Tent camping near Yerington, Nevada offers primitive sites on high desert terrain ranging from 4,500 to 8,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F during daytime hours while dropping below 60°F overnight, creating wide temperature swings campers must prepare for. Water sources are scarce throughout the region, with sites near creeks or reservoirs commanding premium positions during peak camping season.
What to do
Water recreation at reservoirs: The Developed 7 — Lahontan State Recreation Area provides water-based recreation opportunities approximately 40 miles northeast of Yerington. According to one camper, "It is probably very lively here in the summer and weekends, but during the week in October there was hardly anyone here." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with another visitor noting, "We camped 2021 at beach 7 and it wasn't too bad we were in a tent but the water was low in lake just Carson river running to dam."
Creek fishing access: Wilson Canyon offers creek fishing opportunities with direct water access from primitive tent sites. The river access points provide fishing in deeper pools, with one visitor mentioning it has "Room for everyone, while lots of track to cover." Fishing is best in early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
Hiking nearby trails: For tent campers seeking elevation and exercise, established trails are accessible near most camping areas. At Luther Pass, campers appreciate "Great access to the TRT and close to Lake Tahoe." The site provides convenient access to multiple trail systems with one reviewer noting it has "Several trailheads in the area for longer hikes and day trips."
What campers like
Waterfront tent locations: Riverside tent spots rank among the most sought-after sites. A Wilson Canyon visitor described it as "Right next to the water. Good for tubing. Not so much for swimming." Tent campers particularly appreciate these water-adjacent sites during summer months when daytime temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Night sky viewing: Tent campers praise the stargazing opportunities in this low light-pollution region. Reno View Dispersed offers panoramic views where "an awesome view of the lights of Reno" creates a dramatic backdrop for stargazing. The elevated position provides unobstructed sky viewing, though "the road is a beast" according to reviewers.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report wildlife sightings as a highlight. At Olde LYFE Alpacas on Davis Ranch, campers enjoy a unique experience with "free-range Alpaca farm with tons of other animals to check out during your stay." Another visitor mentioned, "The alpacas were plentiful, the views were good and it made for a good night."
What you should know
Road conditions limit access: Many tent camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Reno View Dispersed, a camper warned "I would not drive it with any vehicle other than SUV/Truck. DO NOT bring up an RV/Trailer. You'll regret it." Another visitor confirmed the challenging access, stating the road is "worth the view" but requires appropriate vehicles.
Goathead thorns hazard: Plant hazards pose risks to tent floors and bare feet at certain sites. At Reno View, a camper cautioned "Would not suggest walking barefoot, tent camping or bringing dogs up here. The bottoms of our shoes looked like a warzone and when we laid down in our tents we were pricked by goatheads."
Extreme wind conditions: Wind poses significant challenges for tent camping in exposed areas. At Desert Creek Campground, campsites are positioned in a "volcanic, willow lined canyon" that can channel winds. Tent stakes often pull out of the sandy soil during sudden gusts, requiring supplemental anchoring with rocks or heavier objects.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible creek play areas: Locations with safe water access provide natural entertainment for children. Wilson Canyon offers accessible creek areas where "the swimming hole across the road" provides cooling opportunities during hot weather. Sites adjacent to creeks allow for supervised water play while maintaining camp proximity.
Animal encounter opportunities: Families seeking educational experiences can camp at Olde LYFE Alpacas, where one visitor reported "I walked along the creek and just relaxed. Very quiet and the backdrop of the mountains was beautiful." Another noted the ranch owner was "very welcoming and friendly" making it suitable for family camping.
Site spacing considerations: Select sites with adequate separation from neighboring campers. At Desert Creek Campground, one camper observed "the spots are cramped and on top of each other" with most sites positioned "right next to the rock, cobbled dirt trail," making it less suitable for families needing space to spread out.
Tips from RVers
Sand hazards at water sites: RVers report challenging ground conditions at water-adjacent sites. At Lahontan State Recreation Area, a visitor warned "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." Tent campers using vehicles to access sites face similar challenges.
Limited hookup availability: Most camping areas near Yerington provide no hookups or amenities for RVs. One Lahontan visitor noted "No hook ups, they do have a dump station and community water faucets. Vault toilets in many locations, no designated camping spaces." RVers commonly use "construction generators to power their rigs" at sites lacking electrical connections.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides better site selection. According to a Lahontan camper, "Midweek and mid September- plenty of sites even in the non primitive campsites. Beautiful view- very quiet; clean bathrooms." These lower-use periods offer more secluded tent camping experiences with reduced competition for premium sites.
