The best desert camping near Sparks

·

East of Reno, Sparks offers a central location to surrounding state parks and lavish lakes. Take a short scenic drive to Lake Tahoe for clear waters, rugged trails, and iconic views—here, Lake Tahoe campers can pitch a tent waterside and then hike or bike along the crest of the Carson Mountain Range which connects to the 170-mile trail wrapping the lake. Between Tahoe and Sparks, Washoe Lake State Park features another pristine waterway in Washoe Valley wrapped with views of multiple mountain ranges. Journey north of Sparks to the picturesque Pyramid Lake, home to unique rock formations and unique Nevada history as well as lakefront camping accommodations for those who want to stay for a few days.

85% (47) 12 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparks

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

1. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
12mi from Sparks · 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
from 
$131
 / night
Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

2. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

96%
(12)
32mi from Sparks · 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
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Haven On The Comstock

3. Haven On The Comstock

90%
(5)
22mi from Sparks · 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
from 
$30
 / night
Washoe Lake State Park

4. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 21mi from Sparks · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Range Rural Raw Desert

5. The Range Rural Raw Desert

38mi from Sparks · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌵 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.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Welsh Grizzly Camp

6. Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%
(6)
46mi from Sparks · 3 sites
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!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$80
 / night
Natural Time Retreat Center...

7. Natural Time Retreat Center...

46mi from Sparks · 1 site
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
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$40
 / night
The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

8. The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

47mi from Sparks · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$22
 / night
Silver City RV Resort

9. Silver City RV Resort

35mi from Sparks · 5 sites
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.

East of Reno, Sparks offers a central location to surrounding state parks and lavish lakes. Take a short scenic drive to Lake Tahoe for clear waters, rugged trails, and iconic views—here, Lake Tahoe campers can pitch a tent waterside and then hike or bike along the crest of the Carson Mountain Range which connects to the 170-mile trail wrapping the lake. Between Tahoe and Sparks, Washoe Lake State Park features another pristine waterway in Washoe Valley wrapped with views of multiple mountain ranges. Journey north of Sparks to the picturesque Pyramid Lake, home to unique rock formations and unique Nevada history as well as lakefront camping accommodations for those who want to stay for a few days.

85% (47) 12 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparks

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

1. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
12mi from Sparks · 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
from 
$131
 / night
Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

2. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

96%
(12)
32mi from Sparks · 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
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Haven On The Comstock

3. Haven On The Comstock

90%
(5)
22mi from Sparks · 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
from 
$30
 / night
Washoe Lake State Park

4. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 21mi from Sparks · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Range Rural Raw Desert

5. The Range Rural Raw Desert

38mi from Sparks · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌵 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.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Welsh Grizzly Camp

6. Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%
(6)
46mi from Sparks · 3 sites
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!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$80
 / night
Natural Time Retreat Center...

7. Natural Time Retreat Center...

46mi from Sparks · 1 site
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
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$40
 / night
The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

8. The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

47mi from Sparks · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$22
 / night
Silver City RV Resort

9. Silver City RV Resort

35mi from Sparks · 5 sites
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.

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The best desert camping near Sparks guide

Where to go

Lake Tahoe

An hour south of Sparks sits Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park. It features crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, boat launches, and renowned skiing hills. Sand Harbor, Memorial Point, Hidden Beach, and Spooner Lake provide convenient on-site camping with picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Choose from frontcountry, backcountry, RV camping, or cabin rentals at other private campgrounds around the lake. Check out Flume Trail above Sand Harbour for a challenging yet stunning point-to-point mountain bike ride. Or hike a portion of the 170-mile Tahoe Rim Trail.

Pyramid Lake

On the Paiute Tribe Reservation, Pyramid Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Nevada with deep blue waters and unique rock formations. Known for fishing, swimming, picnicking, and camping, the lake also offers two on-site campgrounds, Pelican Point and Shot Dog, with restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Primitive campers can also try dry camping by the beach. Pyramid Lake Marina and Beach offers boat rentals, beach access, and a convenience store.

Washoe Lake State Park

Step into the scenic valley of Washoe Lake State Park with surrounding views of the Carson, Virginia, and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and water sports along sandy beaches and shady trees. On-site tent and RV camping are available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with access to restrooms, showers, a dump station, water/utility hookups, and paid wifi. Hikers can then trek along the American Discovery Trail to experience the rugged landscapes of Nevada’s beautiful backcountry.

When to go

Camping near Sparks is a year-round activity with activities in every season. Summers are hot and arid with average temperatures in the 90s, while winters drop below freezing bringing moisture and snow. Summers are perfect for days out on the lake, while winter campers can cross-country ski, snowboard, or ice fish.