Dispersed camping near Virginia City, Nevada concentrates in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) territories surrounding this historic mining town. Located at 6,200 feet elevation, this high desert region experiences temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, even in summer months. The Carson River runs approximately 10 miles east of town, providing riparian areas that contrast with the predominantly arid landscape.
What to do
Hiking along the Carson River: Fort Churchill's Scout Camp offers shaded trails beneath cottonwood trees. "Nice trail along the River," notes Virginia D., who also mentions "the access road to scout camp was washed out" as of late 2023, requiring campers to use "dispersed camping on the terrace to the south."
Explore historic sites: Dispersed camping near Fort Churchill puts you close to significant landmarks. "Since COVID has closed all state and national parks to camping, we were happy to find this BLM land for an overnight," reports Kailey C., who adds "we got service on both Verizon and Sprint!"
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at these sites often feature coyote activity. Kailey C. warns fellow campers to "keep everything inside" after "coyotes track around our van overnight" at the Fort Churchill area, highlighting the active wildlife presence in this desert region.
Stargazing opportunities: Reno View Dispersed camping provides exceptional night sky viewing. Don S. notes there are "a few sites about 4 miles back on an unmaintained road" with "the first turn off has the best view with somewhat flat ground for a tent."
What campers like
Proximity to Virginia City: Despite challenging access, BLM FLATTOP's location makes it worth the effort for some. "The road kinda sucks but VC is a good time," reports Alden B., who reminds visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles as "there was a lot of trash I had to pick up that was left behind by others."
Elevation and views: High-altitude camping provides expansive vistas of the region. At Reno View Dispersed camping, Tyler C. confirms "an awesome view of the lights of Reno" but cautions about vehicle requirements: "I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck. DO NOT bring up an RV/Trailer. you'll regret it."
Shade access at Scout Camp: The cottonwood forest provides relief from summer heat. Virginia D. describes Scout Camp at Fort Churchill as a "Gorgeous Riparian Forest" where campers can "camp in the shade or out in the open if it's very windy as the trees can shed branches."
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Most free camping near Virginia City requires navigating unmaintained roads. Alex B. at Reno View warns about extreme terrain challenges: "Views are unreal but would not suggest walking barefoot, tent camping or bringing dogs up here. The bottoms of our shoes looked like a warzone."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Always check current regulations before departure. Several campsites prohibit fires year-round while others allow them conditionally.
Limited facilities at most sites: BLM Water Tank Road Dispersed camping offers more amenities than most areas. Corey H. notes "The pullout also has a portajohn and sink if needed" but warns about morning activity: "There are many joggers and bikers that go up this road pretty much as soon as the sun goes over the hill."
Urban encroachment affecting some sites: Recent development impacts certain areas. Ron R. reported in 2024 that BLM Water Tank Road has become largely inaccessible: "The two closest roads coming in from the West are blocked off and labeled no unauthorized vehicles. This is due to the construction of the new neighborhoods."
Tips for camping with families
Best facilities option: Scout Camp at Fort Churchill provides more amenities than other dispersed sites. Hailey reports it feels "beautiful, open, and feels safe" while being "right off the main road with minimal traffic noise" making it particularly suitable for families.
Morning activities: Plan for early wake-ups with children. Corey H. notes at BLM Water Tank Road that "many joggers and bikers that go up this road pretty much as soon as the sun goes over the hill (about 6 in July)."
Safety considerations: Some areas have reported confrontational encounters. Tom S. warns bluntly about one area near Fort Churchill: "Don't camp here, had a gun pulled on me by a guy who 'owns' BLM land."
Tips from RVers
Road clearance limitations: Most free camping near Virginia City presents challenges for larger rigs. Janet M. explains: "We drove thru both Fort Churchill State Park Campground and Scout Camp nearby. We have a 36ft class A with a tow. Fort Churchill Campground is not accessible if you love the paint job on your rig."
Pullouts for larger vehicles: Some areas provide accessible parking without tackling the worst roads. At BLM Water Tank Road, Corey H. notes "There is a little pull out before you get to where the directions take you that is perfectly cool to camp. I wouldn't go all the way up that little stretch of road past the water tanks unless you have a 4x4."
Tent vs. vehicle camping considerations: Terrain affects camping style choices. Don S. reports at Reno View Dispersed camping: "Very rocky ground and a little windy so ground tents might be tough. RTT and campervans are perfect for this spot!"
