The best camping near Dayton State Park

A small enclave just below the Virginia Range, Dayton, Nevada, features 1860s mining history and a state park in the center of town. Once an important commercial hub for the historic Comstock Lode in nearby Virginia City, the on-site Rock Point Mill once processed ore for the mines and is now open for tours. Dayton today draws campers to its treed day-use areas and grassy campsites—the sole Dayton State Park campground features 10 campsites, each with picnic tables and barbecues. Fresh water, restrooms with flush toilets, and a dump station are available. The sites are shaded by the park’s massive cottonwood trees with easy access to the Carson River as well as the amenities in Dayton.

1. The Dayton State Park campground does not accept reservations and all the sites are first-come, first-served.
2. Because of its proximity to Dayton and quick access off Highway 50, Dayton campsites can fill up quickly on the weekends. Arriving during the week or a day or two before the weekend gives you a better chance to snag a site.

Any time is a good time to head to this high desert area. Fall is best, when the trees turn their golden colors, while spring offers the best water flow in the Carson River. Summers can be hot, but there is plenty of shade at Dayton State Park. Winters can be mild, but an occasional cold wind can blow hard through the canyon.

• Dayton is just a few miles from famous Virginia City in the foothills above town. Virginia City is a historic mining town with many original buildings still intact, including the supposedly haunted Washoe Club, which has been featured on various Travel Channel programs. Virginia City also has some fun bars, restaurants, and shops.
• For a little more history, check out Dayton’s historic downtown. It’s only a few blocks, but features original buildings such as the historic Pony Express station. There is also some fun public art, a few restaurants, and walkable streets.
• Dayton is home to a famous micronation. The Republic of Molossia is one of the smallest independent nations on earth at only 11.3 acres. It boasts its own Navy, space program, bank, measurement system, and time zone. Molossia is open for tours during several spring weekends each year.