Camping in Mount Charleston, NV, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Nevada
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Mount Charleston

91% (1088 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Mount Charleston

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Valley of Fire State Park

320 campgrounds

Lucerne Valley

217 campgrounds

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, located right in the centre of the Park!

Death Valley National Park

339 campgrounds

Waking up to listen in below freezing temps, I could not complain one bit.

Mojave National Preserve

Under $50

100%

(28)

The Alchemist

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Pahrump, NV

Welcome! We are a 2 acre farm and animal sanctuary. Our private land is surrounded by 80 pine trees, We provide a safe place for neglected and abused farm animals. Today we have happy residents including, chickens, ducks, goats, 2 dogs (Oso and Sasha). Our place is very quiet and peaceful, fenced and gated for security. Water, electric and grey water dump available. Barbecue pit, Picnic tables, 1 large community fire pit for large groups and 1 private fire pit at your convinience. Toilet and hot water shower available. Our vital work would not be possible without your help. We welcome you to stay with us as it helps provide shelter, space and veterinary care our animals need. Thank you The Alchemist Activities near by : Hiking Horse back riding Mountain Biking Off roading Mount Charleston 1hr 40min Mountain springs 30min Las Vegas Nv 1hr

Jeffry’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

We are a local farm and rescue. All funds earned from our spare space go to feeding, maintenance and the care of all of our animals. We are best known for Fergie The Camel. She’s been spotted on national news multiple times for her love of french fries in the In-N-Out drive-through. She lives on property and loves attention! Check her out! https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/have-you-seen/2022/10/06/camel-gets-french-fries-n-out-drive-thru-las-vegas/8194957001/

98%

(147)

Garden Oasis in the Heart of Vegas

1 site · RV2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

Our property sits on 2 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. It is one of the original homesteads of Las Vegas which we are trying to take back to a homestead. The original owners of the property played a huge hand in the building of Vegas. As we have cleaned up the property treasures of a 100 years ago have been found all over the property. On the property you will find a huge garden out front that you are welcome to pick from. We also have over 50 trees on the property you are welcome to walk around and enjoy. If you find yourself in the duck coop or the chicken coop and find an egg you are welcome to enjoy it. Feel free to enjoy the pool, bbq and outside bathroom which has a shower, and full size washer and dryers. We are a smoke/drug free site please be respectful of this rule and violators will be asked to leave without refund. Because we are a "working hobby farm" you will see some weeds and you may even see a project or two we are working on, feel free to join in but please be understanding that in order for us to improve things it will get little messy and can take time to complete. Also, please check the weather before you book, Vegas if very hot during the summer months, if your rig doesn't have AC you will not be comfortable as night temps can be easily over 100.

Death Valley Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Beatty, NV

Our 8-acre property is located in the Mojave Desert surrounded by BLM land and nearby Death Valley National Park. One of the first vineyards in Nevada, we grow 5 varietals of grapes and make wine on-site. We offer guests camping, glamping, and an RV site. Camping and Glamping sites are located next to the vines and include picnic tables, shared composting toilets, kitchenette (bbq, gas cooktop), and an outdoor shower in our rustic bathhouse. We also have a community area "The Wine Hall" with ping-pong, refrigerator, microwave, and water cooler. Outside our gates, enjoy biking, hiking, scrambling, and exploring the Amargosa Desert and nearby Skeleton Hills. Nearby attractions include Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (30-minutes) and Death Valley National Park (45-minutes). We have spent a lot of time in the park and are happy to answer questions, make suggestions, or even take you on a tour.

Las Vegas RV Resort

376 sites · RVs10 acres · Las Vegas, NV

With 379 full hook-up sites and accommodations for 100-plus feet, we are overwhelmingly the first choice for RV camping in the Las Vegas region. All sites have 30 and 50 AMP connections for recreational vehicles. And, the only Adult-Only RV Resort in Las Vegas! Choose from standard, deluxe, premium, and XL sites. RVs must be fully self-contained with a grey and black water holding tank and must be 20 years or newer. RESORT AMENITIES & FEATURES Swimming Pool Laundry Clean Restrooms Meeting Room 24 Hour Courtesy Patrol Fitness Center Spa Pet Area General Store

12 top campgrounds near Mount Charleston

98%

(336)

Death Valley Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Beatty, NV

Our 8-acre property is located in the Mojave Desert surrounded by BLM land and nearby Death Valley National Park. One of the first vineyards in Nevada, we grow 5 varietals of grapes and make wine on-site. We offer guests camping, glamping, and an RV site. Camping and Glamping sites are located next to the vines and include picnic tables, shared composting toilets, kitchenette (bbq, gas cooktop), and an outdoor shower in our rustic bathhouse. We also have a community area "The Wine Hall" with ping-pong, refrigerator, microwave, and water cooler. Outside our gates, enjoy biking, hiking, scrambling, and exploring the Amargosa Desert and nearby Skeleton Hills. Nearby attractions include Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (30-minutes) and Death Valley National Park (45-minutes). We have spent a lot of time in the park and are happy to answer questions, make suggestions, or even take you on a tour.

Jeffry’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

We are a local farm and rescue. All funds earned from our spare space go to feeding, maintenance and the care of all of our animals. We are best known for Fergie The Camel. She’s been spotted on national news multiple times for her love of french fries in the In-N-Out drive-through. She lives on property and loves attention! Check her out! https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/have-you-seen/2022/10/06/camel-gets-french-fries-n-out-drive-thru-las-vegas/8194957001/

Garden Oasis in the Heart of Vegas

1 site · RV2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

Our property sits on 2 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. It is one of the original homesteads of Las Vegas which we are trying to take back to a homestead. The original owners of the property played a huge hand in the building of Vegas. As we have cleaned up the property treasures of a 100 years ago have been found all over the property. On the property you will find a huge garden out front that you are welcome to pick from. We also have over 50 trees on the property you are welcome to walk around and enjoy. If you find yourself in the duck coop or the chicken coop and find an egg you are welcome to enjoy it. Feel free to enjoy the pool, bbq and outside bathroom which has a shower, and full size washer and dryers. We are a smoke/drug free site please be respectful of this rule and violators will be asked to leave without refund. Because we are a "working hobby farm" you will see some weeds and you may even see a project or two we are working on, feel free to join in but please be understanding that in order for us to improve things it will get little messy and can take time to complete. Also, please check the weather before you book, Vegas if very hot during the summer months, if your rig doesn't have AC you will not be comfortable as night temps can be easily over 100.

98%

(212)

Mojave Desert Ranch

4 sites · Lodging160 acres · Sandy Valley, NV

We have a unique property with glamping accommodations located in Sandy Valley NV. One hour outside south Las Vegas off of US 15. We operate on a dude ranch with horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo events ( When available ) Search Sandy Valley Ranch. Come stay at our beautiful desert hideaway. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mojave Desert and gaze at the sea of stars. We are near Death Valley, Tecopa hotsprings and GoodSprings home of the famous Pioneer Saloon.Enjoy the activities offered on the ranch such as horse rides, cattle drives, rodeo's and cowboy games or just enjoy some quiet time going on hikes or a drink at the oldest Saloon in Nevada only 20 minuets away. A portion of all proceeds go to:The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.

Las Vegas RV Resort

376 sites · RVs10 acres · Las Vegas, NV

With 379 full hook-up sites and accommodations for 100-plus feet, we are overwhelmingly the first choice for RV camping in the Las Vegas region. All sites have 30 and 50 AMP connections for recreational vehicles. And, the only Adult-Only RV Resort in Las Vegas! Choose from standard, deluxe, premium, and XL sites. RVs must be fully self-contained with a grey and black water holding tank and must be 20 years or newer. RESORT AMENITIES & FEATURES Swimming Pool Laundry Clean Restrooms Meeting Room 24 Hour Courtesy Patrol Fitness Center Spa Pet Area General Store

The Alchemist

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Pahrump, NV

Welcome! We are a 2 acre farm and animal sanctuary. Our private land is surrounded by 80 pine trees, We provide a safe place for neglected and abused farm animals. Today we have happy residents including, chickens, ducks, goats, 2 dogs (Oso and Sasha). Our place is very quiet and peaceful, fenced and gated for security. Water, electric and grey water dump available. Barbecue pit, Picnic tables, 1 large community fire pit for large groups and 1 private fire pit at your convinience. Toilet and hot water shower available. Our vital work would not be possible without your help. We welcome you to stay with us as it helps provide shelter, space and veterinary care our animals need. Thank you The Alchemist Activities near by : Hiking Horse back riding Mountain Biking Off roading Mount Charleston 1hr 40min Mountain springs 30min Las Vegas Nv 1hr

Retro Camper with Mountain Views

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Jean, NV

Welcome to your peaceful, desert getaway. This little Retro Camper is only about 35 minutes from the Strip. The property is home to Joshua trees, desert mountain views, beautiful sunsets, and some of the best star gazing around. The camper comes with a full kitchen, a refrigerator, microwave, and gas stove. Dishes and utensils are provided as well as bedding and towels. The bed is about a full size bed, maybe a bit smaller, cozy for two people to sleep in. The camper comes with two space heaters and extra blankets for the winter, an overhead air conditioning unit for the summer. The shower has cold water only and is an outdoor shower. Check out our "Extras" to reserve firewood and a S'mores Kit to enjoy under the stars! Head across the street to the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and live music. Enjoy the beautiful scenery just outside of one of the biggest travel destinations in the USA! IG: @nvretrocamper

Beagletopia Among The Desert

1 site · RV1 acre · Enterprise, NV

Las Vegas has been booming for years. With all this growth, we were able to get our quiet little place before it got too crazy. We enjoy being close to all the happenings with easy access in and out but are more off the beaten path on a quiet road. We are home to the Southern NV Beagle Rescue Foundation, warmly known as Beagletopia. Learn more about this land: Convenient dry camping, self contained RV spot. (generators may be used on your own. no power supply) Open desert views and close to the Las Vegas strip! Las Vegas strip is @ 9 miles, 15 minutes away) We are close to shopping and the Raiders practice stadium. Hike in nearby Red Rock canyon (25 min away) or Mt Charleston (1 hours). Local I-15 highway is only 5 minutes to get to. When you choose to stay with us, you support a local nonprofit dog rescue. You may see some of our local wildlife and wake up to the dogs tracking and starting the day.

99%

(38)

Teddy's Tiny Town

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Pahrump, NV

Solitude: You And Your Family Will Be Our Only Guest During Your Stay! If you are looking for an RV Park alternative, taking a break from dry camping while playing in the desert, too tired to make it to Las Vegas or just passing through on your way to Death Valley, you will enjoy staying with us on our quiet 2.5-acre residential property. We accept car sleepers and tenters We can accommodate up to a 40’ RV/Motorhome/5th Wheel, or Camper, with enough room for your toy hauler, or private vehicle and you can open your awning. Our pull-through site makes it convenient for you to drive in and out—no need to back up. The site has a full hookup with 50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp power. We have treated well water, a septic connection, and an outdoor flushable toilet. ***Your Adventure Awaits: If you love to mountain bike, hike, or go four-wheeling (SXS, OHV, ATV, UTV), we are ideally located to be your base camp while playing in the desert. You can be playing in the dirt within five minutes of our property. Just lock up your camper start your Side by side and go west. ****Attractions and State Parks 90 minutes away or less: Death Valley Park (53 miles) PrairieFire (FORMERLY Front Sight Firearms Training) (23 miles) Discounted rate for Front Sight Members. Just show us your membership card for a $5 refund on your stay. Dumont Dunes (California) OHV Area (58 miles) Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (36 miles) Las Vegas Strip (56 miles) China Ranch Date Farm & Bakery (44 miles) Red Rock Canyon (31 miles) Wallace Canyon (13 Miles) - 4-wheeling pass Carpenter Canyon (12 Miles) - rough, washboard road with a few "high clearance" obstacles. Lovell Canyon (13 Miles) - Best close hiking, easy trails, dogs allowed, paved road access to the trailhead. Five miles to: Downtown Pahrump 3 Major Casinos 3 City Parks 3 Wineries Local Hot Air Balloon Rides Spring Mountain Motorsports Raceway Either way, stay with us. But be warned! Our neighbor's rooster will wake you up just before sunrise.

Booked 2 times

Desert Stars RV Getaway

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Pahrump, NV

🌵 Welcome to your desert oasis under the stars! 🌌 Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the desert at our secluded campsite and RV perfectly located just one hour from Death Valley, half an hour from Tacopa, Ash Meadows, and Dumont Dunes. Experience the ultimate blend of convenience and serenity as you enjoy the best of both worlds - close enough to town for convenience, yet far enough away to witness the mesmerizing night sky in all its glory. 🏕️ Campsite Features: RV that is a comfortable place for 2 and 2 guests on the extra bed. Heated and cozy. This RV has an indoor kitchen that is fully functional. Two refrigerators one inside and one outside in the outside kitchen. 🔥 Private and spacious campsite for your exclusive use 🌟 Unobstructed views of the stunning desert landscape and starry night sky 🏜️ Easy access to nearby attractions like Death Valley, Tacopa, Ash Meadows, and Dumont Dunes 🍽️ Nearby town for dining, shopping, and other conveniences 🚗 Ample parking space for your vehicles 🛠️ Campsite Amenities: 🏞️ Fire pit for cozy evening gatherings and stargazing 🚽 Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities in the RV 🚿 Indoor shower for a refreshing start to your day in the RV 🚰 Fresh water supply for your convenience. 🌅 Activities and Nearby Attractions: 🚴‍♂️ Explore scenic hiking and biking trails in the surrounding desert landscape 🐦 Birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the nearby nature reserves 🌅 Spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the vast desert horizon 🛒 Visit the town for local shopping, dining, and cultural experiences Book your stay now and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the desert. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, our campsite offers the perfect setting for your next outdoor experience. 🌟 Your desert adventure awaits!

100%

(2)

Lazy Ranch Las Vegas

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

Beautiful and unique horse property on 2 acres in north Las Vegas. Has stalls for horses and we have some animals, including a goat and pigs on site. We have full hook ups for RVs. And we also have some bunk houses for additional lodging. Conveniently located in north of Las Vegas. Only 20 minutes from the strip and close to national parks and amazing amenities.

100%

(9)

Lower bristlecone camp / rv / van

1 site · RV1 acre · Las Vegas, NV

LOCATED IN TOIYABE NATIONAL FOREST YOU ARE SURROUNDED BY PICTURESQUE MOUNTAINS, 1000 YEAR OLD BRISTLECONE TREES, WILD HORSES AND GREENERY, A SHORT 40 MINUTE DRIVE FROM LAS VEGAS, THIS PROPERTY IS A HALF AN ACRE AND IS MINUTES FROM THE SKI LODGE AND THE BEST HIKING. COME UP FOR SOME FRESH MOUNTAIN AIR.

Star Hosts in Mount Charleston

98%

(336)

Death Valley Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Beatty, NV

Our 8-acre property is located in the Mojave Desert surrounded by BLM land and nearby Death Valley National Park. One of the first vineyards in Nevada, we grow 5 varietals of grapes and make wine on-site. We offer guests camping, glamping, and an RV site. Camping and Glamping sites are located next to the vines and include picnic tables, shared composting toilets, kitchenette (bbq, gas cooktop), and an outdoor shower in our rustic bathhouse. We also have a community area "The Wine Hall" with ping-pong, refrigerator, microwave, and water cooler. Outside our gates, enjoy biking, hiking, scrambling, and exploring the Amargosa Desert and nearby Skeleton Hills. Nearby attractions include Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (30-minutes) and Death Valley National Park (45-minutes). We have spent a lot of time in the park and are happy to answer questions, make suggestions, or even take you on a tour.

Garden Oasis in the Heart of Vegas

1 site · RV2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

Our property sits on 2 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. It is one of the original homesteads of Las Vegas which we are trying to take back to a homestead. The original owners of the property played a huge hand in the building of Vegas. As we have cleaned up the property treasures of a 100 years ago have been found all over the property. On the property you will find a huge garden out front that you are welcome to pick from. We also have over 50 trees on the property you are welcome to walk around and enjoy. If you find yourself in the duck coop or the chicken coop and find an egg you are welcome to enjoy it. Feel free to enjoy the pool, bbq and outside bathroom which has a shower, and full size washer and dryers. We are a smoke/drug free site please be respectful of this rule and violators will be asked to leave without refund. Because we are a "working hobby farm" you will see some weeds and you may even see a project or two we are working on, feel free to join in but please be understanding that in order for us to improve things it will get little messy and can take time to complete. Also, please check the weather before you book, Vegas if very hot during the summer months, if your rig doesn't have AC you will not be comfortable as night temps can be easily over 100.

Retro Camper with Mountain Views

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Jean, NV

Welcome to your peaceful, desert getaway. This little Retro Camper is only about 35 minutes from the Strip. The property is home to Joshua trees, desert mountain views, beautiful sunsets, and some of the best star gazing around. The camper comes with a full kitchen, a refrigerator, microwave, and gas stove. Dishes and utensils are provided as well as bedding and towels. The bed is about a full size bed, maybe a bit smaller, cozy for two people to sleep in. The camper comes with two space heaters and extra blankets for the winter, an overhead air conditioning unit for the summer. The shower has cold water only and is an outdoor shower. Check out our "Extras" to reserve firewood and a S'mores Kit to enjoy under the stars! Head across the street to the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and live music. Enjoy the beautiful scenery just outside of one of the biggest travel destinations in the USA! IG: @nvretrocamper

The Alchemist

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Pahrump, NV

Welcome! We are a 2 acre farm and animal sanctuary. Our private land is surrounded by 80 pine trees, We provide a safe place for neglected and abused farm animals. Today we have happy residents including, chickens, ducks, goats, 2 dogs (Oso and Sasha). Our place is very quiet and peaceful, fenced and gated for security. Water, electric and grey water dump available. Barbecue pit, Picnic tables, 1 large community fire pit for large groups and 1 private fire pit at your convinience. Toilet and hot water shower available. Our vital work would not be possible without your help. We welcome you to stay with us as it helps provide shelter, space and veterinary care our animals need. Thank you The Alchemist Activities near by : Hiking Horse back riding Mountain Biking Off roading Mount Charleston 1hr 40min Mountain springs 30min Las Vegas Nv 1hr

Mojave Desert Ranch

4 sites · Lodging160 acres · Sandy Valley, NV

We have a unique property with glamping accommodations located in Sandy Valley NV. One hour outside south Las Vegas off of US 15. We operate on a dude ranch with horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo events ( When available ) Search Sandy Valley Ranch. Come stay at our beautiful desert hideaway. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mojave Desert and gaze at the sea of stars. We are near Death Valley, Tecopa hotsprings and GoodSprings home of the famous Pioneer Saloon.Enjoy the activities offered on the ranch such as horse rides, cattle drives, rodeo's and cowboy games or just enjoy some quiet time going on hikes or a drink at the oldest Saloon in Nevada only 20 minuets away. A portion of all proceeds go to:The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.

Dog-friendly getaways

89%

(52)

Las Vegas RV Resort

376 sites · RVs10 acres · Las Vegas, NV

With 379 full hook-up sites and accommodations for 100-plus feet, we are overwhelmingly the first choice for RV camping in the Las Vegas region. All sites have 30 and 50 AMP connections for recreational vehicles. And, the only Adult-Only RV Resort in Las Vegas! Choose from standard, deluxe, premium, and XL sites. RVs must be fully self-contained with a grey and black water holding tank and must be 20 years or newer. RESORT AMENITIES & FEATURES Swimming Pool Laundry Clean Restrooms Meeting Room 24 Hour Courtesy Patrol Fitness Center Spa Pet Area General Store

Jeffry’s Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

We are a local farm and rescue. All funds earned from our spare space go to feeding, maintenance and the care of all of our animals. We are best known for Fergie The Camel. She’s been spotted on national news multiple times for her love of french fries in the In-N-Out drive-through. She lives on property and loves attention! Check her out! https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/have-you-seen/2022/10/06/camel-gets-french-fries-n-out-drive-thru-las-vegas/8194957001/

Garden Oasis in the Heart of Vegas

1 site · RV2 acres · Las Vegas, NV

Our property sits on 2 acres in the heart of Las Vegas. It is one of the original homesteads of Las Vegas which we are trying to take back to a homestead. The original owners of the property played a huge hand in the building of Vegas. As we have cleaned up the property treasures of a 100 years ago have been found all over the property. On the property you will find a huge garden out front that you are welcome to pick from. We also have over 50 trees on the property you are welcome to walk around and enjoy. If you find yourself in the duck coop or the chicken coop and find an egg you are welcome to enjoy it. Feel free to enjoy the pool, bbq and outside bathroom which has a shower, and full size washer and dryers. We are a smoke/drug free site please be respectful of this rule and violators will be asked to leave without refund. Because we are a "working hobby farm" you will see some weeds and you may even see a project or two we are working on, feel free to join in but please be understanding that in order for us to improve things it will get little messy and can take time to complete. Also, please check the weather before you book, Vegas if very hot during the summer months, if your rig doesn't have AC you will not be comfortable as night temps can be easily over 100.

Death Valley Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Beatty, NV

Our 8-acre property is located in the Mojave Desert surrounded by BLM land and nearby Death Valley National Park. One of the first vineyards in Nevada, we grow 5 varietals of grapes and make wine on-site. We offer guests camping, glamping, and an RV site. Camping and Glamping sites are located next to the vines and include picnic tables, shared composting toilets, kitchenette (bbq, gas cooktop), and an outdoor shower in our rustic bathhouse. We also have a community area "The Wine Hall" with ping-pong, refrigerator, microwave, and water cooler. Outside our gates, enjoy biking, hiking, scrambling, and exploring the Amargosa Desert and nearby Skeleton Hills. Nearby attractions include Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (30-minutes) and Death Valley National Park (45-minutes). We have spent a lot of time in the park and are happy to answer questions, make suggestions, or even take you on a tour.

Mojave Desert Ranch

4 sites · Lodging160 acres · Sandy Valley, NV

We have a unique property with glamping accommodations located in Sandy Valley NV. One hour outside south Las Vegas off of US 15. We operate on a dude ranch with horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo events ( When available ) Search Sandy Valley Ranch. Come stay at our beautiful desert hideaway. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mojave Desert and gaze at the sea of stars. We are near Death Valley, Tecopa hotsprings and GoodSprings home of the famous Pioneer Saloon.Enjoy the activities offered on the ranch such as horse rides, cattle drives, rodeo's and cowboy games or just enjoy some quiet time going on hikes or a drink at the oldest Saloon in Nevada only 20 minuets away. A portion of all proceeds go to:The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

91%

(64)

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Mono City, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Mount Charleston guide

Overview

Tucked in a valley at 7,500 feet just east of its namesake peak, the highest in Clark County at 11,918 feet, the small town of Mount Charleston is a gateway to the many outdoor adventures available in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, and offers respite from the desert heat. Recreational opportunities abound, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, off-roading, and rock climbing. In winter, activities include sledding, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing at the Lee Canyon Ski Resort. Camping options vary, ranging from rustic cabins and developed campgrounds to backcountry sites and three wilderness areas for dispersed camping.

Where to go

Red Rock Canyon and Las Vegas

The neon lights and many amenities of Las Vegas are just 40 miles away. Campers looking to spend the night can choose from numerous RV parks, some of which are attached to casinos. Nearby Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers rock climbing on sandstone, a change from the limestone of Mount Charleston, and a seasonal campground for tent and RV campers, along with overnight options in the backcountry and on climbing walls.

Desert National Wildlife Refuge

Located just north of Mount Charleston, the Desert National Wildlife Refuge is the largest wildlife refuge outside of Alaska, with a whopping 1.6 million acres. Look for bighorn sheep and other wildlife, and spend the night at the free primitive campground or take advantage of backcountry and dispersed car camping.

Valley of Fire State Park

Seventy miles east of Mount Charleston, Valley of Fire State Park is known for its surreal landscape of red sandstone canyons and cliffs in the Mojave Desert. Two campgrounds offer tent and RV camping inside the park, including one open year-round. Dispersed camping options can also be found just outside the west and east entrances to the park.

Lake Mead

For water activities, head to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and its 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, and two lakes, Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Hiking and biking trails abound, and the area is dotted with some 900 public tent and RV campsites. Campers can also enjoy vehicle, horseback, shoreline, and backcountry camping.

When to go

Mount Charleston is a popular destination in the summer, when visitors are trying to escape the heat of Las Vegas and the desert, easily 20 degrees warmer. With its high elevation, summer is a pleasant time for outdoor recreation. Winter is also a popular time, with visitors looking for snow play. Visit in late spring for wildflowers and autumn for fall colors.