through that went to jail. Just be mindful of your area and belongings," advises Imerie T. from Mahogany Grove.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs. "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. Lots to do and everything you need that is walkable," reports T K. about Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have vehicle limitations. "We love camping at Las Vegas Bay campground at Lake Mead. The campground is very close to the wash that comes from Lake Las Vegas. Lots of wildlife!! Sites are small. RVs larger than 31 ft will have a hard time fitting. This is dry camp only," cautions Bonnie C.
Hookup availability: Most sites outside RV parks lack services. "Campground has smaller sites, closer together, no water, smaller scrubby pines (limited shade), but it is still a great escape from the Las Vegas heat. Difficult to navigate larger RVs/trailers, but perfect for tents and smaller RVs/trailers," explains Colette K. about Hilltop Campground.
