Nevada's Washoe Valley lies between Carson City and Reno at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, creating a distinct camping environment with significant temperature variations between day and night. Summer days often reach 90°F while nights can drop below 50°F, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closing from October through May.
What to do
River access exploration: Boyington Mill offers direct access to the Little Truckee River where campers can wade, fish, or simply relax. According to one visitor, "Wake up with the Little Truckee River a stones throw from your window. Bear boxes because we are in bear country. Ample space, lots to explore in the area."
Winter camping experiences: Tahoe Valley Campground remains open year-round, providing a base for snow activities. One camper shared their experience: "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. For a last minute find, it turned out to be an awesome choice. It was the weekend after Thanksgiving and snowing so there were a handful of people at the campground and the entire place was very quiet."
Dog-friendly beaches: For travelers with pets seeking glamping near Washoe Valley, several locations offer pet-specific areas. "We had 2 small dogs so they went allowed on the Zephyr Cove beach, but a short walk to the right there is a dog friendly beach. I would argue it's even better part of the beach. Nice rock formations and sandy beach," noted one visitor to Tahoe Valley Campground.
What campers like
Seasonal quiet: Many campgrounds become surprisingly peaceful during shoulder seasons. A Fallen Leaf Campground visitor reported, "The staff here gets the first shout out. Lana Banana and Mary at the front create a real pleasant atmosphere as you roll in... Cell service is unlikely. Sites have nice bear boxes, are very well maintained by the hosts."
Access to mountains and water: Campers appreciate the dual access to mountains and lakes. "Right on the lake and excellent camp hosts (Michelle and her husband)," mentioned one camper at Meeks Bay, highlighting the benefit of having both forest and water recreation within walking distance.
Limited crowds in off-peak times: Nevada Beach Campground offers a completely different experience outside summer. "Even after all of the development and human impacts, Zephyr Cove and Lake Tahoe are very nice spots for family camping and outings. Try it after Labor Day, when many summer-season tourists leave, if you are ready for chilly weather and the occasional early-season snowfall in exchange for a quieter experience."
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are common throughout the area and proper food storage is mandatory. A camper at Meeks Bay warned, "Bears are a real issue, so they have big bear boxes at each site - make sure to use them. Do not leave food in your car, especially on the outside."
Temperature fluctuations: Pack for both hot days and cold nights, even in summer. One William Kent Campground visitor noted the benefits of nearby amenities: "The Bathrooms were clean (the furthest were being renovated). Laundry room was clean. By the time dinner time arrived, the entire lot was full of RVs and families which made the parking lot seem more welcoming."
Reservation requirements: Most sites fill months in advance, especially for weekend stays during summer. A visitor to Shamrock RV Park advised, "We were quoted $490 over the phone, but in person, my disabled-veteran partner was told $790. The park refused to honor both Good Sam and veteran discounts, even though both are listed."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: William Kent Campground provides convenient access to lake activities and infrastructure. "Conveniently located within walking distance of a lot of different places. Beautiful campground. Only enough parking for one car per a spot. Decent bathrooms," noted one visitor, highlighting its accessibility for families.
Campground selection impacts experience: For glamping in Washoe Valley and surrounding areas with children, site selection matters significantly. "The sites have almost zero shade and most have no grass. The bathrooms/showers close from midnight to 6 am. But, they have a bowling alley, swimming pool, casino, escape rooms, movie theater, arcade, fitness center, Starbucks, more than 5 restaurants, and it goes on."
Dog-specific considerations: Families camping with pets face restrictions at many beaches. As one camper at Tahoe Valley explained, "We came into south lake to visit family. This campground is right in town but there's enough space and trees to give it a natural setting. Bathrooms are great and it's pretty quiet considering it's popular. Looks great for families and there's a dog park, pool and trails."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Carson RV Resort offers spacious sites compared to many alternatives. A visitor remarked, "We normally prefer wilderness parks, and generally avoid RV parks. We've stayed in a few though and this one is by far the absolute nicest one we've ever stayed in! It recently changed ownership and the new owners have invested in a first-class place!"
Unexpected fees: Budget for additional costs beyond the base rate. At Grand Sierra Resort RV Park, a camper warned, "Huge disappointment! We were so excited, passing through Reno, we got a 'standard' site, so we could get a nice steak at the Charlie Palmer Steakhouse, drop some money at the blackjack tables and get a good night sleep in our trailer. Instead we arrived at 6:10, so the office was closed. There were tons of 'premium' sites that we were told were not available."
Limited overflow options: When main sites are full, overflow areas provide significantly different experiences. "Not a fan. Came for the Reno Balloon Race; booked it 4 months in advance. But they only had overflow available... There's no sewer hookup; you can dump at the end. You have to share the water hose with other RVs during your stay."
