Whether your approach to camping near Reno looks like glamping in a canvas yurt with all the amenities, pitching a tent away from service, or parking at an urban RV resort for a night or two, we’ve got you covered. With the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains, miles of open Bureau of Land Management land, and Northern California as our neighbor, the greater Northern Nevada region is home to some of the best outdoor adventure spots.
But, with temperatures rising and wildfire season starting, always check current fire restrictions wherever you decide to call home for the night. For Nevada’s, click here.
So, what type of camper are you? If you like to kick back and relax, get out and explore, or both, this list of ideas is sure to please, no matter your camping style.
Which Camping Near Reno Experience Is Right For You?
Glamping
Inn Town Campground
If you’re searching for camping near Reno but still want access to modern amenities, look no further than the Inn Town Campground in Nevada City. With 20 unique glamping tents, each comes with electricity, heated mattress pads, fans, comfy mattresses, fresh linens, side tables, private porches, outdoor seating, and more. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, this glamping experience—about 1.5 hours from Reno—serves as the perfect getaway.
American River Front
Want to skip the extensive process of setting up camp? Now you can, with a riverfront cabin tent on the American River. This river retreat is about a 2-hour drive from Reno, providing canvas tents equipped with cots, sleeping pads, and chairs. You also have access to a private picnic table to dine at a stone’s throw from the river.
Soak Under The Stars
Benton Hot Springs
For a truly unique experience camping near Reno, you can take a scenic 3.5-hour drive south to spring-fed hot springs in Benton, California. For maximum tranquility, every site has a private tub. But remember, swimwear is optional at most hot springs. So, that’s up to personal discretion. You can control the temperature of your tub by adding cold water or using sprinklers to cool the water further. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Spencer Hot Springs
This natural and rustic hot springs experience is super easy to access if you want to relax while camping near Reno. Located on unimproved public land in Austin, Nevada, Spencer hot springs provides nothing but spectacular views and good times. But, it’s also not near any major cities. So, plan ahead and prepare extra fuel, gear to swap out a tire, water, and food. It’s also essential to follow proper hot springing etiquette. If you want to learn more about how to become a hot springs pro, read this guide.
Traditional Tent Camping
Boyington Mill
Located about 35 minutes from Reno, this hidden gem of a campground rests alongside the little Truckee River about 35 minutes from Reno. As a popular destination for fishing, hiking, and off-road trails, visitors can easily access the Stampede Reservoir and Boca Reservoir nearby. The campsites are also spacious and well-maintained. So, grab your tent and get ready to enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors.
Davis Creek Campground
This Northern Nevada campground in Washoe Valley offers accessible camping near Reno with outstanding views of Washoe Lake and Slide Mountain. With 62 overnight campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis, you can select the perfect site to pitch your tent. There are also hot showers available year-round. So, don’t forget to bring your quarters and body soap to start the day fresh.
Mount Rose Campground
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this campground sits at 9,300 feet overlooking Lake Tahoe. As the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, you can spend the day hiking, bird watching, and more. At Mount Rose Campground, camping near Reno has never been more accessible.
Get Off The Grid
Lookout Campground
Lookout Campground is the place for you if you’re looking for a remote camping spot that feels like your own personal slice of heaven. This is your home-away-from-home spot located on the California-Nevada border, about 30 miles west of Reno, offering stunning views and all the peace you could ever want. While it’s not highly developed, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including picnic tables and fire rings.
The Mugwumps
Nevada is known for its expansive landscapes and boondocking opportunities. Because of this, you can drive for hours without seeing a gas station or grocery store. So, keep that in mind while traveling to remote spots, such as the Mugwumps. This now-dry camping area used to be part of Winnemucca Lake, named after the unique tufa limestone formations you’ll find nearby. While most sites come with fire pits and the occasional cell service, this area is known for having loose sand and silt. So, if you’re planning on driving your RV in, it’s always best to scope out the terrain first.
RV Park
River West Resort
Located on the edge of downtown Reno, this RV Park is conveniently located near Idlewild Park. With towering pines curving alongside the Truckee River, you can enjoy a romantic staycation or getaway. Despite having easy access to the city, this RV park embodies a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, specializing in spaces for long and short-term guests.
Sparks Marina
With its well-kept turf yards, tree-lined avenues, and central location, this recreational park in Sparks offers everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Perfect for the whole family, you’re close to local-favorite attractions such as Wild Island Family Adventure Park, IMAX theater, and the Sparks Marina. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the city sights or escape them for a while, this is the place for you.
At Dickson Realty, we believe the camping near Reno is part of what makes life in the greater Northern Nevada region so great. For more information about what our community has to offer, contact one of our REALTORS today.
