Discover the best mountainous campgrounds near Reno, Nevada

Set in the high desert at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the northwest corner of Nevada, Reno offers campers the best of both worlds, from city amenities spanning casinos to culture, to easy access to outdoor adventures year-round, whether it’s whitewater rafting the Truckee River in downtown Reno, mountain biking park or desert trails, getting out on the clear waters of Lake Tahoe, or hitting the slopes of the many nearby ski resorts in the winter. Diverse camping options abound, from urban RV parks with full hookups and amenities to quiet campsites in the high desert, near lakes and mountains, and within national forests.

Where to go

Washoe Valley and High Desert

South of Reno, Washoe Lake State Park offers two shallow lakes, along with wetlands, dunes, fantastic mountain views, and open range where wild horses sometimes roam. Enjoy year-round camping at Washoe Lake Campground on the southern shores of Washoe Lake or Davis Creek Regional Park along the northern shore. Further east, plenty of history and year-round campgrounds can be found at Dayton State Park and Fort Churchill State Park.

Lake Tahoe

Reno is just 40 miles northeast of Lake Tahoe, which offers 72 miles of shoreline and dozens of beaches, parks, and scenic campgrounds. In Nevada, enjoy RV or tent camping near the lake at Nevada Beach or Zephyr Cove. On the California side, spend the night overlooking Emerald Bay State Park at Eagle Point or camp by the beach at Tahoe State Recreation Area or at D.L. Bliss State Park. For easy access to the lake amenities, stay at historic Camp Richardson or the Campground by the Lake on the south shore.

Humboldt-Toiyabe and other National Forests

Several national forests can be found near Reno, including the surrounding Humboldt-Toiyabe, Tahoe to the west, and Plumas to the northwest, offering plenty of wilderness, rugged terrain, trails, lakes, rivers, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Choose from a wide variety of developed campgrounds, or head into the wilderness for backcountry camping, including the Mt. Rose Wilderness nearby.

When to go

Summer is a popular time for visitors to Reno, who come for the many lively events and festivals, or flock to the shores of Lake Tahoe. Winter is another popular time for visitors to the area ski resorts. In the winter, tent and RV camping options are limited to RV parks and campgrounds in the high desert, though cabins are plentiful around Lake Tahoe and the mountains. Visit in the spring and fall for pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds.

Know before you go

Although there’s public transportation in Reno, you’ll need a vehicle to explore further afield. In the winter, chains are a good idea if you head into the mountains.
Campfire permits are required outside of developed campgrounds. Fire restrictions may limit or prohibit fires entirely.
Bears are common in the area. Secure food and other attractants, especially when camping.
Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 or over in California and 18 and over in Nevada.