The best camping near Kershaw-Ryan State Park

Located just outside the town of Caliente in southeast Nevada, Kershaw-Ryan State Park is a lush oasis that stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. One of the first four state parks established in Nevada, the park is home to CCC-built campsites, picnic tables, restrooms, and a wading pool, along with volleyball, horseshoe pits, and a children’s play area. Natural springs feed an abundance of trees and wild grape vines that climb up the 700-foot canyon walls. Hiking and mountain biking trails lead to scenic overlooks and views of Rainbow Canyon, which offers rock climbing. One campground is available and offers sites for tent and RV camping (with partial hookups).

The Kershaw-Ryan Campground offers 16 sites for tents and RVs, with shade ramadas, picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and a dump station

• Best for RVs: A few RV sites are available and offer 30 and 50 amp power, along with water hookups.
• Best for larger rigs: Campsites located on the outside of the campground loop offer curbside parking, with no need to pull in or back out.
• Best for accessibility: The campground offers one ADA-friendly campsite.

1. All campsites are first-come first-served, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day.
2. Visit during the week and during off-peak and non-holiday times if your plans are flexible.
3. Winter camping is an option for those in RVs or campers.

The park is open year-round. Summers can be hot and afternoon thunderstorms are a regular occurrence during the monsoon season of July and August, and can cause flash floods. Plan hikes for the morning or evening. Hikers should also look out for rattlesnakes over the summer. Winters can be cold, and snow is possible in December and January, which could impact road and other access.

• There are no lifeguards on duty at the wading pool; swim at your own risk.
• Do not gather firewood; fires must be contained within the provided grills.
• Bring your own volleyball and horseshoes to use the nets and pits.
• Pets are welcome but must be kept on a six-foot leash.
• Cell service is limited in the park—wifi is available for purchase.