The best camping near Lahontan State Recreation Area

Named after an ancient lake that once covered most of Nevada, Lahontan State Recreation Area is still a popular location for boating, fishing, camping, and birdwatching on Lake Lahontan. The park is unique in that it not only offers several developed campsites, but also allows for on-beach primitive camping for those who want to set up camp close to the sand. Lahontan is also close to the small towns of Fallon and Dayton, yet far enough away to offer starry skies and quiet days.

• Best for being near the amenities: Silver Springs Beach #7 is the primary campground, open year-round, with restrooms, picnic tables and grills.
• Best for the north side of the lake: The River Campground and Blackbird Point Campground both offer beach camping with bathrooms and water for a fee.
• Best for free camping: The other beaches are open for primitive camping with no amenities. Just park your RV or van right by the water.

1. The Silver Springs Beach #7, Blackbird Point, and River campgrounds as well as the primitive camping areas are available on a first-come, first served basis.
2. While this area is popular on the weekends, the campgrounds never really fill up, so you are bound to find a spot right on the water.

The state park is open year-round with the best time to visit in late spring, early summer, and fall. Mid-summer can be very hot, and during some drought years, water levels can drop significantly. Most winters are quite mild, but this part of Nevada can get some blustery winds that kick up sand.

• Lahontan State Recreation Area is located close to a few other destinations including the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge near Fallon and Fort Churchill State Historic Park. The wildlife refuge and Lahontan allow kayaking, so be sure to bring your boat and paddle. If the Carson River is higher and flowing during non-drought years, you can kayak on the river from Fort Churchill down to Lahontan.
• The nearby town of Fallon is home to the Fallon Naval Air Station and the Navy Fighter Weapons School, or Top Gun. You may be able to see a few fighter jets doing their maneuvers in the sky near the park.
• You would never guess that some of the best food in the area is served at a gas station. The Gourmet Deli at 76, set in Fernley, serves up homemade Iranian and Indian food, as well as homemade pizza and sandwiches.