Tonopah sits at 6,030 feet elevation in central Nevada, where temperature swings of 30°F between day and night are common. The high desert climate creates clear, dark skies that make Tonopah one of America's top stargazing destinations. RV camping options in this region primarily serve as convenient overnight stops along Highway 95 rather than destination campgrounds.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: Tonopah's designation as one of the darkest sky locations in the US makes nighttime viewing exceptional. At McKinney Tanks Camp, campers report "a sky full of stars" though "rodents loved to visit the camp throughout the night."
Gemfield rockhounding: Just outside Goldfield, explore for minerals and gems. "Great location to go to Gemfield! Rode our bikes the 1 1/2 miles up the road and had a great day rockhounding," notes a camper at Goldfield Road Dispersed.
Historic walking tours: Explore Goldfield's mining history on foot. "Easy to find and nice walk into Goldfield for the walking tour. Host very friendly and helpful," reports a visitor about Clark's Custom Camp.
Soak in hot springs: Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs offers natural bathing with "a man-made pool and then several concentric pools coming out from that each cooler in temperature." One visitor describes it as "definitely the best. Super clean, beautiful and remote."
What campers like
Wild burro encounters: The Goldfield area is home to free-roaming burros. "Wild burros are so cute," says one camper, while another mentions, "Wake up to donkeys in the area" at Goldfield Road Dispersed.
Clean bathrooms: Despite simple accommodations, bathroom cleanliness stands out at Goldfield Miner's Camp, with one reviewer noting, "Don't be dissuaded by the two 'Outhouses' - there are two complete facilities, each with shower, sink, and toilet. Very clean."
Dark night skies: The minimal light pollution creates memorable stargazing. "There is absolutely no light pollution here, so the skies when clear are awesome, as was the view of the snow capped White Mountains to the West," reports a camper at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs.
Convenient grocery access: The proximity to shopping at Tonopah Station Casino RV Park earns praise: "Raley's grocery store is off the other side of the same parking lot - super convenient."
What you should know
Winter water limitations: During colder months, some facilities restrict water access. At Tonopah RV, "During the winter there is no water at sites but they do have a spot you can fill up."
Road conditions vary: Access to dispersed sites often requires careful driving. "Gemfield Rd. is pretty rough for pulling a trailer. Lots of washboards & big holes. Just take it slow, and all is well," advises a camper at Goldfield Road.
Uneven surfaces: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "Not level as whole campground is on a slant. Being new to this we couldn't get level," reports a Tonopah RV visitor.
Limited amenities: Most sites offer basic services. "Dirt lot with power, sewer, and cable. During the winter there is no water at sites but they do have a spot you can fill up. Wifi was ok. Ok place to spend the night," notes a Tonopah RV reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Visit historic attractions: The area's mining history offers educational opportunities. "There's so much history in Goldfield a person really ought to stay for two or three days to see everything," suggests a visitor at Clark's Custom Camp.
Pack for temperature swings: The high desert experiences dramatic cooling at night, regardless of daytime heat. "We were glad to see a high of 90 here versus the 110 prediction we'd just left," mentions a Tonopah RV camper.
Check cellular coverage: Connectivity varies widely between sites. At Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs, campers report "zero AT&T service," while others note "Full Verizon & Streaming with T-Mobile Home" at Goldfield Road.
Explore unique facilities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities like "bikes to use while in town" at Goldfield Miner's Camp, where one visitor appreciated "Clean, accessible bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, super supportive host."
Tips from RVers
Arrive early for first-come sites: At Tonopah Station Casino RV Park, a visitor advises, "We pulled into 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."
Check site levelness: Many report uneven surfaces requiring additional equipment. "Sites are on slight slope, power and water," notes a Tonopah Station Casino RV Park reviewer.
Watch for seasonal rate changes: Some parks adjust pricing based on customer frequency. At Tonopah RV, "The cost of the site seems to be based on how many times you have stayed here. We got a discount for being repeat customers."
Use RV parks as regional bases: The central location makes exploration convenient. "Between Reno and Las Vegas, these RV parks serve primarily as convenient overnight stops rather than destination campgrounds."
