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Wondering about free camping near Las Vegas? Visiting Las Vegas is an unforgettable experience that’s even sweeter when you can camp for free!
As a Las Vegas local, I’ve been exploring Nevada’s great outdoors, and I’m here to introduce you to some of the best free camping opportunities near Las Vegas.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet night in the desert or a spot to park your RV for a few days, there are plenty of options close to Sin City. Read on to discover the best spots for free camping near Las Vegas.
🚨 Remember to check all rules and regulations before camping at any of these spots. They will each have their own rules around how long you can camp for.
Free Camping Near Las Vegas
Lake Mead’s Government Wash
When it comes to free camping near Las Vegas, Government Wash in the Lake Mead Recreation Area is one of the best. With views that go on for miles, it’s easy to see why this is such a great option!
The dispersed campsites here have both drive-in and walk-in access. In the area, you can find electric hookups, picnic tables, drinking water, firewood, and a market. If you’re using a vehicle, there’s also sewer hookups, water hookups, and a sanitary dumb. Plus, larger RVs are welcome.
On the weekends, Government Wash can get pretty busy, so you’ll want to get there early. Or, you could try to get there on a weekday to beat the crowds if you want more options of choosing where to park.
One of the best parts of Government Wash is the stargazing. This is one of the best spots to go stargazing in Nevada!
While it’s free dispersed camping, you may have to get a permit here or pay an entry fee because it’s inside the Lake Mead area. However, if you have an America the Beautiful Pass, you can just use that for free entry.
Desert National Wildlife Refuge
Though it’s located about 2 hours from Vegas, the Desert National Wildlife Refuge is another of the great spots for Sin City camping. And yes, this one is 100% free!
While you do need a high-clearance vehicle to get to these campsites, you’ll be elated at the beauty of them when you get there. There are only six campsites here, and they are first-come, first-serve.
At the different campsites, you can find amenities like a fire ring, picnic table, vault toilet, tent pad, and more. Keep in mind that you do need to bring your own water!
Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area
There’s more dispersed camping at Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. There’s both drive-in and walk-in access. When visiting, it’s recommended that you go to the visitor center to grab a map first. That way, you also get a lay of the land before you go out.
One of the great things about camping here is that you can enjoy the nearby hiking. There are lots of great hiking spots near Vegas, but Sloan Canyon has some of the best.
While visiting Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, be sure to visit the Petroglyph Site. This is the #1 spot that everyone visits when going here. You’ll see so much art. Just be sure not to touch it!
Some of the best trails in Sloan Canyon are the Black Mountain Trail (7 miles), 403 Trail and Park Peak Loop (5 miles), and the McCullough and 601 Loop (4 miles).
Jean/Roach Dry Lakes
Jean/Roach Dry Lakes is another great spot for free camping near Las Vegas. It’s just 26 miles south of Las Vegas, making it an easy drive from the city.
Here, you can find a multitude of spots to camp, but keep in mind that the area is pretty flood-prone. Be sure to pay attention to the weather and do due diligence before deciding to camp here because water can be held inside the lakebed, even if it doesn’t look like it.
Lake Mead’s Kingman Wash
For more camping at Lake Mead, you can also head to Kingman Wash. Again, there are drive-in and walk-in access with this dispersed camping. Unlike some other camping spots, there’s actually decent phone service, and wifi is available.
Large RVs are welcome to stay here, as are pets. Because it’s in Lake Mead, you will have to pay an entry fee, but if you have an America the Beautiful Pass, it’s basically free.
If you’re interested in swimming or boating while you’re camping, then you won’t want to miss out on this spot. The sunsets here are also insanely beautiful!
Lovell Canyon
Last but certainly not least is one of the best camping spots near Vegas, Lovell Canyon Campground. There are no reservations available because it is first-come, first-serve, so you will want to get there early.
This dispersed camping spot inside the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is surrounded by incredible hiking (especially if you make the drive to the Mt. Charleston area) and isn’t that far from California. Big RVs and smaller ones are able to usually find a spot here.
Because this is a popular outdoor area, you may hear ATVs throughout the day, so keep in mind that it may not always be the quietest. However, when you have amenities like free fire pits and beautiful views, a little sound might not be that bothersome.
Be sure to check out the 5.5-mile Lovell Canyon Trail while you’re here. It’s a moderate loop trail that takes around 2.5 hours to complete with 900 feet of elevation gain.
Final thoughts: Las Vegas free camping
Camping is a great way to unplug, relax, and enjoy the outdoors near Las Vegas. Enjoy the sound of the wind blowing through the mountains… what could be better?
Make sure to come prepared with supplies and safety knowledge for an enjoyable time. Enjoy free camping near Las Vegas!
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