Dispersed camping areas around Tonopah, Nevada sit at elevations between 5,500 and 6,000 feet in the high desert, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night. The region receives less than 5 inches of annual rainfall, making the primitive camping terrain dusty and sparse with minimal natural shade. Winter nights can drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution at Tonopah, NV Dispersed Camping creates exceptional astronomy conditions. "We parked next to the Stargazing Park which is surrounded by a cyclone fence, perfect for our dog," notes one camper who took advantage of the designated viewing area nearby.
Historical exploration: The McKinney Tanks Camp offers more than just overnight camping. "If you explore the surroundings a bit you'll find a ruined building, a still-flowing spring, and thousands of old tin cans. This a really pleasant and interesting place to camp," writes one visitor who discovered the historical elements.
Wildlife observation: Morning wildlife encounters provide entertainment for early risers. "We wake up to donkeys in the area," reported one camper about staying at Goldfield Road Dispersed camping. The Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs area attracts diverse wildlife, with one visitor noting abundant "frogs, ducks, birds, cows, fishes" near the water.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: The Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs receives consistently high ratings for its therapeutic waters. "This is definitely the best. Super clean, beautiful and remote. There is a man-made pool and then several concentric pools coming out from that each cooler in temperature," explains one visitor who appreciated the well-maintained springs.
Level parking spots: Finding flat terrain for comfortable sleeping ranks high in camper reviews. "FREE and easy to get in and out. Plus it was level," writes one reviewer about Tonopah Dispersed Camping, noting the practical advantage of the hilltop location which "overlooks a vast mountain range."
Easy highway access: Convenient overnight locations appeal to travelers passing through. "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 one camper about the accessibility of primitive sites near the main road.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough terrain. "Gemfield Rd. is pretty rough for pulling a trailer. Lots of washboards & big holes. Just take it slow, and all is well," advises one visitor about Goldfield Road Dispersed.
Wind exposure: The open desert landscape provides little protection from weather. One camper at Junction 95 & 266 reported: "We woke up in the morning to a pretty strong breeze, but it was still lovely."
Navigation challenges: Finding unmarked sites can be difficult, especially after dark. "The dirt road getting in was pretty washboarded and I have a larger truck so I just had to take it slow," explains one camper about Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs, while another visitor to Junction 95 & 266 noted the entrance was "indicated by two reflective stakes, otherwise it would be easy to miss."
Tips for camping with families
Unique play features: McKinney Tanks Camp offers a distinctive attraction for children. "The main site with the big cottonwood tree and tire swing is charming," describes one visitor, providing a natural play area in an otherwise sparse landscape.
Safety considerations: Limited cell service affects emergency communication options. "We had zero AT&T service. Starlink had speeds up to 8 MB/s," notes one family that stayed at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs, highlighting the importance of satellite communication options.
Wildlife education: Animal sightings create learning opportunities. One camper at Goldfield Road mentioned, "Wild burros are so cute," offering children a chance to observe desert wildlife from a safe distance.
Tips from RVers
Larger vehicle access: Junction 95 & 266 Dispersed Site accommodates bigger rigs. "There's a dirt road flanked by a cattle gate that's marked on the map on this app if you zoom in," explains one RVer who navigated to this site.
Parking considerations: Finding the right spot requires some investigation. "If you travel past the last large spot the road narrows. We were still able to turn around with a small trailer," advises one RVer about Tonopah Dispersed Camping.
Technical considerations: RVers should assess terrain before committing to a spot. One experienced RVer suggested: "Besides the sloping area around the tree, there is a flatter area near the old stone structure. Do note the road leading down is very rutted, so walk it first," providing practical advice for those camping at McKinney Tanks Camp.
