The best camping in Northern Nevada

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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.

67% (44) 45 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern Nevada

Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

1. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

97%
(18)
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
Roughin It At Rabbit Ears

2. Roughin It At Rabbit Ears

100%
(43)
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
Ethereal Ranch

3. Ethereal Ranch

96%
(25)
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.
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Great Basin National Park

4. Great Basin National Park

97%
(62)
National park in Nevada · 108 sites
Remote high desert park is home to peaks, caves, ancient bristlecones, and dark night skies
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Campfires
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

5. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

92%
(69)
National forest in California · 868 sites
Explore the largest national forest in the lower 48 with trails, fishing spots and hot springs.
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Campfires
Bunker Hill Hideaway Motel-RV Park

6. 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
Haven On The Comstock

7. Haven On The Comstock

93%
(7)
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
Havens Ranch

8. 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.
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Campfires
Ruby View Retreat

9. Ruby View Retreat

100%
(1)
Elko, NV · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come get one of the best views in all of northern Nevada! 10 acres of relaxation just 5 minutes off I-80 on a serviced gravel road! Strong cell service available all the way from the highway and into your camping spot. Also, it's only a 25 minute drive into downtown Elko so whether you are looking to enjoy some time in the city or hitting the stores for more supplies, it's only a short trip away. Plenty of room for large fifth wheels or travel trailers! Amenities include: Fire pit w/ wood available (seasonally) Wood fired cooking stove On-site trash
Pets
Campfires
Cave Lake State Park

10. 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
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.
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Campfires
High Desert Boondocking Golconda NV

14. High Desert Boondocking Golconda NV

Golconda, NV · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Private high-desert escape with wide-open skies, zero light pollution, and total solitude. 40.9419° N latitude and -117.4116° W longitude Enjoy true off-grid camping on this private high-desert property just outside Golconda, Nevada, at 15550 Morgan Drive. This wide-open land offers quiet nights, expansive views, and excellent stargazing—perfect for campers looking to unplug and spread out. This is a primitive, dispersed camping experience. There is no power, no water, and no hookups on-site. Guests must arrive fully self-contained and pack out everything they bring in, including all trash and waste. Campsites are unmarked, allowing you the flexibility to choose your own spot. We ask that you remain respectful and mindful of other campers by allowing generous space between setups and keeping noise and lights low. Access Information: Please be aware that the road leading to the property is rough and bumpy in places. While it is passable for most vehicles in dry conditions, high clearance is strongly recommended. Guests should drive slowly and carefully at all times. What to Expect: You can look forward to primitive, off-grid boondocking with no power or water provided on this pack-it-in and pack-it-out property. The unmarked, dispersed camping allows you to choose your own site within a quiet high-desert setting featuring wide-open skies. The location offers excellent sunsets and world-class stargazing, all while maintaining easy access near Golconda and the I-80 corridor. The property is pet-friendly with supervision and is best suited for respectful, experienced campers who appreciate simple desert camping and leaving no trace. Important Arrival Notes: There is no signage or marked campsites on the property, so we recommend arriving before dark if possible to navigate the terrain. Please drive slowly as the road is uneven in spots, and remember that high clearance is recommended, especially after recent rain.
Pets
Merlin Springs Secluded Camping

15. Merlin Springs Secluded Camping

100%
(32)
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
Campfires
Potable water
Rockin' N Ranch Buena Vista Valley

16. Rockin' N Ranch Buena Vista Valley

98%
(183)
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!
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Campfires
Schellraiser

17. Schellraiser

98%
(197)
Mc Gill, NV · 84 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Schellraiser music fest offers a variety of seasonal camping options at our 80-acre private campground in the cool high desert of Eastern Nevada's Steptoe Valley, near the small town of McGill. Our Lotus Belle-brand bell tents are solar powered and fully furnished, with king, queen and twin beds; organic Avocado-brand mattresses; rugs; loveseats; floor lamps; charging ports and wi-fi service. Car-camping and pitch-your-own-tent sites without power are also available. Our campground features several tiny homes; we've converted the biggest one into our clubhouse that is now open to all guests from Thursday through Sunday nights. The clubhouse has a small kitchen area for cooking simple meals. We're also gearing up to reopen our coffee bar on weekends in late spring 2025; our menu features hot and cold espresso drinks, organic teas and organic chocolate bars. A heated six-unit restroom/shower trailer is on site. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY, TO ENSURE THAT WE MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS: We are an OFF-GRID campground, in a very remote part of rural Eastern Nevada. To reach our campground, you must drive eight-tenths of a mile off the main highway, on a rocky DIRT ROAD that is susceptible to flooding from April to mid-July in wet years. Drivers with Teslas, Audis and low-clearance vehicles are STRONGLY ADVISED to look elsewhere for lodging. PLEASE READ ALL CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS, OUR TRAVEL ADVISORY, OUR FIRE BAN ADVISORY AND CAMPGROUND RULES BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US. ABOUT THE AREA: Schellraiser is just minutes away from the High Schells and Bristlecone wilderness areas, and within an hour's drive of Nevada's wildest high-mountain and high-desert scenery. Subalpine peaks, rugged canyons, wild rock formations, natural hot springs and ghost towns are all around us, and the surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, including Nevada's biggest elk herd. ABOUT US: We're the founders of the annual Schellraiser micro-fest, which brought bands like Ladytron, Mercury Rev, The Raveonettes, Blonde Redhead, Asleep At The Wheel, We Are Scientists, The Joy Formidable, Blitzen Trapper, Old 97's, Houndmouth, Shannon Shaw and BRONCHO to the nearby McGill Pool Park each spring. The fest will return to a new venue (not in McGill) in 2026.
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Showers
Star Gaze Ranch

18. Star Gaze Ranch

100%
(25)
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 ☕ Extras include: fresh ranch coffee, egg sandwiches made with ranch eggs, and a bit of good ol’ outlaw West reading material to enjoy by the fire. 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 :)
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Model Farm

19. Model Farm

85%
(37)
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
Antelope Run Ranch

20. Antelope Run Ranch

88%
(16)
Valmy, NV · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Antelope Run Ranch, a one-of-a-kind off-grid escape tucked deep within Nevada’s Pumpernickel Valley, between Battle Mountain and Winnemucca. Spanning more than 40 acres of rugged desert beauty, this developing retreat offers vast open skies, endless exploration, and a chance to experience the high desert the way it was meant to be—quiet, raw, and unforgettable. Here, solitude meets adventure. Whether you’re off-roading, stargazing, hiking, or simply seeking stillness, Antelope Run Ranch gives you space to breathe, explore, and reconnect. The ranch stretches across an expansive section of open Nevada desert, with a dry riverbed winding through its heart. This natural feature tells the story of the land—once carved by flowing water, now home to soft sand, wild sagebrush, and the occasional curious pronghorn antelope. Everywhere you look, the horizon stretches without end, framed by distant mountain ranges that glow gold at sunrise and turn deep violet by dusk. When night falls, the Milky Way reveals itself in spectacular clarity, making Antelope Run Ranch one of the best stargazing spots in northern Nevada. Small young trees—recently planted and lovingly tended—hint at the ranch’s gradual transformation into a sustainable desert haven. Each visit offers a new glimpse of its evolution. Three operational campsites are available, each large enough for a travel trailer, rooftop tent, or ground tent. These sites are spaced widely apart, allowing guests to enjoy solitude and quiet while still being close enough to share meals and stories with others. Future upgrades will include a central communal area—a shared cooking and gathering spot where guests can meet, eat, and relax under the stars before retreating to their own camps for rest. Antelope Run Ranch isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a launch point for adventure. Surrounded by miles of BLM land, guests have unlimited freedom to explore. Bring your 4x4 vehicle, ATV, or UTV and dive into soft desert sands, rocky trails, and open valley plains. Whether you’re hunting, rockhounding, hiking, or just wandering, the landscape invites exploration in every direction. If you’re a stargazer, photographer, off-road enthusiast, or someone who loves wild open places, this ranch was made for you.
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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

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