Find a New Nevada Experience

RV resorts, state recreational areas and national parks combine to provide multi-day RV trips into the heart of the Silver State.

by

Courtesy Travel Nevada

Las Vegas and Reno may be the prime destinations in Nevada to visit throughout the winter but the open roads beyond their city limits lead to unique points of interest that truly define the Silver State. Destinations are abundant and serve snowbirds all winter. The arid, dry climate, friendly communities, plus RV resorts and state and national parks all provide perfect getaways. 

Even though you may enjoy long-term stays at your preferred RV resort, it’s worth taking road trips for a day or longer to see what lies on Nevada’s horizon. You just may find a unique destination, discover an outdoor activity or meet new friends. These are just five popular places to visit and all are ideal for exploring with your trailer or motorhome. 

Death Valley, Pahrump and RV Resorts 

Visiting and camping in Death Valley National Park serves as an excellent adventure. After experiencing the lowest, driest, and hottest place in North America, nearby Pahrump (about a 50-minute drive) and the Lakeside Casino and RV Park is an ideal retreat. 

In the shadow of Mt. Charleston - the state’s fifth tallest peak - Lakeside Casino and RV Park has 159 sites with several waterfront locations. All have concrete patios and 30-/50-amp power. The resort fee includes access to the swimming pool, hot tub, comfort stations, and laundry facilities. There’s also a lake for kayaking or paddleboarding to cool off. Nine-hole frisbee golf, horseshoes, a beach cabana, and access to gaming, dining and entertainment are other highlights. For more information about the Lakeside Casino and RV Park visit www.goldencasinogroup.com/rv-park.

Gold Butte National Monument and the Mojave Desert

This will be a true boondocking RV trip. Gold Butte National Monument is part of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in southeastern Nevada and encompasses 121,406 ha (300,000 ac) of expansive landscape in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Dry camping is available at Whitney Pocket, surrounded by meandering red canyons and towering rock formations. 

The area offers a lot of outdoor recreation by day and you can camp under a glittering, star-lit sky at night. A common day trip is driving the Gold Butte Backcountry Byway to the area’s mining ghost town. More camping and hiking opportunities are available and this is where you can spot wildlife and admire views of Lake Mead and Valley of Fire. Keep in mind that the byway is a rugged route and should be travelled only with high-clearance RVs or tow vehicles. For more information visit www.blm.gov.

Beaver Dam State Park

Located in Southeastern Nevada, Beaver Dam State Park is considered one of the most remote parks in the state and known for its deep canyons, dense forests, streams, and waterfalls. The park is at an elevation of approximately 1,585 m (5,200 ft) and the winter months average 7˚C (45˚F) with lows of -3˚C (25˚F) so it’s best to come prepared. Also, expect a boondocking experience as the two campgrounds have limited services without power and potable water is only accessible from April through November. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Whether you visit in the winter months or later in the snowbird season, it’ll be worth the trip. There are a number of hiking trails for all skill levels and some choices include the moderate Overlook Trail with panoramas of the canyon and the easy .5 km (.3 mi) Oak Knoll Trail that leads down to a flowing stream. The Waterfall Trail offers more access to warm springs and waterfalls. If you’re an angler, fishing is popular in the park as the streams are stocked with rainbow trout by The Nevada Department of Wildlife. Licenses are required and are not available in the park. For more information visit www.parks.nv.gov.

Walker Lake State Recreation Area

Located approximately 90 minutes south of Reno, Walker Lake State Recreation Area is a state park unit of Nevada and spans an impressive 5,202 ha (12,856 ac) along the 47 km (29 mi) East Walker River near Yerington, NV. This is one the newest and largest state park units and accommodates adventurous RVers throughout the year.  

With a variety of spaces to settle for a few days, the Big Horn Campground is a common choice for dry camping. It has 20-plus sites along the river known as The Elbow at Nine-Mile Ranch. Other choices include The Riverbend Campground that can accommodate travel trailers and motorhomes as well as The Quail Run Campground, which has power, water and shade ramadas. Restrooms and showers are available at both locations.  

Nine-Mile Ranch is a well-liked area in the park with the Visitors Center and 11.2 km (7 mi) of the river to explore. In ideal conditions, it’s perfect for floating and kayaking, and trout fishing is excellent. Hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing are other pastimes here. More units of the park including Rafter 7 Ranch and Flying M Ranch are expected to open soon. For more information and updates visit www.travelnevada.com or https://parks.nv.gov.