A-frames near Virginia City with hiking
Historic mining town attractions and desert scenery await campers near Virginia City.
- Virginia City
Popular camping styles for Virginia City
A-frames near Virginia City with hiking guide
Overview
Take a trip back in time in Virginia City—site of the largest silver strike in U.S. history. This small town is full of sunny afternoons, desert sunsets, and old west attractions, including the celebrated Chollar Mine. After exploring underground history, campers can settle down at campsites and RV parks with full restrooms, dog parks, nearby restaurants, and supply shops. Then, swim, fish, hike, and camp at Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park or Dayton State Park, where Nevada wildlife roams the terrain and soars the sky. Luxury cabins near Lake Tahoe are available for camping with convenience. They come fully furnished and are loaded with amenities like modern kitchens and private boat launches.
Where to go
Chollar Mine
Chollar Mine represents one of the richest silver strikes in U.S. history. A leading mine on the Comstock, it was first worked back in 1859 and produced more than $17 million in silver and gold throughout its active history. Today, campers can take a day trip to the mine and enjoy tours with special exhibits that show how early miners operated the site. Nearby RV parks and private campgrounds give campers of all kinds a convenient spot to rest as many include restrooms and showers.
Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park
Less than an hour’s drive from Virginia City, Lake Tahoe-Nevada State Park is popular for its beaches, lake activities, and winter sports. Enjoy boating, hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking in warmer months. During winter, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and snowboarding remain favorite pastimes. The best places for fishing in the park are Zephyr Cove or nearby Rubicon Point, and hikers will want to check out Flume Trail for its great views. The park and surrounding area feature campsites and RV parks with basic amenities like electricity and water hookups. Private winter chalet rentals are also available for cozy fireside retreats after a day of skiing.
Dayton State Park
With its views of Carson River, Dayton State Park is a well-known destination for hiking and fishing. The park is just a 20-minute drive from Virginia City. Its 10 on-site campgrounds are available for RVs or tent camping and many of the campsites offer dump stations, restrooms and BBQs. Campers may see resident wildlife, such as foxes and porcupines while exploring the park for its geocaches—a fun and interactive way for campers to engage with the beautiful terrain.
When to go
Temperatures in Virginia City range from from the mid-nineties in summer to winter lows under 10°F. Spring and fall tend to be more temperate for visitors who prefer to avoid the extreme weather. Popular RV parks and campgrounds remain open to campers year-round for sunny summertime lakeside retreats or snowy skiing escapades.
