11 Glorious Campgrounds In Nevada Where No Reservation Is Required
The camping season is well upon us, and Nevada has no shortage of spectacular campgrounds where no reservation is required. From the many mountains in the Silver State to the blue waters of Lake Mead, Lake Tahoe, and other bodies of water, to the desert for which Nevada is known, here is a list of 11 of the best no reservation campgrounds in Nevada for a restful sojourn within nature. Take a look.
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Located in the Spring Mountains near Mt. Charleston just 24 miles from Las Vegas, Fletcher View Campground sits in an open forest of ponderosa pine, mountain mahogany and Gambel oak. Most sites have views of the surrounding towering canyon walls. This recently renovated campground in Nevada is open year-round and contains several single and double sites, all of which have electric hookups, tables, campfire rings and grills. Drinking water is also available, while roads and parking spurs are paved. Address: Forest Road, Mt Charleston, NV 89124
Just 20 miles south of Reno is Davis Creek Park. This campground/day area offers outstanding views of Washoe Lake and Slide Mountain. The 62 campsites feature individual picnic sites, dump stations, and hot showers. Additional amenities include self-guided nature trails, equestrian trails, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a small scenic pond for non-motorized watercraft. Larger trailers can be accommodated at 19 sites; however, there are no hookups. The campground is open year round, and pets are welcome. Address: 25 Davis Creek Circle, New Washoe City, NV 89704
Located on Lake Mead approximately 1.5 miles south of the marina and boat launch area, Boulder Beach campground is a gorgeous, no reservations necessary, primitive campground. Amenities include scattered water faucets, room for larger RVs, BBQ or fire pits, and picnic tables. There are no hook ups. Address: 268 Lakeshore Road, Boulder City, NV 89005
Stay in one of five developed campgrounds in this amazing national park. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, tent pads, and campfire grills. Be aware, however, that there are no hookups. Each campsite is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles. Or rough it in the one primitive campground. Only Lower Lehman Campground is open year round.
5. Arch Rock Campground, Valley of Fire State Park
Choose from one of two campgrounds in Nevada at this gorgeous park complete with bright red rock formations. Both campsites are first-come, first-serve and have a combined total of 72 units. Amenities include shaded tables, grills, water, and restrooms. A dump station and showers are also available.
6. Toquima Cave Campground, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Nestled in the forest, this small campground has just five single sites and one larger one; however, if you can get a spot here, you will not be disappointed. In addition to picnic tables and toilets, this campground is in close walking proximity to the petroglyph-decorated Toquima Cave.
Nestled in a pinyon-juniper forest, this high altitude campground sits at 7,200 feet. Amenities include drinking water, toilets, and picnic tables, as well as ample fishing opportunities, mountain biking trails, and hunting opportunities (when in season.) Pets are not allowed. Address: US-50, Austin, NV 89310
Located near Emerald Bay and 7,100 feet above sea level, this campground offers 13 campsites, vault restroom, fire rings, and corral/watering facilities for horses (seasonal). Great hiking to Cascade falls is nearby as well as gorgeous panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevadas.
Campsites are nestled in a sparse forest of evergreen shrubs and pine trees just minutes from the sparkling blue water of Lake Tahoe. Each site has tables, grills, and campfire rings. Toilets and drinking water are also available. Address: Bittlers Road, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448
Camping in Nevada is always a spectacular adventure. Keep these campsites in mind for your next family camping trip! Have you camped at any of these gorgeous, no reservation campgrounds? Did I leave your favorite off the list? Please comment below.
There are tons of really great campgrounds to choose from in Nevada, so it really depends on the type of experience you’d like to have. For a unique camping adventure unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else, check out Valley of Fire State Park, Cathedral Gorge State Park, and the Black Rock Desert Recreation Area. If lush forests and lakes are more your thing, then you’ll want to take a look at the Ruby Mountains Scenic Area, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, and Great Basin National Park. All of these destinations are recommended for their incredible camping opportunities.
Are you allowed to camp in state parks?
Yes, most of Nevada’s state parks boast year-round or seasonal camping for visitors. Keep in mind that some campgrounds in Nevada may have limited facilities or access during the winter months, though. Each park is unique so there’s bound to be a state park camping style that suits you, whether you consider yourself a diehard tent camper or an RV or cabin “glamper”. Learn more about Nevada’s state parks and their camping options at their official website here.
What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?
Be sure to always pack the necessities, no matter what type of camping you’ll be doing. These include medical supplies, bug spray, sunscreen, suitable clothing, food, and water. If you’re going somewhere remote, you’ll also want to be sure you have plenty of fuel and reliable transportation. When you’re camping in a cabin or something of the sort, some amenities may be provided for you. However, if you’re tent camping, you’ll want to be sure to create a thorough list of anything and everything you may need for a comfortable and safe camping trip ahead of time.
