The best mountainous camping near Virginia City

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Take a trip back in time in Virginia City—site of the largest silver strike in U.S. history. This small town is full of sunny afternoons, desert sunsets, and old west attractions, including the celebrated Chollar Mine. After exploring underground history, campers can settle down at campsites and RV parks with full restrooms, dog parks, nearby restaurants, and supply shops. Then, swim, fish, hike, and camp at Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park or Dayton State Park, where Nevada wildlife roams the terrain and soars the sky. Luxury cabins near Lake Tahoe are available for camping with convenience. They come fully furnished and are loaded with amenities like modern kitchens and private boat launches.

90% (449)

Top-rated campgrounds

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

2. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(200)
29mi from Virginia 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

6. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

95%
(11)
28mi from Virginia City · 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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

10. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
6.3mi from Virginia City · 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!  
Pets
from 
$131
 / night
Natural Time Retreat Center...

11. Natural Time Retreat Center...

29mi from Virginia City · 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

12. Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

100%
(2)
48mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Calpine, CA
Pond fishing, private land, family-friendly, great views, and great adventures. Welcome to Lost Arrow 89 Retreat, a one-of-a-kind camping experience on 26.5 acres of open ranch land with stunning views of the Sierra Valley and surrounding mountains. This is a peaceful, private escape where guests can spread out, unplug, and enjoy a true connection to the land. Each campsite offers a spacious cleared area with two leveled tent pads, a picnic table, and more. Water access is available nearby via hose. The setup is ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for extra room and privacy with access to the Sierra Mountains and all its attractions. Our property features an 800,000 gallon private pond that has been carefully managed over the years with multiple generations of healthy largemouth bass. Guests have exclusive access to this catch-and-release fishing spot, offering a rare opportunity to fish a rare species in the Sierras, and a beautiful setting. Rod rentals are available if needed. Lost Arrow 89 is also a working ranch. As you enter, you’ll pass a dirtbike track, a large white ranch house, and a barn full of horses. Two friendly donkeys, goats, and more than 40 free-range chickens roam the property. The ranch also includes large horse pastures and arenas. This is the kind of place where you wake up to fresh mountain air, with a view of the valley, spend the day fishing or exploring, and end the evening by the fire under a sky full of the brightest stars.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night
Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

15. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%
(57)
28mi from Virginia City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Verdi, CA
Find privacy, seclusion and solitude in nature at Alpine Valley Camp /|\. Encompassed by Tahoe & Toiyabe National Forests, this Alpine Valley rolls across 10,000 acres at approximately 5,500 feet with towering mountainous peaks on three of its sides rising above 8,000 feet. A meadow with creeks and wildlife lines the Valley floor. Depending on location, distant peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range rise into view. The private and secluded Camp sits at the edge of the meadow on 40 acres. It offers multiple sites for vista viewing, camping and fire pits set along two seasonal creeks. Available for one camping party's exclusive use, basic camping comforts include picnic tables, metal and stone fire pits, and an out house with a view. Follow the lower creek out from the Camp into the meadow and Valley floor to find a damned swimming hole. Off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, hiking, fishing, water sports, golf, skeet, and the like are available at or near the Camp, as is LTE cellphone and data services. Alpine Valley Campsite is a short distance to Reno, Truckee, Stampede and Boca Reservoirs, and Lake Tahoe. It is located approx. 4.5 miles from Stampede Reservoir, 5.4 miles from the Truckee River in Verdi, and 17 miles from the Boca Reservoir and Truckee River in Truckee. Host highly recommends 4x4/AWD vehicle OR at least 7" of ground clearance, driving slow on dirt and rocky roads (approximately a 25-minute drive from entrance of Toiabye National Forest-Verdi, CA entrance at 5-10 mph), and experience with pack-in, pack-out camping. Detailed welcome letter with local destinations, GPS coordinates, Valley map and links provided upon booking. Nightly rate is for up to two campers; any camping party is limited to eight (8) campers and each additional camper is assessed a guest fee of $44/nt If you'd like to collect wood from the property, simply purchase a bundle of wood when completing your booking. This is a pack-in, pack-out camp. Cabela's located in Verdi for all camping needs. Eats, drinks, market, gas, et cetera, are conveniently located in Verdi, too. Alpine Valley Camp /|\ appreciates the outdoor enthusiasts who have come for one or more adventures. (Note price include 12.5% Sierra County Transient Occupancy Tax)
Pets
Toilets
from 
$180
 / night

Take a trip back in time in Virginia City—site of the largest silver strike in U.S. history. This small town is full of sunny afternoons, desert sunsets, and old west attractions, including the celebrated Chollar Mine. After exploring underground history, campers can settle down at campsites and RV parks with full restrooms, dog parks, nearby restaurants, and supply shops. Then, swim, fish, hike, and camp at Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park or Dayton State Park, where Nevada wildlife roams the terrain and soars the sky. Luxury cabins near Lake Tahoe are available for camping with convenience. They come fully furnished and are loaded with amenities like modern kitchens and private boat launches.

90% (449)

Top-rated campgrounds

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

2. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(200)
29mi from Virginia 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

6. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

95%
(11)
28mi from Virginia City · 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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

10. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
6.3mi from Virginia City · 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!  
Pets
from 
$131
 / night
Natural Time Retreat Center...

11. Natural Time Retreat Center...

29mi from Virginia City · 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

12. Lost Arrow Ranch Retreat

100%
(2)
48mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Calpine, CA
Pond fishing, private land, family-friendly, great views, and great adventures. Welcome to Lost Arrow 89 Retreat, a one-of-a-kind camping experience on 26.5 acres of open ranch land with stunning views of the Sierra Valley and surrounding mountains. This is a peaceful, private escape where guests can spread out, unplug, and enjoy a true connection to the land. Each campsite offers a spacious cleared area with two leveled tent pads, a picnic table, and more. Water access is available nearby via hose. The setup is ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for extra room and privacy with access to the Sierra Mountains and all its attractions. Our property features an 800,000 gallon private pond that has been carefully managed over the years with multiple generations of healthy largemouth bass. Guests have exclusive access to this catch-and-release fishing spot, offering a rare opportunity to fish a rare species in the Sierras, and a beautiful setting. Rod rentals are available if needed. Lost Arrow 89 is also a working ranch. As you enter, you’ll pass a dirtbike track, a large white ranch house, and a barn full of horses. Two friendly donkeys, goats, and more than 40 free-range chickens roam the property. The ranch also includes large horse pastures and arenas. This is the kind of place where you wake up to fresh mountain air, with a view of the valley, spend the day fishing or exploring, and end the evening by the fire under a sky full of the brightest stars.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night
Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

15. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%
(57)
28mi from Virginia City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Verdi, CA
Find privacy, seclusion and solitude in nature at Alpine Valley Camp /|\. Encompassed by Tahoe & Toiyabe National Forests, this Alpine Valley rolls across 10,000 acres at approximately 5,500 feet with towering mountainous peaks on three of its sides rising above 8,000 feet. A meadow with creeks and wildlife lines the Valley floor. Depending on location, distant peaks in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range rise into view. The private and secluded Camp sits at the edge of the meadow on 40 acres. It offers multiple sites for vista viewing, camping and fire pits set along two seasonal creeks. Available for one camping party's exclusive use, basic camping comforts include picnic tables, metal and stone fire pits, and an out house with a view. Follow the lower creek out from the Camp into the meadow and Valley floor to find a damned swimming hole. Off-road vehicles, dirt bikes, hiking, fishing, water sports, golf, skeet, and the like are available at or near the Camp, as is LTE cellphone and data services. Alpine Valley Campsite is a short distance to Reno, Truckee, Stampede and Boca Reservoirs, and Lake Tahoe. It is located approx. 4.5 miles from Stampede Reservoir, 5.4 miles from the Truckee River in Verdi, and 17 miles from the Boca Reservoir and Truckee River in Truckee. Host highly recommends 4x4/AWD vehicle OR at least 7" of ground clearance, driving slow on dirt and rocky roads (approximately a 25-minute drive from entrance of Toiabye National Forest-Verdi, CA entrance at 5-10 mph), and experience with pack-in, pack-out camping. Detailed welcome letter with local destinations, GPS coordinates, Valley map and links provided upon booking. Nightly rate is for up to two campers; any camping party is limited to eight (8) campers and each additional camper is assessed a guest fee of $44/nt If you'd like to collect wood from the property, simply purchase a bundle of wood when completing your booking. This is a pack-in, pack-out camp. Cabela's located in Verdi for all camping needs. Eats, drinks, market, gas, et cetera, are conveniently located in Verdi, too. Alpine Valley Camp /|\ appreciates the outdoor enthusiasts who have come for one or more adventures. (Note price include 12.5% Sierra County Transient Occupancy Tax)
Pets
Toilets
from 
$180
 / night

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

The best mountainous camping near Virginia City guide

Where to go

Chollar Mine

Chollar Mine represents one of the richest silver strikes in U.S. history. A leading mine on the Comstock, it was first worked back in 1859 and produced more than $17 million in silver and gold throughout its active history. Today, campers can take a day trip to the mine and enjoy tours with special exhibits that show how early miners operated the site. Nearby RV parks and private campgrounds give campers of all kinds a convenient spot to rest as many include restrooms and showers.

Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park

Less than an hour’s drive from Virginia City, Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park is popular for its beaches, lake activities, and winter sports. Enjoy boating, hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking in warmer months. During winter, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and snowboarding remain favorite pastimes. The best places for fishing in the park are Zephyr Cove or nearby Rubicon Point, and hikers will want to check out Flume Trail for its great views. The park and surrounding area feature campsites and RV parks with basic amenities like electricity and water hookups. Private winter chalet rentals are also available for cozy fireside retreats after a day of skiing.

Dayton State Park

With its views of Carson River, Dayton State Park is a well-known destination for hiking and fishing. The park is just a 20-minute drive from Virginia City. Its 10 on-site campgrounds are available for RVs or tent camping and many of the campsites offer dump stations, restrooms and BBQs. Campers may see resident wildlife, such as foxes and porcupines while exploring the park for its geocaches—a fun and interactive way for campers to engage with the beautiful terrain.

When to go

Temperatures in Virginia City range from from the mid-nineties in summer to winter lows under 10°F. Spring and fall tend to be more temperate for visitors who prefer to avoid the extreme weather. Popular RV parks and campgrounds remain open to campers year-round for sunny summertime lakeside retreats or snowy skiing escapades.