Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe

The best camping in Northern Nevada

·

Encompassed by the wide-spanning Great Basin, northern Nevada’s desert terrain contains rambling mountains, wide-open spaces, and protected wilderness parks like South Fork State Recreation Area—all in one region. Nearby RV parks, campgrounds, and cabin rentals offer various jumping-off points for the region’s unique experiences, such as Winnemucca Sand Dunes, old western towns, and Pyramid Lake. Truckee River also brings campers on an aquatic tour of northern Nevada’s untouched wilderness just a few miles from the city of Reno.

73% (45) 56 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern Nevada

Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

1. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

97%
(19)
Silver Springs, NV · 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
Picnic table
Havens Ranch

2. Havens Ranch

83%
(104)
Winnemucca, NV · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Havens Ranch is a 154 acres in the Humboldt river valley just 10 minutes outside of Winnemucca, NV. We have a small outdoor wedding venue, and only rent our spaces when we are not hosting an event. You are welcome to utilize the grounds and facilities, which include a beautifully landscaped lawn, historic buildings and modern plumed bathrooms. We also provide access to fresh well water and use of our large fire pits! **Please note that our bathrooms are not insulated and so we winterize the plumbing the in the colder months and will instead be providing a porta-john. There will still be potable running water available at the spigot. ** The river is a short walk away, and our longhorn cattle will most likely be grazing in the adjacent field. We have incredible sunsets and a variety of wildlife living on the property. This is a great space to get away from the city for a weekend, or camp for a night on your way through town. We have both a guest suite and several camping spaces available. It's a large property and we love to share it! If you are looking for outdoor activities, we are just minutes away from the Winnemucca Dunes OHV area (also great for hiking!), Water Canyon rec site, the Bloody Shins mountain biking trail system, and about an hour away from the Paradise Valley rock climbing area. We are 10 minutes from Winnemucca, about half way between Reno and Elko.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Roughin It At Rabbit Ears

3. Roughin It At Rabbit Ears

100%
(49)
Spring Creek, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
Rabbit Ears is located in Pleasant Valley at the base of the Ruby Mountains. Our property is about 2 miles from the turnoff to Lamoille Canyon and features amazing views of the Ruby range. The lot is entirely fenced so feel free to bring your well behaved 4 legged friends, just note that the neighbors have sheep so escape happy dogs may need some supervision. The site has water, electric, and sewer hookups if needed.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

4. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

92%
(70)
National forest in California · 868 sites
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cave Lake State Park

5. Cave Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Nevada · 4 sites
With a 32-acre lake surrounded by mountains and trees, this Nevada park offers a scenic getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moonshine Meadows

6. Moonshine Meadows

Jarbidge, NV · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Moonshine Meadows, a quiet off-grid retreat tucked into a beautiful canyon near Jarbidge, Nevada. Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature in a peaceful meadow setting surrounded by rugged mountains, open skies, and the sounds of the nearby creek. Guests can enjoy dark night skies, stargazing, wildlife viewing, and easy access to trailheads and some of the most scenic backcountry in northeastern Nevada. The structure camping is a rustic glamping experience designed for those seeking simplicity, relaxation, and adventure. The site includes a furnished canvas tent with a comfortable queen bed, outdoor seating, a fire pit, and access to shared camp amenities. Basic lighting and charging are available, but this is not a hotel--It's a chance to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. There are 10+ tent sites available throughout the meadow. Bring your sleeping bag, a flashlight and favorite camp meals to cook in the camp kitchen. Explore the public lands and relax by the fire or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the canyon cliffs. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a basecamp for outdoor adventures, or a place to unplug, Moonshine Meadows offers a unique nature experience unlike anywhere else. Guests should be prepared for a remote, off-grid setting with limited services and variable road conditions depending on the season. Come experience the peace, stars, and wide-open spaces of Moonshine Meadows! Note: This camp is a bring your own sleeping bag operation. Standard bedding is not provided, and mountain temperatures drop drastically at night.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rockin' N Ranch Buena Vista Valley

7. Rockin' N Ranch Buena Vista Valley

98%
(185)
Unionville, NV · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We offer the safest and Best dry camping in Nevada, message me with any questions or directions help.. Come see the Milky Way! Moon permitting. Book your memories now!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
2 Acres w/1000's of Acres of Forest

8. 2 Acres w/1000's of Acres of Forest

Verdi, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Quiet location on a shared 2-acre ranch. Entrance to thousands of acres of national forest land is less than a mile away. Close to natural hot springs, hiking, biking, dirt biking trails, and fire roads. Multiple dining and entertainment options are nearby, including restaurants, a distillery, a local bar with pool tables, a casino, parks, thrift stores, and historic sites—all within 8 minutes or less. Great property for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. • 40 minutes to Lake Tahoe • 18 minutes to downtown Reno, NV • 4 minutes to the Truckee River • 27 minutes to Truckee, CA
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Model Farm

9. Model Farm

84%
(40)
Reno, NV · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:We are a high desert setting with 78 acres here. There is a huge lake with trees all around it. Kayaking and canoeing is allowed on the lake but it's not swimmable, sadly. There is nearby access to hiking and off road trails. In addition, we are located about 15 minutes from Pyramid Lake, a huge desert lake where there is boating, swimming, and picniciking. We are also an event center for weddings, and other events! come join us on our beautiful propety!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Great Basin National Park

10. Great Basin National Park

97%
(68)
National park in Nevada · 108 sites
Remote high desert park is home to peaks, caves, ancient bristlecones, and dark night skies
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Spooner Lake

11. Spooner Lake

100%
(2)
Point of interest in Nevada · 12 sites
Spooner Lake: A Scenic Haven for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Rye Patch State Recreation Area

12. Rye Patch State Recreation Area

100%
(1)
State park in Nevada · 47 sites
A Nevada park offering reservoir access, water play, and camping.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washoe Lake State Park

13. Washoe Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Nevada · 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
Star Gaze Ranch

14. Star Gaze Ranch

100%
(30)
Winnemucca, NV · 1 site
Billy The Kid Tent – Glamp Like an Outlaw on 15 Private Acres Saddle up for a one-of-a-kind desert getaway! The Billy The Kid Tent is a fully outfitted canvas retreat set on ten fenced acres of wide-open high desert—no other campers, just you, the mountains, and the silence of the wild. The tent is spacious enough to stand, stretch, and truly unwind. Inside, you'll find a real queen-size bed with fresh linens, extra pillows, a cowhide blanket for chilly nights, propane heater, solar-powered lighting for cozy evenings. There's even a private indoor loo, so no wandering out into the night. Need to stay connected? We’ve got a solar power system so you can charge your phone, laptop, or camera right from the tent. Outside, relax at your private picnic table, pizza oven and grill onsite or fire up the included firewood at the fire pit (season permitting), or warm up inside with the wood-burning stove with a cooking top. And when night falls, enjoy some of the clearest stargazing skies around. 🪵 Fire-friendly (when permitted) 🐾 Pets welcome 🐴 Horse boarding available – just give us a heads-up And that view? It'll set you back a few paces—it still does that to us. Free parking is available just steps from the tent. When you arrive, give a friendly honk at the front gate and we’ll come greet you with a smile. Come experience the spirit of the Old West—right here where it actually happened. Did we tell ya Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid actually robbed a bank here in town :)
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Ruby View Retreat

15. Ruby View Retreat

100%
(6)
Osino, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come enjoy one of the best views in all of Northern Nevada! This 10-acre retreat offers peace and relaxation just 5 minutes off I-80 on a maintained gravel road. Strong cell service is available from the highway all the way to your campsite. It’s also only a 25-minute drive to downtown Elko, making it easy to enjoy the city or pick up additional supplies during your stay. There’s plenty of room for large fifth wheels and travel trailers. Amenities include: • Fire pit with seasonal firewood available • Wood-fired cooking stove • On-site trash disposal
Pets
Campfires
Haven On The Comstock

16. Haven On The Comstock

94%
(8)
Silver City, NV · 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
Ethereal Ranch

17. Ethereal Ranch

96%
(26)
Osino, NV · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
22 miles from the city of Elko, remote enough to enjoy the peace and quiet, while just a short car ride to the town of Ryndon that can provide you with all of your essentials. Hundreds of acres of land to keep you busy with incredible outdoor activities. Set up your camp and enjoy your stay! Stunning views of the ruby mountain range in addition to being home to the state's only population of mountain goats, the Rubies are also home to Nevada's largest mule deer herd. All funds go to our animal sanctuary under the Ethereal Ranch Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, ranch operations and development. Animals are free-ranged and may include but not limited to livestock, domestic and exotic rescued animals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Merlin Springs Secluded Camping

18. Merlin Springs Secluded Camping

99%
(36)
Gerlach, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
Merlin Springs is adjacent to the Black Rock Desert Conservation Area, just 10 miles outside Gerlach, Nevada. The Property is located on 400 acres in a valley, surrounded by spectacular views of the Buffalo, Selenite, and Granite Peak mountain ranges. The Black Rock Desert and Gerlach are home to the Burning Man Festival, which attracts approximately 70,000 visitors annually. The area also boasts a variety of outdoor recreation, including Hiking, Mountain Biking, Land Sailing, Rocket Launching, Hot Springs, Photography, Stargazing, and more. Guided hikes and bike rides by certified interpretive guides available to help you explore and navigate the greater Smoke Creek Black Rock area. Inquire for details.
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
High Desert Dry Camping

19. High Desert Dry Camping

86%
(7)
Crescent Valley, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
I have found a place that speaks to me through its silence and stillness. May your stay here be a porthole into a new perspective on what mother nature and the awe inspiring universe have to offer.Learn more about this land: Experience high desert camping in one of the least populated counties in the United States. Stunning panoramic views of Cresent Valley and the surrounding mountains. Over a thousand acres of adjacent BLM land to explore. Enjoy some of the darkest night skys in the country. Easy to get to. Almost all of it highway driving. The last 3.5 miles are along very well maintained dirt road.
Pets
Bunker Hill Hideaway Motel-RV Park

20. Bunker Hill Hideaway Motel-RV Park

Austin, NV · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in the heart of Kingston, Bunker Hill Hideaway is your place to stay and play in Central Nevada. Kingston, Nevada, is a four-season getaway for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax and recharge. Bring your hiking boots, off-road vehicles, fishing poles, mountain bikes, hunting gear, or horses. Plentiful wildlife can be seen, such as antelope, bighorn sheep, a rogue emu, or the town mule deer that may be sleeping nearby. Whether you are looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, you will enjoy all that Kingston, Nevada, has to offer. During your stay, you will have modern amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. Accommodations include: Motel: A one-bedroom fully furnished suite, including two cozy fold-out couches in the living area for additional guests. All kitchen amenities are included to meet your cooking needs, including an induction cooktop and an outdoor grill. RV Park: Two full-hookup, pull-through RV sites with 30- and 50-amp service. Dry camping and tent spots are also available. Please let us know what type of camping accommodation you are looking for. Have the toys but no RV? We can assist in finding a rental that can be parked at Bunker Hill Hideaway and ready for your arrival. Our favorite bar, Lucky Spur Saloon, a fishing pond, and a community park are all within walking distance. Unlimited hiking awaits just steps outside the front door.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Northern Nevada camping guide

Where to go

South Fork State Recreation Area

Nestled in the foothills of the Ruby Mountains, South Fork State Recreation Area offers 2,000 acres of protected wilderness for camping, hiking, and fishing at the South Fork of Humboldt River. The recreation area is popular with campers during warm seasons but does offer winter activities such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing, as well. Look for on-site campsites near the riverside with basic amenities like electric hookups for an added treat.

Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Nevada, teems with trout, perch, and cui-ui lakesucker fish. It’s a world-class fishing destination, but also well known for its boating, swimming, and bird watching—especially for great blue herons, Caspian terns, and snowy egrets. Campers flock to the lake and then stay at amenity-filled RV parks and campsites with electric and water hookups, on-site supply shops, dog parks, and nearby restaurants.

Winnemucca Sand Dunes

Experience the sprawling, other-worldly landscapes of the Winnemucca Sand Dunes in Southern Humboldt County. As the largest sand dune field in the state, the Winnemucca Dunes form a dazzling landscape that rise up to 4,400-feet high. Dune campers can ride all-terrain vehicles, hike, and take photographs. Private campsites are conveniently located near the freeway, though campers should mind boundaries for neighboring private property in the area.

Truckee River & Lake Tahoe

Set out for adventure on Truckee River with easy-access points near Reno that provide campers with quick access to fishing hotspots. Less than an hour from Lake Tahoe, campers will find numerous cabin rentals, RV parks, and campgrounds situated near the river’s most popular fishing spots. Rafting on Truckee River is another favorite activity among campers. Sign up for two- to eight-person self-guided rafting tours or head out in kayaks and canoes for a fun-filled day on the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

South Fork State Recreation Area in Northern Nevada offers camping, hiking, and fishing at the South Fork of Humboldt River. During warm seasons, campers can enjoy these activities, and in winter, there are options for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. On-site campsites near the riverside with basic amenities like electric hookups are available for campers.

Visitors to the Winnemucca Sand Dunes in Northern Nevada can ride all-terrain vehicles, hike, and take photographs. Private campsites are conveniently located near the freeway, though campers should mind boundaries for neighboring private property in the area.

Pyramid Lake in Northern Nevada is well known for fishing, boating, swimming, and bird watching. It is a world-class fishing destination teeming with trout, perch, and cui-ui lakesucker fish. Amenities at RV parks and campsites include electric and water hookups, on-site supply shops, dog parks, and nearby restaurants.

Campers on Truckee River near Reno in Northern Nevada can enjoy fishing, rafting, and easy-access points for quick access to fishing hotspots. Less than an hour from Lake Tahoe, campers will find numerous cabin rentals, RV parks, and campgrounds situated near the river’s most popular fishing spots. Campers can also explore different options for camping near Northern Nevada on Hipcamp.

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

Popular Northern Nevada trips

Top national parks and forests in and near Northern Nevada

Top state and regional parks in and near Northern Nevada