Wilson Canyon

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Accessible by a low-clearance road, Wilson Canyon is a BLM campground along the Walker River outside Yerington, Nevada, open year-round with no reported reservation requirement. Sites sit directly next to the water, and reviewers note the river runs fast enough to create some noise buffer from the adjacent road. Trash cans and picnic tables are on-site. The area draws tubers in summer, though the river is better suited to floating than swimming. Nearby, Walker River Resort provides a developed alternative with additional facilities.

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Map & DirectionsWilson Canyon is located in Nevada near Wellington

Public Campground

Directions

Located 20 miles south of Yerington on Highway 208.

Coordinates

38.80762845 N
119.22311967 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Good Coverage
Verified by 14 users
Last on 8/3/26
AT&T
No Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Group
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 3 min from Carson City, NV
1 hr 24 min from Reno, NV
2 hrs 48 min from Sacramento, CA
3 hrs 39 min from Merced, CA

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Wilson Canyon

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Stevie C.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 7, 2026

Roadside easy

Easy place to camp had a low sports car and still no issues, near a main road but minimal noise with a faster running river. Bathroom and trash near depending on where your at. Lots of open sites to choose from.

Month of VisitMay

Kristina B.

Ranger

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2021

Roadside but also riverside

A gravel rest stop with just open BLM land. Trash! Multiple trash cans! Multiple picnic benches. Right next to the water. Good for tubing. Not so much for swimming. Road noise. Smoky air right now so please be careful. No fires.

Month of VisitAugust

Noel S.

Scout

Reviewed Mar. 16, 2020

Dirt Bike and ATVers

Wilson Canyon is so awesome! Room for everyone, while lots of track to cover. In the summer, the swimming hole across the road is so nice!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Wilson Canyon?

Wilson Canyon offers primitive camping on open BLM land with basic amenities. The area features multiple trash cans and picnic benches for day use or overnight stays. While facilities are minimal, the site provides enough space for various camping setups. The campground is primarily a gravel rest stop area adjacent to water, making it a convenient stopover for travelers or a base camp for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the surrounding area.

Do I need a permit to camp at Wilson Canyon?

No permit is typically required to camp at Wilson Canyon as it's on BLM land which generally allows dispersed camping without formal permits. However, always check current BLM regulations before your trip as policies may change. The area functions as an informal camping spot with open access, though standard BLM camping rules apply, including length-of-stay limitations and proper waste disposal.

What outdoor activities can I do near Wilson Canyon camping area?

Wilson Canyon offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Water activities are popular, with a swimming hole across the road for summer cooling off and good tubing opportunities in the adjacent waterway. The area provides ample space for exploration with "lots of track to cover" for hiking and off-road adventures. During warmer months, water recreation becomes the main attraction. Note that campfires may be restricted, especially during fire season, so check current fire regulations before your visit.

Where is Wilson Canyon located in Nevada?

Wilson Canyon is located in Nevada along a roadway near a water source. The canyon sits on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, providing public access for recreation and camping. It's positioned in a scenic area that attracts visitors for its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities. For precise directions, contact the local BLM office as this remote location may require specific navigation guidance.

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