Nevada is so much more than Reno or Las Vegas. Nevada is one of the nation's largest states with thousands of square miles of backcountry to explore. Getting back to nature and tent camping under the stars is a great way to escape the stresses of everyday life. Nevada's backcountry offers you that escape and its beauty will astound you, from its snow-covered peaks to its high desert terrain. There are many campgrounds for you to choose from in the Silver State.
Camping in a National Park
Nevada's National Parks and Monuments offer you a variety of tent camping options in differing settings. Death Valley National Park has nine campgrounds, four of which charge no fees. This national park spread over 3 million acres of wilderness is home to the hottest place in North America and will offer you spectacular views of snow-covered peaks and sand dunes. You can walk the sand dunes or hike to Golden Canyon. Remember to carry enough water as water sources in Death Valley are unreliable or at times unsafe to drink. Great Basin National Park offers the darkest skies in the country and four developed campgrounds, as well as two primitive camping sites. Take a tour of the limestone formations in Lehman Caves or go caving in one of the eight wild caves that are accessible to the public.
Camping in a National Forest
Thomas Canyon campground, located in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, is surrounded by towering glacier-carved cliffs. Make reservations if you can, as this site is very well known and is full every weekend in season. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are common sights. If you enjoy rock climbing or bouldering, there are approximately 40 established climbing routes available. Pitch your tent at Virgin Valley Campground in Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge. These are primitive sites without much shade but the campground does offer its own semi-developed hots springs that you can climb into for a warm soak after a long hike.
Camping in a State Park
Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park is located on the western face of the Shoshone Mountains and is home to an archaeological park featuring Ichthyosaur fossils. Its campground contains 14 well-spaced units with fire ring, covered table, restrooms nearby and drinking water from mid-April to October. Cathedral Gorge State Park is a popular stop and camping here is on a first-come, first served basis. Explore the cathedral-like spires and cave-like formations by hiking one of the many trails.
Camping By a Lake
Walker Lake Recreation Management Area offers you a choice of more than 30 developed campsites. Enjoy an early morning swim at Sportsman Beach or go kayaking on Walker Lake. There are many campgrounds around Carson City, located close to beautiful Lake Tahoe. A four-mile beginner trail, for biking or hiking, begins in East Carson City and follows the railroad line. You may also choose the 13-mile McClellan Peak trail where you'll reach an altitude of 7,465 feet before you descend to the north Carson trailhead.
Camp Along Highway 50
For a real adventure, camp your way along "America's Loneliest Road," Highway 50, the 287-mile stretch from Ely to Fernley, Nevada. This is the route taken by the Pony Express and it is rich in Old West Nevada history. There are tent sites available in Fenley, Fallon and Austin directly off Highway 50. Try sandboarding on Sand Mountain, approximately 30 miles east of Fallon. Pitch your tent in Ely, close to Cave Lake State Park.
Cautions
Follow basic precautions and your camping adventures in Nevada will go well. Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated while hiking. Use sunscreen, limit sun exposure and strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. While camping and pursuing outdoor activities, leave no trace; do your part to make as little impact as possible.
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