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Nevada parks highlight the state’s surprising natural diversity. It’s not just desert—wetlands, forests, mountain ranges, spectacular geological formations, and even dinosaur fossils can all be enjoyed at Nevada state park campgrounds. You might spot unique wildlife, including wild horses, bighorn sheep, white pelicans, and an abundance of other migratory birds.
If you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, Nevada’s pristine lakes and rivers won’t disappoint. Hiking and biking opportunities abound through these diverse landscapes. Historic sites range from Native American petroglyphs to ghost towns from the Silver State’s mining boom.
There’s never been a better time to visit Nevada state parks. A 2017 governor’s initiative, the single biggest investment in the park system in history, includes the development of two brand-new parks, upgrades to existing infrastructure, and additional conservation efforts. And for those who need to stay connected on the road, Nevada is the first state in the country committed to providing WiFi in all state parks.
Reservations
All Nevada state park campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Although a new reservation system was planned as part of the 2017 initiative, details are still in the works.
Campsite sizes
Size limitations vary greatly at each campground. Some new pull-through sites for larger RVs have been added recently, and Nevada campgrounds are generally big rig friendly. But it’s best to contact the specific park in advance for details, especially if your RV is over 25 feet.
Accessibility
The state park website does not specify the number of dedicated ADA-accessible sites at each campground. It’s best to contact the specific park for this information.
Hookups
Most campgrounds offer some sites with electric and water hookups and/or a dump station. Adding hookups is part of the 2017 initiative, but it’s best to contact the specific park for the latest information.
Connectivity
WiFi, where available, is fee based. Charges range from $8 for one device for 24 hours, to a $99 plan that includes multiple devices and 30 gigabytes for 30 days.
Maximum stay
Generally, the maximum stay is 14 days out of any 30, although a few campgrounds have a maximum of 7 days. This is specified under each park on the state parks website.
Additional facilities
All of Nevada’s state park campgrounds have central restrooms and potable water, and about half also offer showers. Most campsites include a fire ring and picnic table. Many also have a shade structure and barbecue grill.
Cost
Sites are $15 to $20 per night, with an additional $10 charge for sites with hookups. Be sure to bring cash. Some parks will have an attendant available, but with first come, first served, be ready to leave exact change in an envelope drop box to secure your site.
Pet policies
Pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. And of course, campers should always pick up after their pet.
Additional regulations
- Maximum occupancy per site: 8 people and 2 vehicles.
- Check-in and check-out times: Unless a campsite is reserved, camping is on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers must vacate by 2 p.m. at the end of the term paid for or the maximum stay unless the park supervisor designates otherwise.
- Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Alcoholic beverages: Glass is not allowed on any beach or waterfront area.
- Generator use: Prohibited during quiet hours.
- Campfires: Allowed in designated rings or pits, following local advisories.
- Drone use: Prohibited, unless in a designated spot or with a permit.
Featured Campgrounds
Valley of Fire State Park
29450 Valley of Fire Highway, Overton, NV 89040
Valley of Fire is easily recognizable by its stunning red Aztec sandstone formations. If it hadn’t been designated a state park in 1935, it may well have become a national park or monument. Only 50 miles from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire is a popular day trip. But if you can secure one of the 72 campsites, the real magic happens after the crowds leave. You are left with the silence, setting sun, glowing red rock walls, and maybe even bighorn sheep wandering through the campground. Atlatl Rock Campground has restrooms, showers, some sites with hookups, and WiFi. The smaller the RV, the more options you have, but there are a few sites that can accommodate big rigs. The campground is easily accessible by a paved loop road.
Cathedral Gorge State Park
111 Cathedral Gorge State Park Road, Panaca, NV 89042
This may be the most stunning state park you’ve never heard of. As its name implies, this narrow valley is surrounded by sheer rock spires, formed out of layers of volcanic ash over tens of millions of years. A family-friendly 4-mile loop hiking trail passes through dramatic slot canyons and caves. The campground is an easily accessible and well-maintained loop with 22 sites. All have hookups and most can accommodate larger RVs. Campground WiFi is available. Like many state parks in Nevada, Cathedral Gorge is out of the way. If you’re traveling from Las Vegas, it’s an unforgettable overnight stop on the way to Great Basin or Zion National Park.
Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park
State Route 844, Austin, NV 89310
What other state park in the country combines a ghost town with dinosaur fossils? Technically a marine reptile, Ichthyosaurs were contemporaries of the dinosaurs. The largest known Ichthyosaur fossil can be found in the Fossil House at this state park. (When it’s closed for tours, the fossils can still be viewed from the outside.) A self-guided tour delves into the more recent history of the ghost town of Berlin, established in the 1890s. The campground is rustic but well maintained, with a dump station but no hookups. Remote and accessed by dirt road (OK for two-wheel drive), Berlin-Ichthyosaur is a peaceful place to observe wildlife and the night sky in addition to its unique historical sites. Note that sites can accommodate RVs only up to 25 feet.
Nevada state park campgrounds that accommodate RV camping
Beaver Dam State Park
Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park
Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area
Cathedral Gorge State Park
Cave Lake State Park
Dayton State Park
Echo Canyon State Park
Fort Churchill State Historic Park
Kershaw-Ryan State Park
Lahontan State Recreation Area
Rye Patch State Recreation Area
South Fork State Recreation Area
Spring Valley State Park
Valley of Fire State Park
Walker River State Recreation Area
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Washoe Lake State Park
Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area
For more information on Nevada state park campgrounds, visit parks.nv.gov.
