The best great views campgrounds near Carson City, Nevada

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.

96% (407)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

96% (407)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

96%

(255)

8.4mi from Carson City · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carson City, NV

We sit on 130 acres of primarily pasture over looking Washoe Valley and Washoe Lake. Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca where you’ll experience them up close. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!

2. Water front on Topaz Lake

96%

(91)

34mi from Carson City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Topaz, CA

Learn more about this land:Beautiful lake front property on Topaz Lake , we have 6 rv sites to choose from on 4 acres .First come first serve . Bring your Rv or pitch a tent . Bring your whole family. We have kayaks and paddle boards . Fishing boat available to rent . Life jackets available and a peddle boat too ! Lots of float toys !!

3. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%

(200)

36mi from Carson City · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reno, CA

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 We are looking for a seasonal self contained camper to do campground maintenance and upkeep. trade Only NO PETS SELF CONTAINED and background check Its been a huge water season so 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.

Stories from the community

D

Daniel

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Water front on Topaz Lake

A gem of a find. Thank you. I look forward to coming back!

Laura

2 weeks ago

13 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Water front on Topaz Lake

We visited in the off season on our way east. It was really beautiful and we slept well in our camper van despite the proximity to the road. Also the bathroom was such a treat (hot water, private shower) after multiple campgrounds. Also really appreciated the clear signage, the picnic tables, garbage, etc. Very thoughtful design.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Exactly what you need for a quick pit stop and rest! The farm was really nice and tucked away. Felt private and safe.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

15 ft Class B

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Amazing property and very friendly host! Would Highly recommend

R

Robert

3 weeks ago

21 ft Class B

2 nights at Water front on Topaz Lake

Best campsite I ever seen. It's so beautiful and peaceful there!

S

Sean

November 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Hard to beat the price and convenience of this site. Plus it's quiet and in a pretty area to boot. It was easy to find and communicate with our very helpful and friendly host.

D

Daniel

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

The camp host came out to meet each arriving party and guide them to their spot (as most of us rolled in after dark). Later she started a bonfire, and for the next couple of hours folks congregated in small groups talking about where they had been and where they were going. Very enjoyable social experience. Cooking facilities were excellent. They are outdoor, but it does not often rain here. Wind was moderate the night I was there. Two bathrooms (flush toilets and running water) quite close to the campsites.

K

Kathleen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

The tent site was perfect; it was very peaceful, with wonderful views in all directions. Wendy was super and offered to get us extra wood for the fire since the wood on site was a bit moist from recent rain. We would definitely camp here again!

Lynn

November 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Water front on Topaz Lake

The entire camp was amazing…very clean facilities, easy access to roomy campsites, and huge docks to sit out over the lake…trees for shade and full hookups! Loved our visit and the sunset colors over the lake were epic

Kara

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Lovely, quiet place to camp, and of course the alpacas made it even more special. The heater made the tent plenty warm even though it was early November. Close to Carson and Virginia City, so we were able to explore. We would definitely return!

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Frankenstein

November 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

A safe and fun place to rest and recovery during an adventure. I enjoyed all the alpaca friends I made during my stay, all very curious to see what I was cooking up. There is a lovely little shop for you to browse while staying there and you are able to feed the alpacas! The community who help tend the land and care for the animals are lovely people and gave me quite the education on alpacas.

J

Jonathan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Water front on Topaz Lake

I loved tent camping at Topaz Lake. Make sure to pack a bunch of warm blankets if you go in early November. Pam was a great host and super helpful and responsive. The location is close to groceries, Reno, and a bunch of national parks. Highly recommend visiting and checking this place out. Best part of the trip was not just the amazing view of the lake but also how clean the facilities are. Really good spot.

L

Laurel

November 2025

1 night at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

This is an incredible property with an incredible host! I camped at Willow springs, and really enjoyed the lushness of the willows, the privacy, and watching the Beavers, Owls and Hawks. I also stayed a week in Tiny Blue which was a little slice of heaven!! I loved all the books, the view and it was super comfy! The tiny kitchen and bathroom nearby were absolutely perfect and I didn't need to leave the property for anything for many days. Wendy is so enthusiastic and hands on, you can really tell she loves what she does and has built a beautiful sanctuary for artists, writers, creative types and those that are in need of some sanctuary. I Especially encourage women who are Solo camping to spend some time at this beautiful location! I can't wait to come back next year!🌀

L

Laurel

November 2025

Tent

6 nights at Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

This is the most incredible property, with the most incredible host! A peaceful sanctuary that allows one to get back in alignment with their own self in a lovely natural setting. I HIGHLY recommend for women on a healing journey, artists and writers needing to clear out blocks, or spiritual seekers in need of some sanctuary! This place has all the "magicalness" of Sedona & Mt. Shasta! A yearly visit is now on my calendar in order to give myself a much needed retreat! Camping at Willow woods was beautiful and private and I loved watching the Beavers, Owls, and Hawks. I also stayed at Tiny Blue, which was so comfortable, had beautiful views, and lots of cool outdoor sitting areas. The tiny kitchen had everything I needed and gave me the luxury of staying for an entire week! You can tell that Wendy loves being a host and believes in the sanctity of what she has created here, and it's reflected in every detail of the property itself and within her personal enthusiasm! This truly is a "choose your own adventure" experience!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars!

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Amanda

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Wonderful place to camp! Beautiful location and so fun to have the alpacas roaming around.

T

Trevor

October 2025

22 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Amazing. Easy to find. The campground is fantastic, highlighted by the alpaca's. I brought my 9yr old daughter, and she was in love. They are incredibly friendly, sweet animals. It was an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommend.

W

William

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

Nice place to stop. Peaceful and quiet. They even provided some firewood.

Aiyana

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Not every day am I surrounded by alpacas! This is a unique experience for animal lovers, giving you the chance to observe or interact with alpacas, goats, sheep, chickens, and farm dogs. My 10 year old was both enthralled and overwhelmed by the eager alpacas. Camping is pleasant, with a lovely setting, adequate porta-potty, some space between rigs, easy pull through, clear directions, friendly staff. Bring ear plugs if barking livestock guardian dogs will disturb your sleep (I was bothered, my family was not).

A

Andrea

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

I loved staying at Tiny Blue! The solace was much needed and the space is comfortable with incredible views. The beaver pond is very sweet and the resident llama is awesome. Wendy gave very clear directions and is available if anything comes up. There’s even an outdoor kitchen and a fire pit! I will be staying here again!

S

Susan

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Magnificent stay! The alpacas were so chill and loved my dogs. The farm store had great products and the other campers we lovely

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Carson City 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.