BLM Boondocking In Spanish Springs, Nevada – Guide & Directions

by John Rodgers / Sunday, July 20, 2025 / Published in Nevada Free, Free Camping

BLM Boondocking
In Spanish Springs, Nevada
Guide & Directions

ADDRESS
Spanish Springs, Nevada GPS: 39.58841, -119.66657 Elevation: 4639′
MANAGEMENT
Public – Bureau of Land Management (Official) This is a FREE campsite.

Previous Reviews:

BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs: BLM land by Golden Eagle park. Popular with target shooters, but usually quite at night. Sparks BLM is open year round. You may stay 14 days at BLM of Sparks. Very stark but pretty area. Golden Eagle park keeps water on through winter (at least in some buildings, didn’t check them all) a rarity in Reno.

About This Location

If you’re searching for a quiet, free camping spot near Reno, BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, Nevada, is honestly a solid choice. The Bureau of Land Management keeps this area open year-round, and you can stay for up to 14 days on public land. The spot near Golden Eagle Park is rugged and natural, with plenty of open sky and not much fuss.

BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, north of Sparks is a favorite for dispersed camping, but heads up—the roads are rocky and sometimes riddled with puddle-potholes. Be ready for a bit of an off-road adventure. It’s a good place if you want to dodge crowded campgrounds and just soak in some peace and quiet under the stars.

You won’t find any fancy amenities at BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, so it’s all about being self-sufficient. Bring everything you need and plan to take everything back out with you. Spanish Springs is stark, dry, and peaceful—a real break from the city’s noise.

BLM Boondocking In Spanish Springs, Nevada

Looking for free camping near Reno? Spanish Springs has some excellent boondocking options on BLM land. This BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs spot, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, is open all year for dispersed camping.

You can stay up to 14 days before you’ll need to move at least 25 miles away. It’s all primitive camping—no hookups, no developed campgrounds, just you and the desert. The ground is rocky, and the roads can get a bit messy after rain, so having a vehicle with decent clearance is honestly pretty important.

Most folks are either car camping or pitching a tent in these wide-open spaces. Popular spots include the land north of Sparks and the BLM Hills off Pyramid. Both offer plenty of room to spread out, though you might hear some target shooting during the day.

When you’re camping at BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, following the Leave No Trace principles is key. Pack everything out, keep your campfire small and safe, and try not to bug the wildlife or your fellow campers.

Spanish Springs is great for anyone who wants to experience Nevada boondocking without paying a dime. It’s best for people who are comfortable roughing it and just want to be out in nature.

Popular Outdoor Activities And Nearby Attractions

BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, Nevada, puts you close to all sorts of outdoor fun. Hiking and backpacking are probably the top ways to explore the rugged backcountry here. There are trails winding through valleys, hills, and canyons, and you’ll likely spot some wildlife if you keep your eyes open.

If you’re into off-highway vehicles (OHV), the rocky dirt roads around here are perfect for a day of riding. These paths let you really get up close and personal with the desert scenery. Mountain biking is also an option, with routes for different skill levels, though some are pretty rough.

Fishing is available at nearby lakes and reservoirs. The Nevada Department of Wildlife manages these spots, so you’ve got a shot at catching trout and a few other species if you’re patient.

History buffs can check out local ghost towns and petroglyphs. These ancient rock carvings tell part of the region’s story, and honestly, they’re just cool to see. Wilson Canyon and the Winnemucca Sand Dunes are also worth a visit if you’re up for a little climbing or exploring.

Horseback riding is another way to take in the wide-open spaces. The BLM land has plenty of trails, and if you’re into hunting, some areas allow it as long as you follow the rules.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area isn’t too far away if you’re craving some water-based activities. You might even spot wild horses out there, which is always a bonus.

There are also national monuments nearby, plus opportunities for rock climbing or just sitting back and soaking in the desert views. Spanish Springs gives you a lot of ways to get outside and connect with both nature and a bit of history.

Directions

To get to the BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, Nevada, start by heading north from Sparks on Pyramid Highway. Watch for the turnoff near Golden Eagle Park—it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.

The road in is pretty rocky and tends to collect puddles, so take it slow, especially after a rainstorm. The GPS coordinates you’ll want are 39.58841, -119.66657. Plug those into your phone or GPS and you’ll find it without much trouble.

If you’re coming from the south on Pyramid Highway, the easiest turnaround spot is near Walmart in Sparks. Just a heads-up, though—overnight parking isn’t allowed there.

Once you’re on BLM land, you can set up camp for free for up to 14 days. After that, you’ll need to move at least 25 miles away, so keep that in mind.

Bring a sturdy vehicle because the roads are steep, rocky, and can get muddy if it’s been raining. Good clearance is honestly a must if you don’t want to get stuck.

There aren’t any developed facilities, so make sure you stock up on water and supplies before heading out. Plan for dry camping—no hookups, no services, just you and the desert.

You’ll find some nice quiet BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs spots to settle in, though during the day, don’t be surprised if you hear some target shooting nearby. Nights, on the other hand, tend to be pretty peaceful.

Just follow the local rules and respect the land, and you should have a safe, enjoyable stay out here in Spanish Springs.

Vehicle Access And Pricing

You can reach BLM boondocking in Spanish Springs, Nevada, by taking on some pretty rocky, uneven dirt roads. It’s not exactly a smooth cruise—expect puddle-potholes and the occasional jarring bump along the way. If you’re driving anything less than a high-clearance vehicle or an off-road RV, you might want to think twice.

There’s no fee for camping on BLM land out here, which is honestly a huge plus. Free overnight RV parking is available, and you won’t need to fuss with reservations or permits. You can stay for up to 14 days, but after that, you’ll need to pack up and move at least 25 miles to snag a new spot.

Don’t expect to find dump stations or water hookups on site. Bring your own water—seriously, don’t skimp—and figure out your waste disposal plan ahead of time. Nearby towns usually have dump stations, but it’s smart to plan your trips so you’re not caught off guard.

Tips:

Use a truck or RV that can handle rough roads, or you might regret it.
Stock up on water, because you won’t find any out there.
Pack out all your trash and waste; nobody wants to stumble on your leftovers.
Be ready for a dry camp—amenities are basically nonexistent.

This area’s popular for quiet camping and offers a ton of open space. It’s best for folks who are self-sufficient and looking for a primitive experience without any surprise costs.