Mountainous camping in Nevada

Explore mountains, lakes, high desert, and hoodoos in this western state.

93% (787 reviews)
  1. Nevada
93% (787 reviews)

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12 top mountainous campgrounds in Nevada

97%
(141)

Schellraiser

92 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Mc Gill, NV
The Schellraiser music fest offers a variety of seasonal camping options at our 80-acre private campground in the cool high desert of Eastern Nevada's Steptoe Valley, near the small town of McGill. Our Lotus Belle-brand bell tents are solar powered and fully furnished, with king, queen and twin beds; organic Avocado-brand mattresses; rugs; loveseats; floor lamps; charging ports and wi-fi service. Car-camping and pitch-your-own-tent sites without power are also available. Our campground features several tiny homes; we've converted the biggest one into our clubhouse that is now open to all guests from Thursday through Sunday nights. The clubhouse has a small kitchen area for cooking simple meals. We're also gearing up to reopen our coffee bar on weekends in late spring 2025; our menu features hot and cold espresso drinks, organic teas and organic chocolate bars. A heated six-unit restroom/shower trailer is on site. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY, TO ENSURE THAT WE MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS: We are an OFF-GRID campground, in a very remote part of rural Eastern Nevada. To reach our campground, you must drive eight-tenths of a mile off the main highway, on a rocky DIRT ROAD that is susceptible to flooding from April to mid-July in wet years. Drivers with Teslas, Audis and low-clearance vehicles are STRONGLY ADVISED to look elsewhere for lodging. PLEASE READ ALL CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS, OUR TRAVEL ADVISORY, OUR FIRE BAN ADVISORY AND CAMPGROUND RULES BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US. ABOUT THE AREA: Schellraiser is just minutes away from the High Schells and Bristlecone wilderness areas, and within an hour's drive of Nevada's wildest high-mountain and high-desert scenery. Subalpine peaks, rugged canyons, wild rock formations, natural hot springs and ghost towns are all around us, and the surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, including Nevada's biggest elk herd. ABOUT US: We're the founders of the annual Schellraiser micro-fest, which brought bands like Ladytron, Mercury Rev, The Raveonettes, Blonde Redhead, Asleep At The Wheel, We Are Scientists, The Joy Formidable, Blitzen Trapper, Old 97's, Houndmouth, Shannon Shaw and BRONCHO to the nearby McGill Pool Park each spring. The fest will return to a new venue (not in McGill) in 2026.
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$18
 / night
98%
(141)

Retro Camper with Mountain Views

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Jean, NV
Welcome to your peaceful, desert getaway. This little Retro Camper is only about 35 minutes from the Strip. The property is home to Joshua trees, desert mountain views, beautiful sunsets, and some of the best star gazing around. The camper comes with a full kitchen, a refrigerator, microwave, and gas stove. Dishes and utensils are provided as well as bedding and towels. The bed is about a full size bed, maybe a bit smaller, cozy for two people to sleep in. The camper comes with two space heaters and extra blankets for the winter, an overhead air conditioning unit for the summer. The shower has cold water only and is an outdoor shower. Check out our "Extras" to reserve firewood and a S'mores Kit to enjoy under the stars! Head across the street to the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and live music. Enjoy the beautiful scenery just outside of one of the biggest travel destinations in the USA! IG: @nvretrocamper
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$76.50
 / night
98%
(367)

Tarantula Ranch

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Beatty, NV
Tarantula Ranch is located in the Mojave Desert surrounded by BLM land and nearby Death Valley National Park. One of the first vineyards in Nevada, we grow 5 varietals of grapes and make wine on-site. We offer guests camping, glamping, and an RV site. Camping and Glamping sites are located next to the vines and include picnic tables, shared bathhouse with toilets and shower, outdoor kitchen (bbq, gas cooktop). We also have a community area "The Wine Hall" with ping-pong, shuffleboard, refrigerator, and microwave. Outside our gates, enjoy biking, hiking, scrambling, and exploring the Amargosa Desert and nearby Skeleton Hills. Nearby attractions include Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (30-minutes) and Death Valley National Park (45-minutes). We have spent a lot of time in the park and are happy to answer questions, make suggestions, or even take you on a tour.
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$35
 / night
92%
(37)

#1 Night Skies, UFOs, & Jets

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Rachel, NV
Wide open desert with history. In the 1800s the area was prospected for lead and silver. It was also used as farmland decades ago, and now is infamous for it's world class night skies and Area 51 air force installation. Although you can see planes taking off towards the Nellis Bombing Range, or see jetfighter training exercises or even test flights, the US Government still hasn't acknowledged the existence of the facility... that you are not allowed to enter. This is also a UFO hotspot and required visiting for those that believe Earth may have visitors. This land means a lot to a lot of different people. For some, it means peace from city life. For others, it is the perfect setting for reflection on your life. Many find it to be the kind of adventurous or challenging tent camping they've sought. You'd be foolish not to count yourself among those the photographers, amateur astronomers, or souls that enjoy the continental United States' "darkest skies" with the least amount of light pollution in this part of the world.  Some simply like camping and getting free air shows. Finally, if you enjoy UFO stories or stories of our men in black, there is an itinerary for you here that nowhere else can provide. This area is on many "independent researchers" must-visit list. If all that weren't enough, there is an indescribable feeling of bedding down for the night in this valley. Maybe 100% of people don't feel it, but so many past visitors who have spent the night near the Extraterrestrial Highway (the real name of Nevada State Route 395 that this land is accessible from) can vouch for it. 
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$16
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100%
(1)

Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Silver Springs, NV
Lahontan Shores Ranch is a 20-acre high desert retreat overlooking Lake Lahontan in Silver Springs, NV. The site offers panoramic views across open deserts and distant mountains. From this elevated perch, a private hiking trail winds down to the lake, where you can swim, kayak, fish, or just relax by the water. Nested within public land to the west and across the lake, this site offers a true sense of seclusion, tranquility, and connection to nature. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water, then relax under a blanket of stars as the desert sky turns pitch black. In the morning, start your day outdoors, savoring your coffee as you take in the uninterrupted views and dramatic desert terrain. Ideal for tents, rooftop campers, and self-contained RVs, Lahontan Shores Ranch is a peaceful high desert hideaway for those seeking raw, rugged Nevada beauty. Please note: The property is located approximately 2 miles off Highway 50 and is accessed via a dirt road. A 4x4 vehicle is required for safe access, especially in wet conditions. There are no street lights, so we strongly recommend arriving during daylight hours. A site map will be provided upon booking
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$18
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94%
(9)

sierra Tahoe moutain bike adventure

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Reno, NV
Welcome to sierra tahoe moutain bike adventure, your perfect mountain escape nestled right next to 11000 Mt. Rose Hwy! Our scenic campsite offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With complimentary bike rentals for 1 hour - 1 day and a discounted rates there after. Shower,restroom,and bike repairs during business hours Experience the Best of Mountain Living **Breathtaking Scenery:** Wake up to panoramic views of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh alpine air. Our campsite provides a serene backdrop with stunning vistas that change with every season, offering a unique and beautiful experience year-round. **Outdoor Activities Galore:** Situated just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, you can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the crystal-clear waters. For those who crave a bit more excitement, Mt. Rose is right at your doorstep, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the rugged terrain. **Mountain Biking Trails:** Take advantage of our complimentary short-term bike rentals and explore the exhilarating mountain biking trails nearby. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find trails that cater to all skill levels, ensuring a thrilling ride through the wilderness. **Modern Amenities:** Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available for all campers. After a day of adventure, share your photos and experiences with friends and family or simply unwind with your favorite streaming service. **Nearby Attractions:** - **Mt. Rose Summit Trail:** A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit for breathtaking views. - **Tahoe Rim Trail:** Perfect for both hiking and biking, offering miles of scenic trails. -** Sky tavern bike park right next door with so amazing repeatable trails - **Diamond Peak Ski Resort:** Just a short drive away for winter sports enthusiasts. Join us in tahoe for an unforgettable camping experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Book your spot today and start planning your mountain getaway!
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$45
 / night
92%
(12)

Sage Desert Dreams

3 sites · Lodging4 acres · Mount Charleston, NV
Get out of the city and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature when you stay in this unique place. Local Deer and fox roaming the area if you are lucky to see them. Wake up to a gorgeous mountain/valley view , BBQ during the day and enjoy smore's with the firepit at night. Miles of hiking right off the property and in the surrounding areas. Lots of local dirt bike, side by side riders in the area as well, and horse back riding! If your a plant enthusiast like me, you will have fun scoping out all the natural medicinal herbs naturally growing in the area, i.e. sage, mullein, brigham tea, and many more! Enjoy the entire valley with the view and privacy up on the hillside. Some neighbors across the street in a container home and tent rentals about a half mile away. This is an outdoor off grid Glamping experience! Bring items you would normally bring camping (DRY CAMPING), but you have the luxury of having shelter, bed, sofa bed, refrigerator/ freezer, propane grill, propane stove, well water provided, and ability to have camp fire as the dome is located on private land not Forest land. Wifi is provided complimentary and as a luxury. Wifi is supported by Starlink and works about 85% of the time due to its remote location and weather conditions. RENTAL AMENITIES BBQ charcoal grill Bed linen Carbon monoxide detector Ceiling fans Coffee machine Cooking utensils Fire extinguisher First aid kit Internet wireless (85%) Mountain Parking Parking on street Pets allowed Private porch Refrigerator Security system Shower Smoke detector Smoking allowed outside Suitable for events Disclaimer: Please do not follow any maps/ or GPS coordinates given by the rental/booking site. THERE IS NO ADDRESS. Please only use instructions provided to you by the host so that you do not get lost. 4-wheel drive highly recommended as it is off-road/ off-grid driving... You will be required to drive a vehicle with at least a 5 inch clearance above the ground so that you may be able to drive over the rocks without damaging your vehicle. The off road portion (the last 4.5 miles) ride is very bumpy, off road- means no pavement/ no gravel. You are off-roading in the mountains friends! Please keep in mind that there is no refund or cancellation policy if you decide to opt out of using a 4WD or vehicle that does not have the 5inch clearance.
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$159.20
 / night

Other options in Nevada

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping in Nevada guide

Overview

When most people think of Nevada, one of two things come to mind: either Las Vegas or desert landscapes. It's an understandable assessment; after all, most of the state's population is concentrated in the Las Vegas area, and much of the state is, indeed, rugged desert land. In fact, it’s the driest state in the union. That said, Nevada offers plenty more than casinos and barren expanses and is a fantastic place if you want to get out in nature without crowds. Here you’ll find massive mountain peaks, ancient rock formations, Wild West towns, oddball roadside attractions, and plenty of opportunities to commune with nature in near silence.

Where to go

Northern Nevada

Nevada's northernmost stretch is characterized by Wild West nostalgia and quiet communities, many heavily influenced by the descendants of the Basque immigrants who settled the region in the 19th century. The western part is home to both the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge and the Black Rock Desert, where Burning Man is held every year. Continue further east and you'll find yourself in the remote Ruby Mountains, an amazing place to hike, camp, and birdwatch.

North-Central Nevada

This quiet swathe of Nevada has some of the best outdoor attractions in the state, from the Lehman Caves system in Great Basin National Park to the massive sand dunes appropriately known as Sand Mountain. If you really want to get a feel for the region, take a long drive down desolate Highway 50, which follows the old Pony Express route. Drive far enough west and you'll end up in Lake Tahoe, offering year-round recreation and easy access to the largest alpine lake on the continent. 

Central Nevada

Vast central Nevada offers a mix of quirky roadside attractions and rocky scenery. Cathedral Gorge State Park is particularly fantastic, with otherworldly caves, towering hoodoos, and more than its fair share of jackrabbits. Fans of the supernatural won't want to miss a trip along the so-called Extraterrestrial Highway, which passes Area 51 along with all sorts of UFO-themed oddities.

Southern Nevada

Although Las Vegas is southern Nevada's undisputed star, there's plenty to see and do in the region beyond Sin City, from immersing yourself in Wild West history at the Pioneer Saloon in Jean to learning about the history of hydroelectric energy at the massive Hoover Dam. If you want to take a hike, head to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, where you'll find over 30 miles of red sandstone-flanked trails.

Top parks in Nevada

Top regions in and near Nevada