Lookout Campground

About

Lookout Campground is a hidden gem located on the California/Nevada border just west of Reno. Sitting at 6,770 feet in a large aspen grove surrounded by pine and fir forest, this remote campground offers well-spaced sites that afford visitors plenty of privacy. The campground has 17 first-come, first-served sites including two double sites, plus one reservable group picnic area that can accommodate up to 100 people. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, grill, and tent pad. The campground has four vault toilets and trash service, but no potable water is available. Trailers and RVs are limited to 15 feet, though two sites can accommodate lengths up to 30 feet. A free California campfire permit from CalFire is required for any campfire or stove use. Adjacent to the campground is Crystal Peak, accessible by vehicle or a short hike. The nearby Crystal Mine on FR 033 is popular for rockhounding, with a limit of one 5-lb bucket per week for personal use. The area also offers excellent opportunities for off-highway vehicle recreation, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and hunting. Dog Valley and Peavine Mountain are nearby OHV destinations, and the American Discovery Trail passes through the area.

Directions

From Truckee, CA: Travel east on I-80, take Exit 2 toward Verdi, NV. Turn right on 3rd St./US 40, travel 1 mile, then turn left on Bridge St. From Reno, NV: Travel west on I-80, take Exit 5 toward Verdi/State Route 425, stay on Route 425 for 2.5 miles, turn right on Bridge St. Note: Bridge Street has two one-lane bridges with a maximum height of 13 feet. Travel 0.6 miles on Bridge St, turn right on Dog Valley Road which becomes dirt forest road 002. Travel approximately 7-9 miles following signs to the campground. The road can be rough with washboards; 2WD is possible but low-clearance vehicles are not recommended.