Camping near Winnemucca
Forests, canyons, reservoirs, and ghost towns welcome campers to Winnemucca.
- Winnemucca
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Camping near Winnemucca guide
Overview
Said to be the “Friendliest Town in Nevada,” Winnemucca boasts hospitality and charm at the crossroads of I-80 and U.S. highways 93 and 40. Nearby Water Canyon and Rye Patch State recreation areas offer cool water on hot summer days with unique landscapes and hiking trails. For a budget-friendly stay, Water Canyon offers free camping courtesy of the local Bureau of Land Management. Head north of Winnemucca to Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest for snow-covered peaks and backcountry camping. Or find private RV parks outside of the forest with wifi and full hookups. Whether tenting, renting, or pulling in the rig, wander into wonder when camping near Winnemucca.
Where to go
Water Canyon Recreation Area
Sitting almost 2,000 feet above Winnemucca, Water Canyon Recreation Area is a secluded space featuring rugged ridges, aspen trees, and a lower canyon stream. Considered one of northern Nevada’s most loved landscapes, the canyon is cared for by the BLM-Humboldt River field office and offers free camping options with fire rings, grills, shelters, and information kiosks. Campers have access to maintained trails for hiking, biking, and limited ATV use, as well as picnic areas throughout the area.
Rye Patch State Recreation Area
Nestled between Lovelock and Winnemucca, Rye Patch State Recreation Area calls campers to its 22-mile reservoir for boating, paddling, fishing, and swimming. History and horror buffs can also explore nearby ghost towns and wander through the remains of old mines and mill houses. Stay the night and choose between two on-site campgrounds featuring over 40 tent and RV camping sites—some with hookups—with fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms with flush toilets and showers. Or settle into a primitive waterfront campsite near the reservoir itself.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Mountains, forests, deserts, and streams await all those who camp and hike through Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Stretched across 6.3 million acres in Nevada and California, the forest is home to over 50 campgrounds and endless hiking, biking, fishing, OHV riding, and winter sport activities. With such a wide range of camping options, Humboldt-Toiyabe offers everything from dispersed tent campsites, cabin rentals, and frontcountry and backcountry campgrounds with various amenities such as vault toilets, potable water, and spots for camping trailers. Some campgrounds in the forest are free, while others require a small fee. Check for reservations as well, as some campgrounds close during winter months.
When to go
The arid desert climate of the Winnemucca area is great for year-round camping. Summers are hot with clear skies and strong sun with temperatures that are consistently in the 90s. As winter hits, temperatures drop below freezing overnight and reach average highs in the low 40s throughout the day. Winter sports are popular in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, but be sure to check road conditions before venturing off the grid.