Dispersed camping near Yerington, Nevada primarily occurs on public lands within a 30-mile radius at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 5,700 feet. The high desert climate features hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Most sites lack tree cover, exposing campers to significant wind conditions common throughout the basin and range topography.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge Dispersed Camping, visitors can observe diverse bird species and mammals. "Tons of birds, waterfowl, deer, coyotes, beavers. Amazing sky with mountains in the background." The refuge has paddling options depending on the season and several interpretive trails.
Historical exploration: Near Scout Camp at Fort Churchill, campers can examine ruins and walk portions of the Pony Express route. "Site had a pre-made fire pit. There's a few spots here to choose from, although if you're looking for privacy they are somewhat close together. Overall pretty good for a nights stay, especially if you're in to history!"
Water recreation: Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping offers direct lake access for swimming and paddling on Walker Lake. "What a beautiful spot! Bugs were bad but totally worth it with that sunrise and sunset!" The shoreline camping allows for immediate water access during warmer months.
What campers like
Sunrise/sunset viewing: The exposed terrain at Walker Lake creates unobstructed views of the sky. "Slept with windows and doors open amazing sounds from the water. Any light bring bugs so use as little light as possible once it is dark." The lack of light pollution makes for excellent stargazing.
Solitude and space: Many sites allow for significant distance between camping units. "There were 3 others here when we came. Lots of ATVs here." Most dispersed camping locations maintain significant spacing between sites, especially on weekdays.
Accessibility: Despite being remote, many sites can be reached without specialized vehicles. "Easy in and out" notes one camper about Twenty Mile Beach. The main camping areas have relatively maintained access roads, though conditions vary seasonally.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Reno View Dispersed features particularly challenging access. "The road is a beast. I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck. DO NOT bring up an RV/Trailer. you'll regret it." Even sites with better roads may have seasonal washouts.
Wind exposure: Nearly all sites lack natural windbreaks. "If you are camping in anything other than a tent this spot is probably fine. But if you camp with a tent this is a last resort. It's not the prettiest spot and the wind will keep you up all night."
Insects can be problematic: Depending on season and proximity to water, bugs may be abundant. "Bugs were bad but totally worth it with that sunrise and sunset!" Mosquitoes are common near water sources while flying insects are attracted to camp lights after dark.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans apply across most sites, particularly during summer. During restriction periods, only propane stoves and lanterns are permitted for cooking.
Tips for camping with families
Choose riverside sites: The cottonwood trees at Dispersed Camping near Fort Churchill provide rare shade in the region. "Since COVID has closed all state and national parks to camping, we were happy to find this BLM land for an overnight. There are no services and the ground is a little bumpy/sandy but we were able to get around just fine in our camper van."
Pack extra water: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites near Yerington. Plan for 1-2 gallons per person per day plus additional water for washing and pets.
Watch for wildlife: "We had some coyotes track around our van over night so make sure you keep everything inside!" Wildlife encounters are common, requiring proper food storage and waste management.
Tips from RVers
Site selection critical: For larger rigs, scout locations first or research thoroughly. "We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded."
Arrival timing matters: Weekday arrivals significantly increase options. "We had our choice of several places to set up. It is very quiet here, not hearing any road noise."
Surface conditions: Many sites feature soft sand that can trap heavier vehicles. "The east entrance road to the vaulted toilet and maybe two spots is a hard packed sand & semi-gravel/rock road. The rest of the roads leading down toward Lake Walker is loose gravel and sand in which I recommend having a four wheel drive vehicle. My class C got stuck and had to be wenched out."
