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Best Tent Camping near Washoe Valley, NV

1,001 Reviews

Primitive tent camping options near Washoe Valley provide access to mountain views and desert terrain within a short drive from Reno. Reno View Dispersed camping area offers basic tent sites with panoramic views of the city lights, while North Canyon Campground provides a more established tent camping experience with picnic tables and vault toilets. The Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch offers tent camping with the unique experience of alpacas roaming freely among campsites.

Road conditions and site terrain vary significantly between established and dispersed tent camping areas. Reno View Dispersed requires high-clearance vehicles to navigate the unmaintained access road. According to one visitor, "The road is a beast. I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck." Most tent sites lack amenities such as potable water, requiring campers to pack in all necessary supplies. Primitive dispersed sites typically offer no facilities, while established campgrounds like North Canyon provide vault toilets. Ground conditions can be rocky and challenging for tent setup, with several reviewers noting issues with goatheads and thorny vegetation that can puncture tent floors.

Tent campers in the Washoe Valley region experience dramatic temperature variations between day and night due to the high desert climate. Sites at higher elevations provide cooler temperatures during summer months but may be windy. One camper noted that "Very rocky ground and a little windy so ground tents might be tough." Views from dispersed sites often include mountains, valley vistas, and city lights after dark. Most tent sites are relatively exposed with limited tree cover, making shade structures advisable during summer months. Wildlife encounters are common, and established campgrounds typically enforce food storage regulations to prevent wildlife conflicts. Sites nearest to Reno may experience road noise, while more remote dispersed camping areas provide greater solitude but require more self-sufficiency.

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Best Tent Sites Near Washoe Valley, Nevada (60)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Washoe Valley, NV

25 Photos of 60 Washoe Valley Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Washoe Valley, NV

1001 Reviews of 60 Washoe Valley Campgrounds

  • Dani P.
    Jul. 12, 2019

    Meeks Bay

    Beautiful and big family oriented campground

    Just a small walk away from Lake Tahoe shore. Big beautiful trees cover the entire campground. A couple bathrooms that surprisingly do not smell bad and have a running faucet. Bears are a real issue, so they have big bear boxes at each site - make sure to use them. Sites close together and not much privacy. Camp Host on site. Very limited parking at the sites, but free parking if you park outside of the campground along the main road and walk in. Do not leave food in your car, especially on the outside. And dont forget to Leave No Trace!

  • Susan B.
    Jun. 27, 2016

    Davis Creek Regional Park

    Good for a couple of days

    Since this campground is on an incline, one is protected from the Washoe Valley winds. The campsites are well marked and have a parking space. Only one car is allowed per space, so if a group is going to take multiple campsites, only one car per parking pad, the rest have to park down by the main entrance. Many hiking trails here. The pond still has not recovered from the drought. The bathrooms have flush toilets. There are two group campgrounds, one walk-in tent only and a RV only. One downside, now that the new I-580 has been built, there is some freeway noise at night.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2023

    General Creek Campground — Sugar Pine Point State Park

    Available off-season camping near Lake Tahoe

    After October 2, it is first come, first available and only sites 26-72 were open so my review is limited to a small portion of the campground. When I researched ahead of time, it was the ONLY open campground I could find in the Lake Tahoe area. At least the per night rate was decreased to $25 ($23 for seniors). I don’t know about the rest of the loops but most of the sites in the open loop appeared to be “doubles” or even “triples”; the camper pads were paved but appeared to be side-by-side parking spaces. Fortunately, there were not many campers so this was not a problem, however, if the park were more crowded, this layout would only make sense if the camper pads were used to park vehicles and people tent camped. All sites appeared to be level. No hookups. Each site had a large picnic table, fire ring, and bear box. 

    We had been warned multiple times that we were camping in an active bear area and although we did not encounter any, one of the other campers told us they had seen a mama and bear cub, along with a coyote. 

    The showers and dump station were closed for the season. There was no host on-site. The restrooms were very basic: toilet and sink but no soap, paper towels, or air dryers. 

    My rating might have been higher if we could have seen other parts of the campground, but our experience was limited to one night and we did not visit the day-use area.

  • Summer A.
    Jul. 25, 2018

    Big Meadows Campground

    Sequoia National Forest Lovely Spacious Camp Sites

    It sounds like there are multiple Big Meadow camp grounds in California. This review is for Big Meadow Campground, Sequoia NF - FS, CA. The photos are of site 009B. My visit was wonderful. The camp sites are large. We set up two 8 person tents and one 2 person tent and there was plenty of room for more. The firepits are very well made. They block the wind while allowing good airflow. There is a very large picnick table at each site, a bear box, and plenty of shade. There is a vault toilet that is cleaned daily. The sites boarder a stream. The water level is about 3 inches in July with temperatures in the 80's. This is a dog friendly site. There is no potable water at this site.

  • Elliott B.
    Sep. 28, 2018

    Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe

    Nice location, but has a few major issues

    We got a last minute cancelled site at the Fallen Leaf Campground, and thought we’d truly lucked out. We stayed at site 87 which is nestled among towering native pine trees on the South end of the campground and one of the few sites which doesn’t have neighbors on all sides. The sites have the standard standing BBQ's and fire rings at all sites (but we couldn’t utilize them because of the fire ban), old picnic tables and various amounts of space for RV’s/cars and the tried and true bear box. In this campground you NEED to utilize the bear boxes. They have signs everywhere about the mass amount of bear activity and how there is a mother and her 2 cubs which have been terrorizing the campground for some time this season (2018). Again, you need to keep everything (food, toiletries, etc.) in the bear box at all times. The sites are reservable, and on top of the $35 (nonelectric) per site there is a $7 fee for a second vehicle, Yurts go for $86 which do have power and a nonrefundable $10 service fee…. While the campground allows dogs, they aren’t allowed in the Yurts.

    There’s lots of bear proof dumpsters around the campground, lots of potable water in strategic spots and a number of decent restrooms, and it was nice that at some of them they provided hot (pay) showers (at $1 per 3 minutes) and while the ADA has some control the standard one has no control over the heat or pressure its simply on or off. Also, the restrooms have no soap, paper towels, or hand dryers, etc. Which was a little disappointing for the cost.

    My biggest disappointment in the setup of the campground has to do with the bears and cleaning your dishes. There is no dish-washing area in the entire ~200 site, ~14 bathroom campground. They specifically ask that you don’t wash your dishes in the sinks or at the water spigots as they don’t want any food particles going down the drains. So, when I asked about disposing of the dish water they said to just toss it at the base of a tree, as it’s dry and the trees would appreciate it. This doesn’t help keep the bears away… While we scrapped and collected every bit of food waste we could and tossed it into the dumpsters, ff you’re just tossing food scrap-soaked water at the base of the trees the bears are going to come for the smell… I’ve stayed at other sites in bear country which have setups for disposing of the waste water and food scraps to detract bears and Fallen Leaf definitely is lacking and this is possibly part of the reason they’re having such an issue with bears.

    While, our site (87) would probably normally be a great location with the Fallen Leaf Lake being the only thing behind you and no neighbors on at least 2 of your sides, we happened to somehow book the same weekend that a corporate event was taking over the vast majority of the campground with almost 200 people….

    While, not entirely the campgrounds fault it was a little disruptive to have this mass number of people come directly next to us in site 88 for their meals as they’d decided to make that site the meal prep site for breakfast (they started prep at 5:30 am) and dinner (we actually had to ask the drunk group to stop screaming at midnight) these were both well outside the “quiet hours” and definitely surpassed the “6 people per site” rule.

    Otherwise this campground is in a great location to see the area as it’s only approximately one-quarter mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake. The trail from the campground was only 3 sites over from us. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is directly across Highway 89 and is a great location to talk to the Rangers about other potential hikes in the area. They also have interpretive programs, guided walks on the Rainbow Trail and to the Stream Profile Chamber (which was closed because someone decided to break it. Although it should be repaired now… end of September 2018). Also, nearby Baldwin Beaches or Pope Beach, which cost $10, or you can go to the Tallac Historic Site with tours and events at its historic buildings and grounds and the free (dog friendly) Kiva beach which is exactly the same as the other pay access beaches….

    There’s also a really nice paved bike trail that runs 3 miles along Highway 89 and can be used to access all of the above. You have access to excellent day hiking and backpacking in Desolation Wilderness via the Glen Alpine or Mt. Tallac trailheads which are also nearby.

  • kathleen K.
    Jul. 2, 2021

    Dayton State Park Campground

    Unexpected Oasis

    First stop in my early summer road trip. Stayed for two nights. Easy self pay station at the front entrance. To get to the campground at the first right little dirt road before the pay station. Entrance into the park patch to the campground has a limited day-use fee also and there is group they use facilities with a large barbecue and outdoor sink that you would be able to wash dishes at if necessary. Great shaded spot in the middle of the desert. This was quite the unexpected little Oasis. Comes with peacocks. Limited number of spots available for tent camping or RV camping with no hookups. There are water spickets available and the park part of this Campground has flush toilets. The campground itself comes with a fire ring and a picnic bench. Trees are plentiful shade is wonderful the heat in this area in the summer time is Relentless but the shade is perfect at this location. There are peacocks on the property that apparently come from somewhere else I believe there are at least three of them they do make noise at night but it's not ridiculous unless there are coyotes on the property. Beware this is the desert there is wild life. Do not leave your food out at night. Bear boxes are not provided but keep your food items inside of your tent or your vehicle or lock them up. I did not have any issues because I am Savvy to the situation. I had a wonderful time hiking around and exploring the area through the trails making my way to the Carson River. This place is a gem and I will be back!

  • Elliott B.
    Sep. 27, 2018

    Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park

    Campground with a beautiful layout

    I walked through the seasonally closed Eagle Point Campground while exploring the Emerald Bay section of Lake Tahoe. This campground is a newly renovated area of the peninsula on the South/West side of the Emerald Bay State Park separated into Upper and Lower sections.

    Since the campground was closed we had to park on Highway 89 and walk through the campground to get to the Rubicon Trailhead which is located at the divider between the 2 camping sections.

    As we hiked through I was really blown away with the layout of the campground. I loved that these sites were almost a multi-leveled. Meaning that your tent site might be 10 feet lower than your picnic table, bear box, etc. or it could have a raised fire pit on a small bluff above the tent pad, table. Each site was unique, and this added to the separation between sites, so you’re not on the same level and directly next to your neighbors, adding to the feeling of being in the wilderness. (At least to me)

    Also, it should be pointed out that there were signs everywhere about using your bear boxes and that they’d fine you if you leave anything in your car. I know some people seem to have an issue with this for some reason…but I don’t want a bear roaming through any campground I’m staying at.

    There weren’t any sites that I saw which could hold an RV or 5th wheel, unless you have something under 18 feet… So maybe tents only, and there are no hookups. While I know I got a sterile experience since no one was actually camping, the campground was very clean and well maintained and the restrooms looked really nice. They had running water, flush toilets and pay showers ($1 per 3 minutes). The little amphitheater at the trailhead was cool and seemed ideally setup for presentations with incredible views of Lake Tahoe.

    While pets are allowed in the campground, they’re not allowed on the Emerald Bay SP trails or beaches. Sites are $35 and all are reservable 6 month out, so

  • Shane C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2022

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping with campground layout/feel

    Camped here for a night in early October. Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east. Most sites are obvious, with a driveway and stone fire ring. We like a more "dispersed" feel, but felt comfortable. 

    There are no services - bring all the water you will need and practice "leave no trace." This goes for your waste (human and animal) as well. I wish I could say that we didn't see any dog waste or "TP Flowers" but we did. Not a significant amount, but any is too much.

    The place was pretty much full, but still good vibes and quiet neighbors. Very close to Hwy. 88, so road noise and campers coming in looking for a spot after dark. Gets quiet later in the evening.

    Overall, a nice spot.

  • Patricia O.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2018

    Lindsey Lake Campground

    Rustic and remote

    There are only a few campsites here, 12, I think, and a rough road getting (SUV or truck recommended) into the campground. Once you reach camp, you’ll be rewarded with serene and beautiful surroundings. Lots of lakes and hiking in the area. Mosquitos can be a problem so come prepared. Vault toilet. No trash service, no piped water. There are picnic tables and fire rings.

Guide to Washoe Valley

Tent campers near Washoe Valley face rocky terrain that requires careful site selection and preparation. The area sits at elevations between 5,000-6,000 feet where nighttime temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even in summer. Most dispersed sites lack facilities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out waste, while established campgrounds offer basic amenities like vault toilets and occasionally picnic tables.

What to do

Wildlife viewing along waterways: Lahontan State Recreation Area offers opportunities to spot desert wildlife near the water's edge. One camper noted, "The view is Beautiful. Restrooms available," making it a practical base for nature observation.

Alpaca interactions: At Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch, visitors can enjoy a unique camping experience with alpacas. As one camper shared, "There were so many alpacas, all very cute and friendly! I parked behind a hay stack and next to a picnic table where I could set up my little kitchen."

Fishing in nearby streams: Sagehen Creek Campground offers fishing opportunities in its small creek. According to a visitor, "Small Creek runs near the sites with little brookies. Study area near by pay attention where you are fishing."

What campers like

Mountain backdrops: Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch provides stunning mountain scenery. A camper mentioned, "We walked along the creek and just relaxed. Very quiet and the backdrop of the mountains was beautiful."

Proximity to services: For tent campers needing supplies, some sites provide quick access to nearby towns. At Lahontan State Recreation Area, a reviewer noted it's "not close to amenities and no hookups- bring water," highlighting the need for preparation despite relative proximity to civilization.

Waterfront access: Donner Memorial State Park Campground offers lake access for tent campers. As one visitor explained, "Just a short walk to the lake and there are easy walking trails. There is a nice museum/visitor center and lots to do in the area."

What you should know

Seasonal closures affect availability: Not all campgrounds remain open year-round. One camper reported about Lake Forest Campground, "The open season is not listed on their website, but I can confirm the campground is closed in November."

Road conditions vary widely: Many dispersed camping sites require appropriate vehicles. At Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp, one camper warned, "Not really sure if we camped in the right spot. It isn't great, but it got the job done to just crash for a night. Felt like we were in a construction zone."

Thorny plants and difficult terrain: Many tent camping areas in Washoe Valley have challenging ground conditions. At Lahontan State Recreation Area, a camper cautioned, "Be careful!!! Almost got stuck in the sand while trying to find a spot level enough to park. Many people had dug out around their trailer to get the slides out."

Tips for camping with families

Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Donner Memorial State Park Campground provides family-friendly facilities. A 12-year-old camper reported, "I am a 12 year old and I had tons of fun. Me and my friends were up there and there was conveniently a campground available in there same campsite. We went in the summer and the water was perfect!"

Look for educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning experiences. A camper at Donner Memorial noted, "Donner Memorial has three camps within this large campground. Two of them have quick walking access to the lake. One is situated between. Most campsites are large. Kids age 0-99 rule the day as there are boulders all around for to climb, a lake to swim in, trails to hike and paved loops for riding bikes."

Consider proximity to medical services: When tent camping in Washoe Valley with families, stay within reasonable distance of emergency services. North Canyon Campground offers tent camping but has limited communication options: "Hard to get any signal in this Canyon & texting is hard to accomplish as most of the time you have no service & at best only have 1 bar. Calling from here isn't really an option."

Tips from RVers

Sand hazards for vehicles: At Lahontan State Recreation Area, RVers encounter challenging ground conditions. One camper warned, "Several people used construction generators to power their rigs. Stayed for a weekend. Had a hard time leaving the trailer due to sand in the wind flying at high rates of speed."

Seasonal water levels affect access: Water conditions change throughout the year at some campgrounds. A visitor to Lahontan observed, "Camped overnight on the beach, but could not fully access location due to water conditions. The reservoir is completely full this year and the water has flooded out the established campground area and many beaches are not accessible."

Site selection is critical: When tent camping near Washoe Valley, choosing the right location matters. At Donner Memorial State Park, a camper advised, "Great place to camp. Close to Truckee so you can easily get supplies. Lots of trees give a private feel even though it is a busy campground. Good sized camp sites for the most part (I recall one loop has smaller ones)."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Washoe Valley, NV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Washoe Valley, NV is Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Washoe Valley, NV?

TheDyrt.com has all 60 tent camping locations near Washoe Valley, NV, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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