The best camping in Dayton State Park, NV

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In the historic town of Dayton, this Nevada park is known for its huge cottonwood trees and Carson River access.  

The best camping in Dayton State Park, NV

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

2. Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
11mi from Dayton State Park · 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
Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

4. Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

95%
(10)
26mi from Dayton State Park · 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
Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

5. Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(199)
35mi from Dayton State Park · 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
Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

9. Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

100%
(1)
25mi from Dayton State Park · 1 site · Tent · Carter Springs, NV
Nestled in the scenic Carson Valley just outside Lake Tahoe, Pinenut Creek Ranch & Resort is a one-of-a-kind, 17-acre off-grid haven. This Old West–themed retreat blends rustic charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique glamping experience in plush tipis, authentic wagons, and cozy miner tents—set to be added in the spring of 2026. More than just a getaway, our ranch is dedicated to strengthening relationships and building community. We emphasize life skills for teens and provide hands-on education in animal husbandry and permaculture. Guests can enjoy farm-to-fork organic cuisine sourced directly from our land while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Sierra Nevadas. We warmly invite like-minded, faith-driven individuals and families to join us—whether for a retreat, a hands-on workshop at our permaculture school, or simply to relax and reconnect in a wholesome, supportive environment.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

10. Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

25mi from Dayton State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Stateline, NV
Welcome to the mountains. Come breathe the cool mountain air. Whether you're looking for a place to go skiing in the winter or mountain biking and hiking in the summer, our house on Tramway is close to it all. Cozy and in the midst of the Sierra-Nevada mountains with all the beauty and serenity included. Lake Tahoe is a world renown location for anyone seeking adventure, a fun family vacation, or a romantic getaway. Forget the monotony of your daily routine and come enjoy the mountains. The space **Tramway Sierra Summit** HOA Statement: ● This rental is located in a residential neighborhood. Loud parties and disruptive behavior are not tolerated. This neighborhood is monitored by a 24/7 call service. ● Quiet hours are 9 pm - 8 am. ● Two (2) cars maximum allowed* Renters are required to properly display a host-provided parking permit on the driver’s side dashboard of their vehicle. Failure to display the parking permit may result in a citation and fine of $500 to the owner of the vehicle. ● Fireworks, wood fire pits, and charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited. ● During inclement winter weather either 4WD and snow tires, or 2WD and chains are required to access this Unit. All guests must move all vehicles within 24 hours of a snow storm. ● All dogs must be on a leash at all times and owners must pick up feces immediately and dispose of them in an appropriate trash container or dumpster. About the property: 2 bedroom +Loft, 2 full bathrooms. Max # of permitted overnight occupants: 8 (This listing is advertised for 6, however, two additional occupants would require the use of a pullout couch). Please be advised, per Douglas County, gatherings and events that exceed the maximum occupancy of the vacation home rental are prohibited. Max # of permitted vehicles: 2 Street parking is not allowed at rentals in Tahoe.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$199
 / night
Natural Time Retreat Center...

11. Natural Time Retreat Center...

25mi from Dayton State Park · 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
Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

14. Alpine Valley /|\ Tahoe-Toiyabe NFs

89%
(57)
33mi from Dayton State Park · 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
Dayton RV Park

17. Dayton RV Park

0.8mi from Dayton State Park · 101 sites · Dayton, NV
Discover a unique RV Park experience that combines comfort and adventure, perfect for motorhomes, travel trailers, and self-contained Class B and C rigs. Our park features 50 spacious full hook-up sites, equipped with 30/50/110 electrical connections, sewer access, and beautifully maintained artificial turf. Enjoy the convenience of picnic tables and a designated picnic area with BBQ facilities, making it easy to savor outdoor meals with family and friends. We offer flexible stay options, including nightly, weekly, long-term, and seasonal spaces. For those seeking adventure, nearby trails provide excellent opportunities for dirt biking, ATV, and UTV excursions, while golf and hiking options are just a stone's throw away. To maintain a clean and pleasant environment, we kindly ask guests to refrain from using clotheslines, hammocks, or attaching items to trees. Additionally, please avoid storing items under your RV, and note that generator use is only permitted during prolonged power outages. We understand the need to charge batteries and run appliances, so we appreciate your mindfulness regarding generator usage. Our park is equipped with a dog run, wireless fiber internet, on-site showers, and a laundry facility for your convenience. Limited pull-thru sites are available to accommodate larger rigs. If you have any special requests or need assistance
Pets
Toilets
Davis Creek Regional Park

19. Davis Creek Regional Park

10mi from Dayton State Park · 1 site · Washoe Valley, NV
Nestled within the stunning Davis Creek Regional Park, this campground stands out for its breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Washoe Lake, and Slide Mountain. This picturesque location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and campers alike. Open year-round, the campground features 62 overnight campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis, unless previously reserved. While there are no hook-ups, the campground can accommodate longer travel trailers, with 19 designated sites (sites 21 - 39) suitable for vehicles up to 32 feet in length. For added convenience, hot showers are available throughout the year for a small fee, so be sure to bring quarters. Whether you're looking to hike the scenic trails, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or simply relax in a serene environment, this campground offers a perfect escape into nature. With its combination of stunning landscapes and essential amenities, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Pets
Gold Dust West Casino and RV Park

20. Gold Dust West Casino and RV Park

11mi from Dayton State Park · 21 sites · Carson City, NV
Nestled just minutes away from the stunning Lake Tahoe and the historic charm of Virginia City, the Gold Dust West Carson City Good Sam Approved RV Park stands out as a premier destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. This full-service RV park offers a variety of accommodations, including spacious back-in and pull-through sites, complete with 30 and 50 amp hookups to ensure a comfortable stay. While you’re here, take advantage of the myriad of outdoor activities available in the area. Whether you’re an avid golfer, a fishing enthusiast, or someone who enjoys skiing, hiking, or biking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. After a day of exploration, unwind at the Gold Dust West, where you can indulge in dining options, entertainment, and more. With its prime location and excellent amenities, Gold Dust West Carson City RV Park is the ideal spot for those looking to experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that this region has to offer. Come and discover the perfect blend of comfort and adventure!
Pets
Toilets

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Top-rated campgrounds

Sunshine, Serenity and Sierras

96%
(37)
11mi from Dayton State Park · 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

Lahontan Shores High Desert Retreat

95%
(10)
26mi from Dayton State Park · 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

Flyte and Sparrow natural interlude

97%
(199)
35mi from Dayton State Park · 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

Pine Nut Creek Ranch and Resort

100%
(1)
25mi from Dayton State Park · 1 site · Tent · Carter Springs, NV
Nestled in the scenic Carson Valley just outside Lake Tahoe, Pinenut Creek Ranch & Resort is a one-of-a-kind, 17-acre off-grid haven. This Old West–themed retreat blends rustic charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique glamping experience in plush tipis, authentic wagons, and cozy miner tents—set to be added in the spring of 2026. More than just a getaway, our ranch is dedicated to strengthening relationships and building community. We emphasize life skills for teens and provide hands-on education in animal husbandry and permaculture. Guests can enjoy farm-to-fork organic cuisine sourced directly from our land while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Sierra Nevadas. We warmly invite like-minded, faith-driven individuals and families to join us—whether for a retreat, a hands-on workshop at our permaculture school, or simply to relax and reconnect in a wholesome, supportive environment.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

Tramway near Heavenly/ Dogs OK/ New Heating & Air

25mi from Dayton State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Stateline, NV
Welcome to the mountains. Come breathe the cool mountain air. Whether you're looking for a place to go skiing in the winter or mountain biking and hiking in the summer, our house on Tramway is close to it all. Cozy and in the midst of the Sierra-Nevada mountains with all the beauty and serenity included. Lake Tahoe is a world renown location for anyone seeking adventure, a fun family vacation, or a romantic getaway. Forget the monotony of your daily routine and come enjoy the mountains. The space **Tramway Sierra Summit** HOA Statement: ● This rental is located in a residential neighborhood. Loud parties and disruptive behavior are not tolerated. This neighborhood is monitored by a 24/7 call service. ● Quiet hours are 9 pm - 8 am. ● Two (2) cars maximum allowed* Renters are required to properly display a host-provided parking permit on the driver’s side dashboard of their vehicle. Failure to display the parking permit may result in a citation and fine of $500 to the owner of the vehicle. ● Fireworks, wood fire pits, and charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited. ● During inclement winter weather either 4WD and snow tires, or 2WD and chains are required to access this Unit. All guests must move all vehicles within 24 hours of a snow storm. ● All dogs must be on a leash at all times and owners must pick up feces immediately and dispose of them in an appropriate trash container or dumpster. About the property: 2 bedroom +Loft, 2 full bathrooms. Max # of permitted overnight occupants: 8 (This listing is advertised for 6, however, two additional occupants would require the use of a pullout couch). Please be advised, per Douglas County, gatherings and events that exceed the maximum occupancy of the vacation home rental are prohibited. Max # of permitted vehicles: 2 Street parking is not allowed at rentals in Tahoe.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$199
 / night

Natural Time Retreat Center...

25mi from Dayton State Park · 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

Other options near Dayton State Park

The best camping in Dayton State Park, NV guide

Overview

About

A small enclave just below the Virginia Range, Dayton, Nevada, features 1860s mining history and a state park in the center of town. Once an important commercial hub for the historic Comstock Lode in nearby Virginia City, the on-site Rock Point Mill once processed ore for the mines and is now open for tours. Dayton today draws campers to its treed day-use areas and grassy campsites—the sole Dayton State Park campground features 10 campsites, each with picnic tables and barbecues. Fresh water, restrooms with flush toilets, and a dump station are available. The sites are shaded by the park’s massive cottonwood trees with easy access to the Carson River as well as the amenities in Dayton.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The Dayton State Park campground does not accept reservations and all the sites are first-come, first-served.
  2. Because of its proximity to Dayton and quick access off Highway 50, Dayton campsites can fill up quickly on the weekends. Arriving during the week or a day or two before the weekend gives you a better chance to snag a site.

When to go

Any time is a good time to head to this high desert area. Fall is best, when the trees turn their golden colors, while spring offers the best water flow in the Carson River. Summers can be hot, but there is plenty of shade at Dayton State Park. Winters can be mild, but an occasional cold wind can blow hard through the canyon.

Know before you go

  • Dayton is just a few miles from famous Virginia City in the foothills above town. Virginia City is a historic mining town with many original buildings still intact, including the supposedly haunted Washoe Club, which has been featured on various Travel Channel programs. Virginia City also has some fun bars, restaurants, and shops.
  • For a little more history, check out Dayton’s historic downtown. It’s only a few blocks, but features original buildings such as the historic Pony Express station. There is also some fun public art, a few restaurants, and walkable streets.
  • Dayton is home to a famous micronation. The Republic of Molossia is one of the smallest independent nations on earth at only 11.3 acres. It boasts its own Navy, space program, bank, measurement system, and time zone. Molossia is open for tours during several spring weekends each year.
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