This article about free camping Las Vegas is brought to you by Banner & Oak. Banner & Oak’s snapback hats will keep you shaded at these desert campgrounds.
The thought of Las Vegas automatically brings to mind neon lights and casinos, but there is so much more to experience, including free camping near the city.
These campsites offer pockets of calm and solitude away from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas strip with many more recreational activities to enjoy with friends and family. Explore these 7 free camping sites near Las Vegas where you can camp in your tent or RV without spending a dime on campground fees.
Free Camping at 7 Las Vegas Campgrounds
1. Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping (Spring Mountain)
Image from The Dyrt camper Matt W.
Lovell Canyon Dispersed Camping (Spring Mountain) is one of the best known areas for dispersed camping in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, locally known as Mount Charleston, west of Las Vegas. In addition to being quiet and secluded, this area offers much wildlife and scenic beauty during the day.
Over 60 miles of hiking trails are available at any time of the year. The Lee Canyon Ski Resort is available all year round with skiing available in the winter and scenic chairlifts in the spring and summer.
“Beautiful trees and hiking! Camping was quiet and safe.” – Laurie
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Mack’s Canyon Dispersed
Image From The Dyrt Camper Steven B.
Mack’s Canyon Dispersed is also in the Spring Mountains Recreation Area with many hiking trails and scenery to enjoy for the whole family. Some of the sites in Mack’s Canyon are on the side of the mountain so you can enjoy seeing the breathtaking sunrise and sunset. This one of many dispersed camping sites in the area where you can disconnect from technology and enjoy being in the peaceful spot of nature.
“Great spot for a nice quick get away from the Vegas heat!” – Brennan L.
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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3. Jean/Roach Dry Lake
Image from The Dyrt camper Shaylnn S.
Jean/Roach Dry Lake is an ideal place for those seeking a unique adventure outside of the casinos and sights of Las Vegas. There are many dispersed camping sites near the dry lake bed. The dry lake is also known for high-end fashion shoots, but for the off-roading vehicle enthusiast, the dry lake is a special kind of runway.
“This is honestly a very unique camping experience.” – Cat N.
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Desert Wildlife Refuge
Image from The Dyrt camper Bradley R.
Desert Wildlife Refuge includes 6 mountain ranges and 7 distinct habitat zones, so it is another excellent camping area near Las Vegas. Backcountry camping and car camping are permitted throughout, but camping must be at least 100 yards away from springs and water development.
As the largest wildlife refuge in the U.S. outside of Alaska, the refuge provides excellent hiking opportunities. It is also widely known as one of the best bird watching sites in Nevada, with over 320 bird species.
“It’s beautiful at night with a view of the strip and the stars.” – Bradley R.
Price: Free
Number of sites: N/A
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: No
Pets allowed: Yes
5. Sloan Canyon-Dispersed Camping
Image from The Dyrt camper Eric F.
Sloan Canyon-Dispersed Camping is permitted throughout the area although camping is restricted near the Sloan Canyon Petroglyph Site. In this site you can view over 1,700 pieces of Native American art dating from ancient times. The North McCullough Wilderness offers the fun of horseback riding and hiking. Sloan Canyon is a peaceful setting for those who want to camp in solitude and see one of the state’s best cultural sites.
“In addition to many hiking trails this place has a pretty extensive area you can hike around to find some great views and camping.” – Crystal C.
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: No
6. Dispersed Camping North of Logandale
Image from The Dyrt co-founder Sarah S.
Dispersed Camping North of Logandale is available around the main loop as well as at a few primitive campsites with picnic tables. The Longdale Trails contain hundreds of trails for those who want to go off-roading with their vehicles. If you decide to go hiking, there is an area where you can view Native American petroglyphs.
“Plenty of places to drive right in and enjoy the quiet.” – Brennan T.
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. Muddy Mountains Wilderness
Image from The Dyrt camper Brittany N.
Muddy Mountains is unlike any other place in the state. Backpacking and camping are permissible almost anywhere within the area, provided you stay away from trailheads and water sources and leave the area in better condition than you found it.
Featuring spectacular geological formations among a vibrant Mojave Desert and views of Lake Mead, this landscape offers hiking, climbing, horseback riding, wildlife watching, stargazing, and much more.
“Beautiful spot in the desert with no one around.” – Brittany N.
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: N/A
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
Experience Nevada’s natural beauty away from the Vegas strip with these free campgrounds near Las Vegas. To find out what else Nevada has to offer, check out The Dyrt’s complete list of campgrounds in Nevada.
