The Walker River area near Yerington, Nevada provides varied camping options from primitive riverside sites to developed RV parks with full amenities. Located at approximately 4,390 feet elevation in Lyon County, this high desert region experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer days often reaching 100°F while winter nights can drop to 15°F. Road access varies significantly by season, with some campgrounds accessible year-round while others require high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
What to do
ATV/UTV adventures: Walker River Resort caters to off-road enthusiasts with direct trail access from the campground. "We have so much fun at Walker River!! Side by sides, quads, dogs, miles and miles of trails and a ghost town we still haven't found," notes one camper who visited the resort.
Water activities: Topaz Lake Recreation Area offers boating, fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities on a scenic lake straddling the Nevada-California border. "Lake offers boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming. Boat launch and fish cleaning are a good distance from camp sites. Has a cleaning station for watercraft for invasive species," explains a visitor.
Historical exploration: Samuel Buckland Campground at Fort Churchill State Historic Park lets you explore Nevada's pioneer history. "Lots of birds and wildlife to observe as well. Close to the Fort Churchill historic fort for interest too," writes a camper who enjoyed both natural and historical elements.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Wilson Canyon provides simple access to the Walker River with minimal facilities but maximum river enjoyment. "A gravel rest stop with just open BLM land. Trash! Multiple trash cans! Multiple picnic benches. Right next to the water. Good for tubing," shares a camper about this accessible spot.
Modern amenities: Whispering River Ranch RV Park offers well-appointed sites with additional recreational facilities. "Pull through sites that can fit any RV. Each site also has a small grass area. Views of the Walker over from the walking trail were perfect. Kids welcome, two nice playgrounds and a pickleball court that they provided rackets for," reports a satisfied visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area provide opportunities to observe desert and riparian wildlife. "Scout camp is on the Carson river and within the tall cottonwoods. Camp in the shade or out in the open if it's very windy as the trees can shed branches. Nice trail along the River," notes a camper who appreciated the natural setting at Fort Churchill.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather extremes affect camping comfort throughout the year. Summer visits require shade and cooling strategies while winter demands insulation and heating. "Campground was empty weekdays, then packed for the weekend. The temp dropped to 27 at night, so the heater was important," mentions a winter visitor to Samuel Buckland Campground.
Road access challenges: Scout Camp at Fort Churchill and other sites may have changing road conditions. "As of October 2023 the access road to scout camp was washed out. But there is dispersed camping on the terrace to the south," warns a recent visitor, highlighting the need to check current conditions.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region with some areas having stronger signals than others. "At&t and Verizon work well. T-mobile does not. Wifi is sketchy no over the air TV," reports a camper at Walker River Resort, providing specific carrier information.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for sites with multiple activities for different ages. "We camp here regularly from spring to mid fall. Famous for its black and forest service atv/utv trails. Pool hot tub bar laundry," recommends a regular visitor to Walker River Resort.
Safety considerations: Desert conditions require extra precautions with children. "Family friendly. Late March is hot in the day and a little cool at night," advises a spring visitor to Scout Camp, highlighting the temperature variations to prepare for.
Playground access: Sportsman's Beach provides family-friendly facilities despite its remote location. "Grassy area for kids playing or throwing the ball or frisbee. Horse shoe game area. Big lake side beach. You can set up badminton or beach volleyball," details a parent who found multiple ways to keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most developed campgrounds offer partial or full hookups with varying amenities. "Lots of spaces here with picnic tables and hard top awnings to give you some shade. Several pull thru sites. Sites are gravel and dirt so you will likely need to level," advises an RVer who stayed at Sportsman's Beach.
Size constraints: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "We pulled a 36' toy hauler, and we were able to find a pull through spot. However, it was pretty tight, and I wouldn't recommend that large of a trailer if you don't want a few scratches from bushes," cautions a visitor to Samuel Buckland Campground.
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully as not all campgrounds offer dump stations. "This is a county park..there is no sewar at the sights and the dump stations water was turned off," warns a Topaz Lake visitor, suggesting the need for alternative arrangements.
