Desert Creek Boondocking In Gardnerville, Nevada – Camping Guide

by John Rodgers / Thursday, July 24, 2025 / Published in Nevada Free, Free Camping

Desert Creek Boondocking
In Gardnerville, Nevada
Camping Guide

ADDRESS
Gardnerville, Nevada GPS: 38.62139, -119.34 Elevation: 6269′
MANAGEMENT
Public – USDA Forest Service This is a FREE campsite.

Previous Reviews:

Desert Creek Boondocking: A remote camping experience in Nevada, located on Desert Creek. The road in is Dirt. Partial shade provided in campground by Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines. Fishing in Desert Creek for stocked rainbow, brown and brook trout. ATV users can enjoy miles of backroads in this area. No trash Service -pack out your trash Fishing, hiking, and off-highway vehicle opportunities. Four wheel drive not needed, but creek crossings not recommended in early or late summer season.

About This Location

Looking for a quiet place to camp near Gardnerville? Desert Creek boondocking area is a pretty solid option for boondocking, especially if you like things simple.

The Desert Creek boondocking spots are all about dispersed camping—minimal amenities, no hookups, just you and the outdoors. It’s ideal for dry camping and gives you a chance to really connect with nature, minus all the distractions.

Desert Creek boondocking spots sit about 14 miles south of Gardnerville, right off Desert Creek Road (FR-027). Shade comes courtesy of Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines, which is honestly a relief in the summer.

You’ll find around six spaces that can fit trailers and RVs, plus a dozen more for tents and cars. It’s not huge, but it rarely feels crowded.

Desert Creek boondocking is free, which is kind of rare these days for a developed site. No need to worry about paying for a spot here.

There are designated areas for tents, trailers, and RVs, and none of them require reservations or fees. Just a heads-up: there’s no trash service, so you’ll have to pack out all your garbage.

There are fire pits and plenty of firewood, but you won’t find water or electrical hookups, so bring what you need.

The road into the Desert Creek boondocking spots can be rough, especially if you’re driving something big. Take it slow and you should be fine, but it’s not the place for rushing.

If you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and soak up some peace and quiet, this place is a pretty safe bet. Just don’t forget to follow Leave No Trace—nobody likes a trashed campsite.

Directions

Getting to Desert Creek Boondocking in Gardnerville, Nevada isn’t too complicated, but you’ll want to pay attention to a couple of turns. Start by heading toward the town of Wellington.

From Wellington, take National Forest Development Road 027, which is also called Desert Creek Road. The campground is about 14 miles south of Wellington, so it’s not a quick jaunt.

If you’re coming from Gardnerville, it’s a straight shot. Just use the main highways to reach Wellington, then look for signs pointing toward Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Desert Creek Road.

The road is okay for most vehicles, though it can get a bit rough in places. If you’re hauling an RV or trailer, just plan for a slower drive and keep an eye on the road.

For directions and a map, Google Maps or MapQuest will do the trick. Just enter Gardnerville or Wellington as your starting point and Desert Creek Campground as your end goal.

If you get stuck or need more details, you can always call the campground office at (775) 331-6444 for help. They’re usually pretty helpful.