Best Campgrounds near Tonopah, NV

Dispersed camping options dominate the landscape around Tonopah, Nevada, with several free sites located along highways and near Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. The high desert terrain surrounding this historic mining town accommodates both tent and RV camping, with popular spots including Tonopah Dispersed Camping near the BLM office and Goldfield Road Dispersed sites. Developed facilities like Tonopah RV and Tonopah Station Casino RV Park provide full hookups for travelers seeking amenities, while dispersed camping areas offer more solitude with minimal facilities. The region includes numerous pullouts and gravel roads leading to primitive camping areas, particularly along Highway 95 and near the Stargazing Park.

Road conditions vary significantly across the camping areas, with most dispersed sites accessible via gravel roads that may be washboarded or soft in sections. High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote areas. Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F during the day while dropping considerably at night. "This dispersed camping site is located right off highway 95 in Tonopah, about half way between Reno and Las Vegas. It is not a destination camping site, but a great place to get some sleep along the way," notes one camper about the Tonopah Dispersed site. Wind is frequently mentioned in reviews, with dust accumulation being a common concern for tent campers. Cell service is generally available near town but becomes spotty in outlying areas. Most dispersed sites have no water, toilets, or trash facilities, requiring visitors to pack out all waste.

The stargazing opportunities near Tonopah represent a significant draw for campers, with minimal light pollution offering exceptional night sky viewing. Several visitors mentioned the convenience of dispersed sites for overnight stays while traveling between Reno and Las Vegas. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "We found this spot quiet and it had easy access off from hwy 95 as you're entering Tonopah from the south." Wildlife sightings are common, particularly near water sources like McKinney Tanks Camp, which features distinctive desert scenery and a tire swing. Noise levels vary by location, with sites closer to highways experiencing some traffic sounds, though many reviewers note that nighttime traffic is minimal. The surrounding landscape offers exploration opportunities with historic mining sites, ghost towns, and desert terrain accessible from most camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Tonopah, Nevada (19)

    1. Tonopah RV

    6 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (775) 482-1700

    $25 - $35 / night

    "We were amazed how Tonopah had changed in two years and found out the reason. Silver and gold veins had again been found in the hills near here."

    "The sites are level but construction at the entrance makes the terrain broken up."

    2. Tonopah Station Casino RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 482-9777

    $40 / night

    "We pulled into to Tonopah as a halfway stop between Reno and Nellis AFB. They are first come, first serve, so try to arrive before it gets too late."

    "RV section behind the main building, with full & partial hookups and 50/30 amp pedestals. Restaurant food is good with friendly staff to answer questions. $27.00 + tax/day."

    3. Tonopah Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    4 miles

    "We found this spot quiet and it had easy access off from hwy 95 as you're entering Tonopah from the south."

    "This is a great place for a easy roadside stop. It appears as a dirt road beside the BLM office that is easy to miss."

    4. Tonopah, NV Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    17 miles

    "This dispersed area is right off the 95 highway right as you come in to town or leave it based on the direction of travel.  You park up on a hill that overlooks a vast mountain range.  "

    "If you enter Tonopah from the south it is on the right, immediately after passing the 76 station. Look for the Stargazing Park sign. Then drive on up to the fenced park or to th hilltop just beyond."

    5. McKinney Tanks Camp

    6 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    19 miles

    "Fine, cute spot with tire swing and pretty scenery right off the highway near Tonopah. One other car arrived and parked pretty close to me but the spot felt safe and relatively clean."

    "Put in GPS hard to see entrance. 4G on T-Mobile."

    6. Joy Land RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Tonopah, NV
    3 miles
    +1 (775) 482-9444

    7. Goldfield Road Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    25 miles

    "Any vehicle could drive it. The directions take you to a perfect parking place and RV length could park at. Far enough from the highway that it was quiet sleeping. Wild burros are so cute."

    "Great location to go to Gemfield! Rode our bikes the 1 1/2 miles up the road and had a great day rockhounding. Nice level spot to camp there’s several spots for big rigs."

    8. Crescent Sand Dunes

    Be the first to review!
    Tonopah, NV
    10 miles
    +1 (775) 482-7800

    9. Clark's Custom Camp

    5 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 485-3460

    $35 / night

    "I've passed through Goldfield Nevada several times and always wanted to stay long enough to explore it more. In October 2020 I did just that."

    "The park is got showers and 50 amp hookups in a concrete pad next to you the manager Georgie is just an extremely nice person and definitely helpful she make sure your guided right into your spot"

    10. Goldfield Miner's Camp

    2 Reviews
    Tonopah, NV
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (855) 453-3535

    $20 - $40 / night

    "The privacy of the spot next to the assay office was appreciated- and the grounds were quiet.
    I'm looking forward to our return visit!"

    "Noise from the main highway, Rt 95, is minimal."

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Recent Reviews near Tonopah, NV

58 Reviews of 19 Tonopah Campgrounds



Guide to Tonopah

Camping near Tonopah, Nevada, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Stargazing: The clear skies around Tonopah are perfect for stargazing. One camper mentioned, “We parked next to the Stargazing Park which is surrounded by a cyclone fence, perfect for our dog” while enjoying the night sky.
  • Exploring Ghost Towns: Visit the nearby Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park, where you can explore the ghost town of Berlin and see the largest collection of ichthyosaur fossils. A reviewer noted, “This campground is out in the middle of nowhere! Nice campsites, gravel with tables, shade and fire pits.”
  • Hiking: There are several trails in the area, including those near Peavine Campground. One visitor shared, “It was so quiet and peaceful with the creek running through it,” highlighting the serene hiking experience.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One review for Tonopah, NV Dispersed Camping states, “Nice views. Joshua trees nearby.”
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many appreciate the tranquility of the area. A camper at Clark's Custom Camp said, “Easy access but still quiet,” making it a great spot for relaxation.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the ample space at various campgrounds. A review for Tonopah RV mentioned, “Clean, easy on and off highway,” which is great for those traveling with larger rigs.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Tonopah, NV Dispersed Camping, do not offer amenities like drinking water or toilets. A camper warned, “No amenities so come prepared!”
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough. A visitor at Peavine Campground noted, “Roughly 30 minutes from the main highway, tucked away in a canyon past some quarry work and ranch land.”
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper mentioned, “Lost a star for poor Wi-Fi reception in RV (good in lounge area) and noisy burros at night!” at Clark's Custom Camp.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Entertainment: With limited cell service, it’s a good idea to bring games or books. A family camper at Tonopah RV said, “Parking lot right outside of town. Windy..no wi fi.”
  • Plan for Meals: Since some campgrounds lack markets, plan your meals ahead. A visitor noted, “There’s a gas station across the street and just a mile or so from town and stores” at Tonopah, NV Dispersed Camping.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One camper shared, “Had this spot marked on my mapping programs for a while,” emphasizing the importance of knowing your surroundings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Conditions: Before heading out, check the campground conditions. A reviewer at Tonopah RV mentioned, “Unfortunately they had had a lot of rain so the site was very muddy.”
  • Leveling Your RV: Some sites may not be level. A camper noted, “Not level as whole campground is on a slant,” which can be tricky for new RVers.
  • Stay Connected: If you need to work remotely, check for service beforehand. A visitor at Peavine Campground said, “No service with Verizon, but the canyon was quiet and will get you through the night in private.”

Camping near Tonopah, Nevada, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unique challenges and rewards this area offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free or overnight camping available near Tonopah?

Yes, several free dispersed camping options exist near Tonopah. Tonopah Dispersed Camping is located right off Highway 95 as you enter town, offering level spots with beautiful mountain views and convenient access. For overnight travelers, Saulsbury Wash Rest Area Hwy 6 provides a quiet stop with clean bathrooms, picnic tables, and grills. This rest area has 10-15 parking spaces but no water or flush toilets. Both locations are excellent for quick overnight stays while traveling through the area, with easy access from major highways.

What RV parks and facilities are available in Tonopah?

Tonopah has several RV parks with varying amenities. Tonopah Station Casino RV Park offers level spots with full hookups (30/50 amp), strong water pressure, excellent cell service, and on-site laundry facilities. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Tonopah RV is conveniently located near town amenities, though it can be windy and experiences highway noise. The park has laundry facilities, though not all machines may be operational. Both parks serve well as overnight stops when traveling between Reno and Las Vegas, offering the essential amenities RVers need for comfortable stays.

Where are the best campgrounds in Tonopah, Nevada?

Tonopah offers several quality camping options for visitors. McKinney Tanks Camp is a charming dispersed site featuring a tire swing and scenic views, though it sits under power lines and has some highway noise. For those seeking unique experiences, consider exploring Clark's Custom Camp in nearby Goldfield, which provides an excellent base for exploring this historic area. The region also features several other dispersed camping areas with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. The best choice depends on whether you prefer established facilities or more rustic, off-grid experiences in the beautiful Nevada desert.