Basin and Range National Monument
RV Guide
Introduction
If you're looking for an outdoor adventure in Nevada, the Basin and Range National Monument is a must-see. It can be found north of Las Vegas and will take you about two hours to get there by car. It is a Bureau of Land Management property that covers over 704,000 acres.
If you love the outdoors and are looking for a place that has a series of adventurous activities, the Basin and Range National Monument would make a great vacation spot for your next trip. There is a lot to visually take in all around this BLM land. You can walk through the valley, gaze at the mountains or relax on the shores of the nearby rivers.
Some of the more popular activities people enjoy taking part in when they visit the Basin and Range National Monument are camping, hiking, climbing, hunting, and more.
The majority of people who visit this area prefer to camp nearby. Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV or you enjoy primitive camping, there is BLM camping available for everyone.
RV Rentals in Basin and Range National Monument
Transportation
Driving
The Basin and Range National Monument is practically in the middle of nowhere, but that's one of the biggest perks of visiting. You will be hours away from the stressful city life and immersed in the beautiful nature of Nevada.
This BLM land is fairly easy to get to from just about any direction. Since it's in the desert, you won't have to worry about navigating through torrential downpour or blizzards at any time of the year. It is located between 110 and 180 miles north of Las Vegas. It borders Lincoln and Nye counties in Nevada.
If you're coming from the Las Vegas area, you can take Interstate 15 north to Highway 93. It is important to note that you may want to make sure you have a full tank of gas, as the closer you get to the Basin and Range National Monument, the fewer gas stations there are.
There are road signs leading you to the park and the majority of the roads are not paved. You also have the option of taking a driving tour around the entirety of the Basin and Range National Monument.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Basin and Range National Monument
Campsites in Basin and Range National Monument
First-come first-served
Cherry Creek Campground
Cherry Creek Campground is near Quinn Canyon Wilderness. It's a great RV camping spot for those looking to experience an underdeveloped and rugged camping trip. One thing to note about this camping area is that it is usually only open from May through September every year, depending on the weather. This specific campground allows trailers and RVs up to 20 feet in length.
There are four campsites available to use on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no hook-ups or modern amenities such as flush toilets or showers available for campers. It is what is considered a dry camping experience. That being said, there is a pit toilet available for use.
This is a great campground for people who really want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and get away from technology. Be sure to check online before your trip for any alerts for weather, hunting, road closures and more.
Hot Creek Campground
Hot Creek Campground, also called Dave Deacon Campground, is located in Nye County and is best for dispersed camping. If you're wanting to get away into nature, have your own privacy, yet still have some of the modern amenities you have daily, this may be the campground for you when visiting Basin and Range National Monument. Campers will be able to enjoy camping here all year-round.
It's situated between beautiful rolling hills and mountains. This campground allows pets, unlike Cherry Creek. There is potable water available, along with flush toilets. Hot Creek Campground allows fires, has picnic tables and there is even Wi-Fi available.
There are about 20 campsites available for any size trailer or RV, and of course, tents. One of the best things about Hot Creek Campground is that it is free to stay there. These campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pattersons Pass Campground
If you're looking for BLM camping in Nevada, Pattersons Pass Campground is a great option. There are 12 campsites available for RV and tent campers alike. The entire campground has gravel terrain, so if you're camping in a tent, you may want to bring padding to sleep on.
You can stay for up to 14 days at Pattersons Pass Campground. If you're bringing a trailer or camping in an RV, it's important to know that there is a length maximum of 38 feet. This spot is considered dry camping, meaning there are no hook-ups or potable water.
It is a beautiful area to park your RV and camp for a few days under the bright stars of Nevada. There are vault restrooms available for the camper's convenience. This BLM campground also provides picnic tables, fire rings, pull-through sites and a recreational trail to its visitors. Camping spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Seasonal activities in Basin and Range National Monument
In-Season
Hiking
When it comes to popular activities to take part in at the Basin and Range National Monument, hiking is definitely at the top of that list. There are a plethora of amazing trails to choose from for visitors to take advantage of.
Some trails have smooth, gravel terrain without much incline, which is perfect for the more relaxed visitor. Meanwhile, there are also more vigorous trails that have steep slopes that are perfect for those looking to get into an intense workout.
Climbing
Rock climbing is another popular activity that takes place at the Basin and Range National Monument. There are a ton of huge rock formations that provide a great foundation to rock climb on. Once you reach the top, you will have a beautiful view of the mountains, valleys, and plenty of cacti.
There are no nearby supply stores, which makes it vital to bring your own equipment. Since climbing is a more dangerous activity, it's best to make sure you have a bit of practice in before climbing at the Basin and Range National Monument.
Biking
Whether you're looking to get in some cardio or you're more into a relaxed, casual ride through the Basin and Range National Monument, there is plenty of land area for you to bike on. Just like climbing, there isn't a nearby shop that rents bicycles, so be sure to pack yours onto the RV before leaving for this trip.
The terrain varies quite a bit, though it is all gravel. Some people may enjoy extreme biking on steep slopes at high speeds, while others can bike along straight and flat paths, free of large rocks or obstructions.
Off-Season
Star Gazing
Easily one of the best things about getting out in the desert of Nevada is the ability to see an abundance of stars in the night sky. This is one of the reasons why camping is so popular near the Basin and Range National Monument. Star-gazing can be a fun activity to do with your whole family, or a romantic way to spend some time with your partner.
This area is known for being an international dark sky park to go star-gazing. This means that due to the lack of light and pollution, the stars will appear brighter and there will be many more of them.
Hunting
If you have the proper licensing, you'll be able to take advantage of the hunting grounds of the Basin and Range National Monument. There are a variety of animals to see in the area, including a variety of elk and deer during the winter months.
You may also see smaller animals such as pygmy rabbits, bighorn sheep, beaver, and porcupine. With there being multiple rivers in the area, you are more than welcome to fish as well.
Photography
There aren't many other places in the United States where you are surrounded by eight distinct mountain ranges. That, along with the other types of scenery in the area makes the Basin and Range National Monument a stunning place to photograph.
There are massive natural arches made of rock that provide a great background for a family photo. You might be lucky enough to photograph some of the wild animals and unique cacti around the area as well!
