The best desert campgrounds near Reno, Nevada

Looking for a camping adventure near Reno, Nevada, with a desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 160 available options, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Paradise Shores Camp (371 reviews), Bridgeport Reservoir Campground (315 reviews), or Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras (27 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And with popular activities like hiking, wind sports, and paddling, you'll never run out of things to do. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

87% (239)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping adventure near Reno, Nevada, with a desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 160 available options, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your preferences. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Paradise Shores Camp (371 reviews), Bridgeport Reservoir Campground (315 reviews), or Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras (27 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And with popular activities like hiking, wind sports, and paddling, you'll never run out of things to do. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

87% (239)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%

(37)

14mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · Reno, NV

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!

2. L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

96%

(255)

21mi from Reno · 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!

3. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

95%

(11)

39mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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

4. Washoe Lake State Park

100%

(1)

49 sites · Washoe Valley, Nevada

Just a stone’s throw from Reno and Carson City, this park sits on a lake at the base of the Tahoe Range.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Haven On The Comstock

90%

(5)

23mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · Silver City, NV

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.

6. The Range Rural Raw Desert

36mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · Doyle, CA

🌵 Welcome to O’Doyle Grade! 🌵 Pitch your tent or park your RV in the raw desert beauty of Doyle—where wide-open skies meet small-town charm. Just 10 minutes from Plumas Forest (home to some of the area’s best-kept bouldering secrets) and only 30 seconds from the friendly Buck Inn Bar, you’ll be perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a quiet rural escape just off the freeway, with endless forest fun and mountain views only moments away. Whether you’re here for climbing, exploring, or simply soaking in the peace of the high desert, O’Doyle Grade is your gateway to it all.

7. Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%

(6)

40mi from Reno · 3 sites · RVs · Portola, CA

Tucked in the pines, you'll easily find our 4 acre camping paradise. We offer RV parking with power and water hookups and access to an outhouse. Our sites offer plenty of shade in the trees, picnic benches, a swing set, large open graveled space with outdoor furniture to sit and relax in, play cornhole or grill. Located less than a mile from Lake Davis, for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, etc. General Store close by, with dump station. Several hiking trails nearby. 5 minute drive to Grizzly Golf Course, 10 minute drive to Portola for Mountain Pizza, Frosty, and more, just 20 minutes to Graeeagle Shops, Breweries, Fine Dining, horseback riding and other activities. This is the perfect place to camp with your family and friends!

8. The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

44mi from Reno · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Doyle, CA

This property lies at the base of the Sierra Mountains, approximately 9 miles north of Doyle, CA on the west side of US Route 395. Access to the ranch road is from US Route 395. Its elevation starts at 3800 feet and rises higher than 5,000 feet. The lower half is rolling high chaparral and the upper half is steep with forest land that was burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire. There are still plenty of live trees left. This ranch lies in Deer Hunting Zone X6b. Lassen National Forest is on the west boundary of this ranch, with a gate that allows access to the national forest. The 395 Ranch boasts incredible views for nearly 75 miles. The ground is primarily decomposed granite so mud never becomes a problem. Wind can be strong when weather systems approach. The campsites are very basic with no toilet facilities (at this time) but water is available for cooking and washing dishes. An outdoor enclosed shower is available as well. At this time (summer) the water is naturally warm from the pipe’s exposure to the sun and hot water from a flash heater will be available in the near future. Tents can be erected almost anywhere on the property, but campfires are strictly prohibited until the rainy/cold season. Water and an electric hookup is available next to the barn for RVs and travel trailers at an additional cost. Sewer service is not available. There is also an older but nice three-bedroom, one bath home that is also available for short term rentals. It is heated during the winter by two wood burning stoves and cooled comfortably during the summer with a swamp cooler. The rent for this house is based on the season, ranging from $169-$229 nightly plus extra fees for pets or more than three people. Visitors of the past have found hiking, looking for artifacts and rocks to be fun activities. It’s also been an amazing place for stargazing and using telescopes. Others simply enjoyed relaxing and enjoying the peace, quiet and views. High quality campfire wood is available for $12.00 a bundle.

9. Natural Time Retreat Center...

46mi from Reno · 1 site · RV · Gardnerville Ranchos, NV

Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains forty 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 Hotsprings and Wally's Hotsprings are both accessible through community (Dart) Transit as well. With the help of my Father Steve, Sandy Gibson built the House of Gibson in 1983/1984. We are on one acre with an orchard, trees, and a pond. My parents (Steve and Sandy) passed in 2021; We are currently busy with restoring the property. Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Drop in and stay for a spell... Highland Regards, Jason G. Gibson Gibson Core Family

10. Silver City RV Resort

33mi from Reno · 5 sites · Minden, NV

Discover the charm of Silver City Resort, a unique RV campground nestled in the picturesque Carson Valley, where the spirit of the Wild West comes alive. This premier destination in Nevada offers an exceptional experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Our campground features 206 spacious full-hookup sites, each designed for your comfort with 35-foot wide pull-throughs. Enjoy the convenience of telephone and cable TV services, along with complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the park. Take a refreshing dip in our covered swimming pool or unwind in the relaxing spa. With a variety of amenities at your fingertips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the stunning natural surroundings, perfect for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Plus, you'll find a selection of nearby restaurants and shops to enhance your stay. Experience the best of Nevada at Silver City Resort, where adventure and relaxation await.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Camper favorites near Reno

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Haven On The Comstock

90%

(5)

23mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · Silver City, NV

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.

The Range Rural Raw Desert

36mi from Reno · 1 site · Tent, RV · Doyle, CA

🌵 Welcome to O’Doyle Grade! 🌵 Pitch your tent or park your RV in the raw desert beauty of Doyle—where wide-open skies meet small-town charm. Just 10 minutes from Plumas Forest (home to some of the area’s best-kept bouldering secrets) and only 30 seconds from the friendly Buck Inn Bar, you’ll be perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a quiet rural escape just off the freeway, with endless forest fun and mountain views only moments away. Whether you’re here for climbing, exploring, or simply soaking in the peace of the high desert, O’Doyle Grade is your gateway to it all.

Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%

(6)

40mi from Reno · 3 sites · RVs · Portola, CA

Tucked in the pines, you'll easily find our 4 acre camping paradise. We offer RV parking with power and water hookups and access to an outhouse. Our sites offer plenty of shade in the trees, picnic benches, a swing set, large open graveled space with outdoor furniture to sit and relax in, play cornhole or grill. Located less than a mile from Lake Davis, for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, etc. General Store close by, with dump station. Several hiking trails nearby. 5 minute drive to Grizzly Golf Course, 10 minute drive to Portola for Mountain Pizza, Frosty, and more, just 20 minutes to Graeeagle Shops, Breweries, Fine Dining, horseback riding and other activities. This is the perfect place to camp with your family and friends!

The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

44mi from Reno · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Doyle, CA

This property lies at the base of the Sierra Mountains, approximately 9 miles north of Doyle, CA on the west side of US Route 395. Access to the ranch road is from US Route 395. Its elevation starts at 3800 feet and rises higher than 5,000 feet. The lower half is rolling high chaparral and the upper half is steep with forest land that was burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire. There are still plenty of live trees left. This ranch lies in Deer Hunting Zone X6b. Lassen National Forest is on the west boundary of this ranch, with a gate that allows access to the national forest. The 395 Ranch boasts incredible views for nearly 75 miles. The ground is primarily decomposed granite so mud never becomes a problem. Wind can be strong when weather systems approach. The campsites are very basic with no toilet facilities (at this time) but water is available for cooking and washing dishes. An outdoor enclosed shower is available as well. At this time (summer) the water is naturally warm from the pipe’s exposure to the sun and hot water from a flash heater will be available in the near future. Tents can be erected almost anywhere on the property, but campfires are strictly prohibited until the rainy/cold season. Water and an electric hookup is available next to the barn for RVs and travel trailers at an additional cost. Sewer service is not available. There is also an older but nice three-bedroom, one bath home that is also available for short term rentals. It is heated during the winter by two wood burning stoves and cooled comfortably during the summer with a swamp cooler. The rent for this house is based on the season, ranging from $169-$229 nightly plus extra fees for pets or more than three people. Visitors of the past have found hiking, looking for artifacts and rocks to be fun activities. It’s also been an amazing place for stargazing and using telescopes. Others simply enjoyed relaxing and enjoying the peace, quiet and views. High quality campfire wood is available for $12.00 a bundle.

Natural Time Retreat Center...

46mi from Reno · 1 site · RV · Gardnerville Ranchos, NV

Gardnerville Ranchos is a desert oasis located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains forty 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 Hotsprings and Wally's Hotsprings are both accessible through community (Dart) Transit as well. With the help of my Father Steve, Sandy Gibson built the House of Gibson in 1983/1984. We are on one acre with an orchard, trees, and a pond. My parents (Steve and Sandy) passed in 2021; We are currently busy with restoring the property. Our neighborhood is safe and quiet. Drop in and stay for a spell... Highland Regards, Jason G. Gibson Gibson Core Family

Silver City RV Resort

33mi from Reno · 5 sites · Minden, NV

Discover the charm of Silver City Resort, a unique RV campground nestled in the picturesque Carson Valley, where the spirit of the Wild West comes alive. This premier destination in Nevada offers an exceptional experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Our campground features 206 spacious full-hookup sites, each designed for your comfort with 35-foot wide pull-throughs. Enjoy the convenience of telephone and cable TV services, along with complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the park. Take a refreshing dip in our covered swimming pool or unwind in the relaxing spa. With a variety of amenities at your fingertips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the stunning natural surroundings, perfect for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Plus, you'll find a selection of nearby restaurants and shops to enhance your stay. Experience the best of Nevada at Silver City Resort, where adventure and relaxation await.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Reno

100%

(1)

Washoe Lake Campground

20mi from Reno · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Washoe Lake State Park

Stories from the community

M

Michael

1 week ago

15 ft Class B

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Amazing property and very friendly host! Would Highly recommend

J

Judi

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

The view from the campsite was great. I was worried about finding the spot after reading some of the reviews, but the host provided excellent directions so we got there no problem.

F

Frankenstein

3 weeks ago

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.

A

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.

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).

E

Erik

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haven On The Comstock

I had a great time at Noel’s! Got to see some wild horses roaming the area while we had lunch one of the days. Weather was perfect land was flat for our rigs!

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

C

Candice

October 2025

Tent

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

It was pretty cool camping with the Alpacas! We loved the views the property offered. We fed the Alpacas and got some cute pictures. We got some cute things in her little store too. Stacy was super accommodating and friendly. Would stay again.

C

Cyn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

We stayed one night at Olde Lyfe Alpacas and absolutely loved it! The ranch is peaceful and full of charm. Stacey was such a kind and welcoming host. You can really feel how much care and love she puts into the animals. ALL the animals (alpacas, llamas, goats, sheep, dogs, chickens) were adorable and fun to watch, and waking up to them made it such a cool experience. It was the perfect quiet stop on our trip, and we’d definitely come back again (and stay longer next time!). Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for a peaceful and unique camping experience.

P

Paige

September 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Great spot to post up for a night and meet of the alpacas and other cute farm critters! Conveniently close to Tahoe, too! Parking directions were a bit confusing but a helpful farm member was quick to assist.

R

Rebekah

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

We had a great time! It was our first time taking our 2.5 year old camping and she LOVED the farm!!

J

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Stacey's Alpaca farm is so precious. She's a hard working woman who cares a lot about her animals. The campsite is beautiful with the surroundings. You get what you get here amenity wise. We don't come for the "glamping" style here. We come for the Alpacas and other animals of course and the land is beautiful. Everyone kept quiet around us both times we stayed there and we had like 5-6 other guests on the property. Stacey's Dog will bark to protect the animals. I seen an Alpaca kick the shit out of a dog who didn't leave it alone so watch out lol We camped in our tent but others camped in their RVs, Airstreamers, and there's one Glamping style hut there too. She has 2 porta potties, and water available to wash your hands. Bring every else, especially if you need more water. We packed out our trash. This place is really meant for you to enjoy the outdoors for cheap, on safe land, and to hang out with cool animals. Definitely will be back for our 3rd time soon. Thanks Stacey and Staff.

Zoe

September 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Hands down one of my very favorite stays. Stacey is a welcoming host and her herd is absolutely the cutest.

T

Trey

September 2025

Tent

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

It was a pleasure to stay on Stacey's land. Not only was she a great host, but the views were gorgeous and hanging out with the alpacas (and llamas and dogs and chickens and goats) was a super cool experience. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for some peace and quiet under the stars. And if you stay, be sure to feed the alpacas (and don't be surprised when the pellets start flying)!

A

Ann

September 2025

20 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

If you like alpacas, this is an easy place to find and stay the night with beautiful views. There’s a super cute little farm store and the alpacas were friendly and liked the attention. There was one other van (quiet couple) and someone staying in the glamping tent but no crazy noises, just some chickens in the morning ;)

A

Amit

September 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

Alpacas are adorable and just as you would expect. Stacey (the owner and host) is very knowledgeable and was great to chat with her. We loved our stay and will be back!

M

Marta

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

We had an amazing time! The starts in the night, feeding the animals, leaving with fresh eggs. All around fantastic experience.

M

Michael

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

Thank You Christina. Though I had an Adventure getting there, it was Well worth it. The View is Spectacular. I should have taken more Pictures. Peaceful and Quiet. And not many People. New to RVing, and Retirement, And gaining experience Driving my Tacoma and 16 ft Trailer, cause getting there Tested my Truck, my Trailer, And Me. It was an Adventure. And really not that bad. Thanks again Christina. And will certainly visit again.

G

Grayson

September 2025

Tent

5 nights at L.Davis Ranch and Olde LYFE Alpacas

I loved staying at the alpaca ranch. I would recommend!