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Camping near Carson City

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The capital city of Nevada, Carson City offers plenty of history and culture, a charming downtown, and is a good base for exploring nearby attractions like Reno, Virginia City, and Lake Tahoe. Situated in Eagle Valley at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Carson City is also a year-round gateway to outdoor adventures spanning hiking, mountain biking, railbiking, off-roading, fishing, golf, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Several RV parks in town offer full hookups and amenities, while plenty of scenic campgrounds can be found nearby, particularly for those who enjoy camping in the high desert, near a lake, or in the forest.

93% (448) 4,296 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Carson City

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

1. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
17mi from Carson City · 1 site · Tent, RV
We love to pass our free time here in the sunshine and juniper drafts overlooking the Sierras. Some days we watch the electric storms across the valley, other afternoons we picnic and nap while listening to the birds and wind.  We love the peace and silence, which feels remarkably remote and only 20 minutes from Reno.  Learn more about this land: We would love to share our 12 junipered acres with nature enthusiasts like ourselves. Bring your tent or camper and spend afternoons watching beautiful sunsets and wildlife from our land.  Spectacular expansive views across the valley to the Sierras and Mount Rose.  Conveniently 15 minutes from South Reno (40 minutes from North Lake Tahoe), the silence and absolute privacy here are restorative and replenishing.  We do not have trash collection services available and we ask all guest to practice a “leave no trace” philosophy.  **Because of extreme fire risk in our area we ask guests to refrain from having campfires for now. As this area is home to beautiful wildlife (and a few other distant homeowners) please visit with an intent to respect the quiet and privacy that makes this area so pleasurable for us all.  Thanks for visiting and enjoy your time!  
Pets
Picnic table
Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

2. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(236)
36mi from Carson City · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Please note: We have two 'Overnighter' sites these are instant book for weary travelers and not meant as full on camping sites. Site 1 and site 2 or Antelope please refrain from booking unless you are traveling through - All other camp sites require a minimum of 24 hours notice this allows for getting the sites ready - so if you want to camp here please note this requirement If you are traveling w a bumper pull of any type you need to book Big Rig ( soon to be named Art Camp) this is our only pull through camp site all others only tiny teardrops, cassettes, tents, vans, cars, or cab overs. Bobcat is great for tents, cars, vans, small trucks, no bumper pulls Camping here is low activity experience as in there is hiking up in the National Forest or just hanging out in your camp site, or bring your camera, notebook and binoculars, or road bike. When you come to camp here you are on a farm in transition. Girlfarm has been a local food go to for restaurants, farm family members, and regenerative agriculture interests. Today, the farm is looking forward to a new course in agri tourism as we begin planning walking gardens, art installations in the landscape, and interactive classes. If you would like fresh veggies contact Prema Farm one day BEFORE arrival - Please come visit in April May and June it is some of the most green and lush times in the high desert. It can also bring snow, winds, and rain. Be prepared- look at the forecast and contact me directly if you have concerns SKEETERS are around we also recommend tents have a rain fly and ground cloth. Welcome It was important to choose a partner like Hipcamp to invite like minded individuals who respect both the natural environment and the idea of less is more. At any time you may encounter farming activities, building out of tiny houses, gardens in the process of creation, snakes, bugs, ticks, and wild animals. As we move toward offering the land as a place to both find solitude or chosen participation our Flyte and Sparrow experience will hopefully be a place you will want to return to as your own tradition.
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Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

3. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

97%
(19)
37mi from Carson City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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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Picnic table
Spooner Lake

4. Spooner Lake

100%
(2)
Point of interest 8.8mi from Carson City · 12 sites
Spooner Lake: A Scenic Haven for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
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Washoe Lake State Park

5. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 7.8mi from Carson City · 49 sites
Just a stone’s throw from Reno and Carson City, this park sits on a lake at the base of the Tahoe Range.
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Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

6. Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf

94%
(45)
39mi from Carson City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.
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Potable water
Pequena Hut

7. Pequena Hut

98%
(26)
49mi from Carson City · 1 site
Tiny home nestled in Tahoe National forest . This little gem is on an acre of land surrounded by national forest land. Close enough to Lake Tahoe but away from the chaos. Host lives on property with 4 year old German shepherd. I typically leave for the weekend, however i will probably be there if booking during the week (Ill be gone most of the day though) . There are 4 neighbors but their properties are not visible, feels very private. Please be respectful of the neighbors property, they all have cameras :) The front of the property where the cabin is located there will be some highway noise being close to highway 20 , especially during a busy weekend. Tiny house: •Full sized futon downstairs, no bedding provided please bring your own if planning on using the futon. • King sized mattress in loft. Bedding provided but please try to bring your own!! • board games , cards, chess, fire pit, projector for movies if requested!!! • Hot plate, toaster oven, mini fridge, kitchen appliances, coffee . Black stone grill outside. Fire pit • Separate bathroom, outdoor sink and shower. *sink inside tiny home does not work* Additional guests are welcome to pitch a tent on the land if needed. ***Lake Spaulding is closed the rest of 2026 to the public!! ***No driving access however...the lake is a 1/4 mile hike down from the property. (bring good walking shoes) They are working on the lake so just be respectful and keep to yourself, go wherever they aren't working. Rivers/lakes/swimming holes: •emerald pools, cliff jumping , waterfalls . 10 min drive •south yuba river 5-15 min •bowman lake road connects to several lakes, blue lake is my favorite but its a very rocky road beware •lake valley reservoir , 10 min •donner lake, rent kayaks, paddle boards or a boat. 25 min •eagle lakes rd swimming hole. 5 min •Truckee: fun shops, restaurants/ bars, 30 min . Truckee Thursdays (every Thursday) until August 6 , live music & local vendors!!! •Nevada city/ Grass Valley - cute historic town, lots of nice boutiques / thrift shops Lastly, before booking keep in mind that wildlife is part of life here. Please be aware of your surroundings, respect the animals, and remember we're the guests in their home. @lil_pequena_huts
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Haven On The Comstock

8. Haven On The Comstock

94%
(8)
9.7mi from Carson City · 1 site · Tent, RV
This gem of a spot is in the heart of the Comstock and perfectly placed at less than 5 miles from Virginia City and 45 minutes to Lake Tahoe.
Pets
Picnic table
Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

9. Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

15mi from Carson City · 1 site
Welcome to the mountains. Come breathe the cool mountain air. Whether you're looking for a place to go skiing in the winter or mountain biking and hiking in the summer, our house on Tramway is close to it all. Cozy and in the midst of the Sierra-Nevada mountains with all the beauty and serenity included. Lake Tahoe is a world renown location for anyone seeking adventure, a fun family vacation, or a romantic getaway. Forget the monotony of your daily routine and come enjoy the mountains. The space **Tramway Sierra Summit** HOA Statement: ● This rental is located in a residential neighborhood. Loud parties and disruptive behavior are not tolerated. This neighborhood is monitored by a 24/7 call service. ● Quiet hours are 9 pm - 8 am. ● Two (2) cars maximum allowed* Renters are required to properly display a host-provided parking permit on the driver’s side dashboard of their vehicle. Failure to display the parking permit may result in a citation and fine of $500 to the owner of the vehicle. ● Fireworks, wood fire pits, and charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited. ● During inclement winter weather either 4WD and snow tires, or 2WD and chains are required to access this Unit. All guests must move all vehicles within 24 hours of a snow storm. ● All dogs must be on a leash at all times and owners must pick up feces immediately and dispose of them in an appropriate trash container or dumpster. About the property: 2 bedroom +Loft, 2 full bathrooms. Max # of permitted overnight occupants: 8 (This listing is advertised for 6, however, two additional occupants would require the use of a pullout couch). Please be advised, per Douglas County, gatherings and events that exceed the maximum occupancy of the vacation home rental are prohibited. Max # of permitted vehicles: 2 Street parking is not allowed at rentals in Tahoe.
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Dayton State Park

10. Dayton State Park

State park 11mi from Carson City · 10 sites
In the historic town of Dayton, this Nevada park is known for its huge cottonwood trees and Carson River access.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

11. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

92%
(70)
National forest 82mi from Carson City · 868 sites
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
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Campfires
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

12. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%
(127)
National forest 19mi from Carson City · 933 sites
Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.
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Campfires
Sugar Pine Point State Park

13. Sugar Pine Point State Park

95%
(21)
State park 21mi from Carson City · 123 sites
A dramatic peak backdrop oversees crystal waters, dense forests, and babbling creek beds here.
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Natural Time Retreat Center...

14. Natural Time Retreat Center...

18mi from Carson City · 1 site
RE: Kinship Natural Time (13:28+1) Retreat Center for Wellness June 3rd 2026 NOTICE: Say there, friends, recently we received an alleged VACATION HOME CODE VIOLATION from DOUGLAS COUNTY DINOSAURS AND THE DEMON KINGS OF COMMERCE dba DC MUNICIPLE GOVERNMENT. We are temporarily suspending any further stay until the issue is resolved. *However, we are still offering services, outreach education, special events, retreats, and more through our Facebook pages. Reach out, send a friend request, and search Four Winds Foundation, the Planet Art Network, New Nevada Assembly, and the Foundation for the Law of Time (World 13 Moon Calendar Change Peace Movement), as it "takes a burner, to know a Burner!" Have a Great Summer... >>------------->> Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, twenty-five minutes from Lake Tahoe. Our property is biking distance from the East Fork Carson River. The Ranchos is a small retirement community within walking distance of our local bowling alley where you can take (free) transit to Lake Tahoe, Carson City, and Reno. Carons Hot Springs and Wally's Hot Springs are both accessible via community (Dart) Transit as well. Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Highland Regards, Jason G. Gibson Gibson Core Family
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
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Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

15. Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

100%
(3)
20mi from Carson City · 1 site
Nestled in the scenic Carson Valley just outside Lake Tahoe, Pinenut Creek Ranch & Resort is a one-of-a-kind, 17-acre off-grid haven. This Old West–themed retreat blends rustic charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique glamping experience in plush tipis, authentic wagons, and cozy miner tents—set to be added in the spring of 2026. More than just a getaway, our ranch is dedicated to strengthening relationships and building community. We emphasize life skills for teens and provide hands-on education in animal husbandry and permaculture. Guests can enjoy farm-to-fork organic cuisine sourced directly from our land while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Sierra Nevadas. We warmly invite like-minded, faith-driven individuals and families to join us—whether for a retreat, a hands-on workshop at our permaculture school, or simply to relax and reconnect in a wholesome, supportive environment.
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Honey Hill Tahoe Farm

16. Honey Hill Tahoe Farm

100%
(1)
21mi from Carson City · 1 site
We embraced a new adventure a few years ago by purchasing 22 acres of raw land in the beautiful Tahoe National Forest. Starting from acquiring our first tractor to building roads and trails, we have nurtured this land into a thriving farm featuring a bee apiary, along with dogs, barn cats, and chickens. Our forever home, nestled up the hillside, reflects our commitment to this lifestyle. To share our passion and offer a unique experience, we have also renovated a vintage Airstream trailer as a cozy guest retreat. Whatever your adventure, we are here to provide an authentic, relaxed, and memorable experience in this stunning natural setting.
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Lakefront Vacation Home Lake Tahoe

17. Lakefront Vacation Home Lake Tahoe

22mi from Carson City · 1 site
This two-story cabin has been in our family for over 50 years. It's located in a private community next to one of the largest resorts and marinas in South Lake Tahoe. Right next door is Camp Richardson Resort and Marina. The cabin features a rustic design with five bedrooms—two downstairs and three upstairs—and three bathrooms, with two downstairs and one upstairs. The spacious open-concept living room and kitchen provide plenty of room to gather. Most guests spend their time on the large lakeside deck, which overlooks the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe and offers easy access to the water. There's no shortage of things to do in Tahoe during every season. We're located just three minutes from a popular local sledding hill, eight minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort, 10 minutes from the state line, and 25–30 minutes from Tahoe City, where families can enjoy whitewater rafting during the summer. Within walking distance, you'll find all kinds of fun, from outdoor recreation to theater performances and art shows. The famous Valhalla Estate hosts beautiful weddings, and you can explore the area's rich history at the three historic estates to the west, including museum exhibits highlighting Lake Tahoe's Native American heritage. This family-owned cabin has welcomed guests for generations, and we hope you'll feel like part of the family and return to beautiful South Lake Tahoe again and again.
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Wifi
Village Camp Truckee

18. Village Camp Truckee

89%
(114)
26mi from Carson City · 114 sites · RVs, Lodging
Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.
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Full hookups
Ludlow Hut

19. Ludlow Hut

26mi from Carson City · 2 sites
Set near Lost Corner Mountain on Lake Tahoe’s west shore, Ludlow Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry shelter that rewards capable travelers with a true hut-in-the-woods experience and a real sense of solitude. You can drive to Ludlow Hut in summer. In winter, there is no car access—expect a challenging ~5.2-mile approach on skis or snowshoes, with approximately 1,100 ft of elevation gain from the Rubicon–McKinney trailhead area. The traditional winter route follows the summer road along McKinney Creek past Miller Lake toward Richardson Lakes. Set back from the lake and blended into the snow and trees, the hut can be difficult to spot in winter. Once you arrive, you’ll have a simple, communal base for exploring the surrounding terrain—whether you’re heading out for winter touring and snow travel or summer hiking in the high country. This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be frequent, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns. Inside the hut you’ll find: • Upstairs sleeping loft accommodating up to 15 people. • Main room with a wood-burning stove, tables, and a kitchen area. • A two-story outhouse is approximately 100 ft southeast of the hut. By booking Ludlow Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
Toilets
Cooking equipment
Bradley Hut

20. Bradley Hut

28mi from Carson City · 2 sites
Bradley Hut is a classic Sierra Club backcountry hut in the Tahoe region, reached via an approximately 4.7-mile hike or ski approach. It’s a favorite among ski tourers planning multi-day adventures, with backcountry terrain in all directions from the hut. The hut sits near Silver Peak in the Pole Creek area (north of Olympic Valley/Palisades Tahoe). The approach is a steady climb, with roughly 1,600 ft of elevation gain from the Pole Creek trailhead area. This is serious mountain terrain. Please use extra caution: surrounding slopes are steep, avalanche hazard can be significant, and conditions can become dangerous quickly when weather turns. Inside the hut: • Upstairs loft accommodating up to 15 people • Main room with wood-burning stove, tables, and kitchen area • Two small side rooms used for firewood and limited maintenance supplies • A two-story outhouse is approximately 40 ft north of the hut. By booking Bradley Hut, you’re helping support the Sierra Club’s ongoing stewardship of these historic huts so they can continue welcoming visitors for generations to come.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Carson City camping guide

Where to go

Carson City and Vicinity

Just north of Carson City in Washoe Valley, Washoe Lake State Park offers outdoor activities like water sports, hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with wildlife that can include a herd of wild horses. Year-round camping options can be found around the lake at Washoe Lake Campground and at Davis Creek Campground. Or head west from Carson City and find three primitive campgrounds and two backcountry cabins in the Spooner Backcountry at Spooner Summit.

Lake Tahoe

Under 20 miles west of Carson City, Lake Tahoe is the country’s largest alpine lake, complete with 72 miles of shoreline and plenty of beaches, trails, and charming towns along its shore. Camping options are plentiful, and include lakeside campgrounds like Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side and both private and public RV and tent camping options on the California side, including in South Lake Tahoe.

Highway 50

Highway 50 may be the Loneliest Road in America but there are plenty of attractions east of Carson City worth exploring, including mining history and wildlife at Dayton State Park and frontier history at Fort Churchill State Park, along with year-round campgrounds at both parks. Further east, Lahontan State Recreation Area offers fishing, boating, water skiing, wildlife viewing, and both a developed campground and primitive beach and high desert camping.

Humboldt-Toiyabe and Eldorado National Forests

The Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest stretches north and south of Carson City and offers seven developed campgrounds and three wilderness areas for backcountry camping. Further southwest, the Eldorado National Forest offers additional developed and dispersed camping options, and rugged terrain for outdoor recreation.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time to visit Carson City, with many visitors also visiting nearby Lake Tahoe. Summer temperatures can soar, making water activities particularly pleasant. Numerous events and festivals are also held over the summer. Spring offers good weather for outdoor activities. Visit in October for fall colors and the Nevada Day Celebration and over the winter to hit the ski slopes around Tahoe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carson City is a year-round gateway to outdoor adventures spanning hiking, mountain biking, railbiking, off-roading, fishing, golf, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Numerous events and festivals are also held over the summer. Summer temperatures can soar, making water activities particularly pleasant. You can also explore different options for camping near Carson City on Hipcamp.

The Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers seven developed campgrounds and three wilderness areas for backcountry camping. Further southwest, the Eldorado National Forest offers additional developed and dispersed camping options, and rugged terrain for outdoor recreation. Under 20 miles west of Carson City, Lake Tahoe offers plentiful camping options, including lakeside campgrounds like Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side and both private and public RV and tent camping options on the California side. You can also explore different options for camping near Carson City on Hipcamp.

Visit Carson City over the winter to hit the ski slopes around Tahoe. The capital city of Nevada, Carson City offers plenty of history and culture, a charming downtown, and is a good base for exploring nearby attractions like Reno, Virginia City, and Lake Tahoe. Situated in Eagle Valley at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Carson City is also a year-round gateway to outdoor adventures spanning hiking, mountain biking, railbiking, off-roading, fishing, golf, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Several RV parks in town offer full hookups and amenities, while plenty of scenic campgrounds can be found nearby. You can also explore different options for camping near Carson City on Hipcamp.

Under 20 miles west of Carson City, Lake Tahoe offers plentiful camping options, including lakeside campgrounds like Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side and both private and public RV and tent camping options on the California side. You can also explore different options for camping near Carson City on Hipcamp.

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

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