Dispersed camping options near Virginia City, Nevada provide alternative experiences to the established campgrounds in the area. These sites sit at elevations between 5,000-6,500 feet where summer temperatures can reach 90°F during the day but cool significantly at night. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing nights and potential snow, especially at higher elevations like BLM Flattop.
What to do
Hike Mount Rose Summit: Access hiking trails from Mount Rose Campground with views of Reno and surrounding mountains. "Nearby Relay Peak and Mt Rose summit are great hikes," notes camper Nile B. The campground provides a convenient base for multiple trailheads.
Visit wild horses: Stay at Washoe Lake State Park Campground where you might spot wild horses. "Wild horses roaming camp, quiet & clean," reports Jayne N. Winter visitors can still enjoy wildlife viewing as Andrew R. mentions, "Hiking is nice right from the campground and wild horses graze not far away."
Meet alpacas: For a unique experience, camp at Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch where you can interact with alpacas. "There were so many alpacas, all very cute and friendly!" writes Lindsay B. The ranch offers a working farm experience with "tons of other animals to check out during your stay."
What campers like
Winter camping access: Unlike many mountain campgrounds, some Virginia City area sites remain open year-round. At Washoe Lake State Park, "Winter camping is available on Loop A with full power hookups on a first come, first serve basis. Bathrooms are open all winter," according to Andrew R.
Urban-wilderness balance: The Reno View Dispersed site offers unique city views while camping. "An awesome view of the lights of Reno," reports Tyler C., though he cautions about road conditions: "The road is a beast. I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck."
Spacious sites: Davis Creek Regional Park gets high marks for site layout. "The sites were well spaced under the mature pines. So quiet and peaceful," writes Michael M. Another camper notes, "Very shady as it sits in a grove of tall mature pines."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current fire rules before your trip. Many dispersed sites have seasonal restrictions. At Reno View Dispersed, fires are not permitted, while Tyler C. notes it "can be very windy" which increases fire danger.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Some of the best camping locations require tough driving. BLM Flattop has challenging access: "The road starts out as a nice, easy fire road, gets a little rocky, and then by mile 6 or 7 it goes full blown rock garden," reports Kevin.
Seasonal closures: Verify campground status before traveling. Dayton State Park Campground is typically open year-round, but some sites close seasonally. Mount Rose Campground has limited operating season: "We were up there at the gate last Sunday 7/7/19 And the campsite was closed down the road look like no one had been on it."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom availability: Choose campgrounds with appropriate facilities. Dayton State Park Campground offers "bathrooms with flush toilets," according to John T., though he notes it's "very close to US HWY 50, and the road noise reflects that."
Age restrictions at casino RV parks: Some family-friendly amenities have unexpected limitations. At Sparks Marina RV Park, one visitor notes: "My children and I could not enjoy the amenities. Kids must be 18 to enjoy the spa even if accompanied by adults, had a great club house with a pool table but kids must be 14 to play."
Nature exploration opportunities: Davis Creek Regional Park offers family-friendly hiking options. "There are different levels of hikes from easy to more difficult. There are lots of trees with excellent shade and you can't beat the views of Washoe Valley when you get to the top," reports Lindsay B.
Tips from RVers
RV age restrictions: Some parks limit older RVs. Leah T. warns about Sparks Marina RV Park: "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website... But they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig. If you are honest, you are screwed."
Hookup availability in winter: For winter RV camping, know which utilities remain active. At Gold Dust West RV Park, "Spaces are a bit tight but easily doable. Laundry and showers very clean," says Gregg K. Another winter visitor to Washoe Lake notes: "We paid $25 instead of the full $30 required for an out-of-state vehicle at a hookup site. I think $5 was taken off since the water at the sites was still shut off."
Site dimensions: Virginia City RV Park has space limitations. "The whole park is tight with it looks like 50% long term residents who don't keep their sites very tidy," reports Kim G., adding "Just not our scene as it was too crowded."
