Best Campgrounds near Tonopah, NV

Dispersed camping sites near Tonopah, Nevada provide overnight options for travelers along Highway 95 between Reno and Las Vegas. This high desert region at 6,000 feet elevation experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, with frequent wind conditions. Road conditions to camping areas vary from well-maintained gravel to washboarded surfaces requiring careful navigation.

What to do

Rockhounding at Gemfield: Access prime gemstone hunting areas from Goldfield Road Dispersed camping area, located about 20 miles south of Tonopah. "Great location to go to Gemfield! Rode our bikes the 1 1/2 miles up the road and had a great day rockhounding," reports one camper who notes the area is accessible despite road conditions.

Explore ghost towns: The historic mining communities surrounding Tonopah offer opportunities to discover Nevada's mining heritage. "There's so much history in Goldfield a person really ought to stay for two or three days to see everything," writes a visitor at Clark's Custom Camp.

Wild burro watching: Several dispersed camping areas provide opportunities to observe free-roaming burros. "Wake up to donkeys in the area," notes one camper at Goldfield Road, while another mentions "Antelope run through the hills" in the same vicinity, offering wildlife photography opportunities.

What campers like

Easy roadside access: Many appreciate the convenient stops when traveling through central Nevada. "This was definitely a step above an off-ramp. We weren't able to get behind the bluff, but there's not a lot of night traffic on the Hwy anyway," explains a camper at Tonopah Dispersed Camping.

Exceptional night skies: The minimal light pollution creates ideal stargazing conditions. A camper at McKinney Tanks Camp reports: "It was quiet and had a sky full of stars," highlighting one of the area's most valued natural features.

Historic camping spots: Some dispersed sites feature remnants of Nevada's past. "The main site with the big cottonwood tree and tire swing is charming. If you explore the surroundings a bit you'll find a ruined building, a still-flowing spring, and thousands of old tin cans," notes a visitor to McKinney Tanks Camp.

What you should know

Weather and dust conditions: The high desert environment brings wind and fine dust. "Tonopah seems to be a bit windy and a fine layer of dust accumulated in our van during the night so you may want to 'batten down the hatches,'" advises a camper at Tonopah Dispersed Camping.

Road conditions vary: Some dispersed sites require careful driving. "Gemfield Rd. is pretty rough for pulling a trailer. Lots of washboards & big holes. Just take it slow, and all is well," reports a camper about access to Goldfield Road Dispersed.

Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping near Tonopah lacks basic amenities. For those needing facilities, Tonopah Station Casino RV Park offers an alternative: "We have a great level spot, great water pressure, full bars of cell service, full hookup 30/50 and laundry facilities on site," according to one reviewer.

Tips for camping with families

Tire swing at McKinney Tanks: This natural play feature makes camping with children more enjoyable. "Has a large tree with a rope swing. Has room for 2 vehicles. Nice and flat for tents also," shares a camper, making this a good option for families with young children.

Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for nighttime visitors at some camping areas. "Under the tree had a few ant's nests and rodents loved to visit the camp throughout the night," warns a camper at McKinney Tanks Camp.

Convenience factor: When traveling with kids, Tonopah RV provides easier access to town amenities. "We found this spot quiet and it had easy access off from hwy 95 as you're entering Tonopah from the south," notes one camper, which can be important when camping with children.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for levelness: Several RV campers mention the importance of finding level spots. "The sites are level but construction at the entrance makes the terrain broken up," notes a camper at Tonopah RV, emphasizing the need to scout suitable parking areas.

Weather preparedness: RVers should secure loose items due to frequent wind conditions. "It is not a destination camping site, but a great place to get some sleep along the way," explains a reviewer about dispersed camping near Tonopah.

Utility limitations: Water availability fluctuates seasonally at established campgrounds. "During the winter there is no water at sites but they do have a spot you can fill up," reports a camper at Tonopah RV, highlighting the need for RVers to arrive with adequate supplies.