Best Free Camping in Nevada

Free Camping in Nevada: How to Find (and use) BLM Lands

By Tania Griffis

Nevada is proof that there’s beauty in the desert. With cascading cliffs, striking red canyons, and wide-open skies, this scenic state is a popular destination for campers.

Of course, Nevada isn’t all desert land. Lake Tahoe and Lake Mead National Recreation Area are two popular destinations within the state that offer water-based activities such as boating and fishing. Plus, don’t forget that if you somehow tire of nature, you can head to the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, which is nestled in southern Nevada.

Those who are budget-conscious may ask if there is free camping in Nevada. The answer is a resounding yes! If you are interested in free camping in Nevada, you will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the state’s BLM land.

See a map of all free camping in Nevada.

BLM Nevada

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is the agency in Nevada that manages the public land—and there is quite a bit of it to manage. In fact, an incredible 67% of the state is BLM-managed public land. This means almost fifty million acres of land are available to explore, enjoy, and camp on.

Can you Camp Anywhere in Nevada?

While you can’t camp anywhere in Nevada (such as private property), the state gives you plenty of opportunities to pitch a tent. Even better? With the BLM Nevada, camping can even be free!

Dispersed Camping vs Developed Campgrounds

There are two main types of camping in the state: developed campgrounds and dispersed camping.

Developed campgrounds typically have amenities for campers that can include a camping area with fire rings, bathrooms, RV parking, and more. These types of campgrounds are typically not free as campers will need to pay to use the facilities.

On the other hand, dispersed camping is a more primitive way of camping. If you want to connect with nature and get some fresh air and solitude, this may be the preferred option.

Much of Nevada’s BLM managed lands are available for dispersed camping. There are no fees associated with this type of camping, so this is an excellent option for those seeking free camping in Nevada. There are a few rules that campers will need to abide by, however:

  • Limit the days spent in one location. Campers cannot stay in the same spot on public land for more than 14 days within a 28 day period. After the two week period, you will need to move at least 25 miles away. You can return to your original campsite after another 14 days if you like.
  • Practice the "Leave No Trace Seven Principles." Campers have the responsibility to leave an area just as they found it (or better if necessary). This means to pack up and haul away all trash, choosing to camp on durable, hard surfaces, respect wildlife, and minimize the effects of any campfires you may have.

BLM Land Map for Nevada

To take advantage of enjoying BLM land, you will need to first make sure that you are actually in the public area and not on private property. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use a map.

Supporters of the website receive access to a BLM map overlay to ensure you are taking advantage of free camping in Nevada legally. Subscribe to Campendium here and receive access to this map, along with other helpful features.

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Recent Nevada Free Campsite Reviews

Mar 10, 2024

"Great Spot "

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We stayed for 5 nights. We drive a class C 23 ft and were able to find a nice fairly level spot. There are a lot of rocks on the ground and the dust is that red fine stuff that covered the dogs! But the road is doable for most ( saw buses and 30 ft trailers) just go slow.

camper-899790
11 reviews
Feb 29, 2024

"Perfect Spot For Free Camping Close To Valley Of Fire"

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We stayed four nights. Perfect location for Valley of Fire and even to go to Vegas. Lots of spots along the road to stay. Quiet and dark at night. There were quite a few others camped but plenty of space between. AT&T worked good.

white.van_no.plan
43 reviews

"Windy Chaos"

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I would not recommend staying here at the end of February beginning of March, there is a dirt race happening. The place gets crowded, it’s noisy all day and of course sand is flying everywhere. A majority of the people do not care about the land and throw trash everywhere, including ATV parts, screws, computers and broken glass. Be careful about...
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camper-816137
2 reviews
Pahrump, NV

Gold Town Casino

Feb 29, 2024

"Okay For One Night "

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Good for a night if you need it but may want to look for other options. Pros: free, felt safe, security ok’d one night, good cell service Cons: wasn’t very level, road noise, tractor trailer company uses same spaces and swaps loads and rigs throughout the night

white.van_no.plan
43 reviews
Feb 29, 2024

"Scenic And Wild"

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This is a place of scenic beauty. We camped surrounded by Joshua Trees with wild horses and burros in the distance. We didn’t go to the gem area or into town but both seem like interesting places. There was a storm at night and it was rainy and super windy but the road was perfectly fine when we left in the morning.

white.van_no.plan
43 reviews