Camping sites near Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada offer diverse options across desert terrain where summer temperatures frequently reach 110°F between June and August. Winter camping brings more moderate daytime temperatures between 60-70°F with nighttime lows sometimes dropping below 40°F. The surrounding landscape features rocky desert terrain with minimal natural shade at most camping areas.
What to do
Explore Red Rock Canyon: Just 40 minutes west of Nellis AFB, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area provides outdoor recreation opportunities with hiking trails and rock formations. "You'd think that being nestled in the Red Rock canyon area the views from here would be amazing. Maybe they are in one or two spots, but nothing of the sort in the RV area," notes one camper, highlighting that while the canyon itself offers scenic views, the campground itself has limited vistas.
Visit Lake Mead Recreation Area: Located about 30 minutes east of Nellis AFB, Las Vegas Bay Campground offers access to 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," reports one camper. The area provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and water activities.
Experience Flight Demonstrations: When staying near the base, military aircraft activity becomes part of the camping experience. "Nellis has a great location. I mean if the daily, all day fly overs are not amazing enough, the beautiful views of the Vegas skyline nearby is also wonderful," writes a visitor at Desert Eagle RV Park, noting how the regular aircraft operations become an attraction themselves.
What campers like
Clean, Secure Facilities: Las Vegas RV Resort earns praise for its well-maintained grounds and security. "The resort is gated with a person at the gate 24/7. The restrooms were very clean and the swimming pool was not crowded at all," shares one camper. This adults-only park (18+) attracts those seeking a quieter environment.
Military Base Amenities: For eligible military personnel, Desert Eagle RV Park provides access to base facilities. "Commissary and base exchange are nice. The base seems to have all you need. Many restraints and box stores right down Craig Road less than a 10 minute drive," mentions one reviewer. The secure environment and military community atmosphere appeal to veterans and service members.
Shade in the Desert: Despite the arid environment, some campgrounds manage to provide relief from the heat. "They have planted lots of trees in the campground for shade in the middle of the desert. So from the highway you come in at, it looks like a little oasis in the middle of the desert," reports a camper at Las Vegas Bay Campground, highlighting how this unexpected shade enhances the camping experience.
What you should know
Aircraft Noise Levels: The proximity to Nellis Air Force Base means regular aircraft operations affect many nearby camping areas. "Nellis AFB flyovers started at 7 am and were on/off all day. If you want a place to sleep in, this is not it," explains a camper at Hitchin' Post RV Park. Some visitors enjoy the aviation displays while others find the noise disruptive.
Water Access Limitations: Despite being near Lake Mead, water levels fluctuate significantly. "It used to be a convenient place to camp close to the Las Vegas Bay Marina. The marina is now closed to docking," notes a visitor to Las Vegas Bay Campground, indicating how changing water conditions affect recreation options.
Military-Only Restrictions: Some camping facilities require military credentials. "Great little place if you are military. Must be or have served in the service," clarifies a reviewer about Desert Eagle RV Park, emphasizing the importance of verifying eligibility before planning a stay.
Tips for camping with families
Age Restrictions Apply: Not all RV parks welcome children. "Not family friendly at all!! You must be 18 or older to come here so it's cool for people without kids or families," warns a reviewer about Las Vegas RV Resort. Always verify age policies when booking with children.
Casino Campground Alternatives: Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam's Town offers family-friendly amenities near gaming facilities. "We booked this last minute and had a great time at the park. The pool was closed, but they gave us access to the Sam's Town hotel pool...They welcomed our kiddos when booking, unlike another local RV venue," shares a family, highlighting the balance between Vegas entertainment and family accommodation.
Desert Safety Preparation: High temperatures demand special precautions with children. "Wear water shoes and bring protection from the weather elements. It gets hot so pack a lot of water and sunblock. Totally family-friendly, So bring rafts and fishing gear," advises a visitor to Government Wash, emphasizing the importance of heat safety while enjoying water activities.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection Strategy: At casino campgrounds, request specific sites when possible. "There are a couple of spots (on the end of the rows) with trees. If you call in your reservation you can request a specific spot number and there is a map of the camp ground on the website," recommends an RVer at Circus Circus RV Park, noting how strategic placement can improve your stay.
Off-Grid Preparation: For those seeking dispersed camping options, solar capabilities prove valuable. "We outfitted our travel trailer with solar so we can RR at dispersed sites like this (free roam camping)," shares a camper at Government Wash, highlighting how self-sufficient power systems expand camping location options.
Morning Departure Planning: Due to extreme summer heat, many RVers recommend early travel. "Make sure you have good ac. It was 112F and the sun was beating down, even at night it was 90+. There is no shade," cautions a visitor to Circus Circus RV Park, underscoring how temperature management affects travel scheduling.
