How much does camping cost at Hilltop?

Camping fees at Hilltop are $19 - $67/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hilltop first-come first-served or reservation?

Hilltop accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hilltop before I book?

Yes! Hilltop has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hilltop?

Hilltop is open May 15 to November 03. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hilltop?

Hilltop does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Hilltop?

Cell phone service at Hilltop is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Hilltop have?

Hilltop has 35 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hilltop?

Yes, pets are allowed at Hilltop. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Hilltop?

Hilltop offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Hilltop

Q: Can I have a campfire at Hilltop?

Fire policies at Hilltop: No water available on site. Please bring all the water you will need for your stay. This includes water for drinking, washing, cleaning, and dousing fires.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.28

371 reviews

Top 15% in NVSummer

CReport Card

Great for Groups

Featured in:Desert Camping Nevada RV Camping Nevada Mountain Camping Nevada +11 more

Quick Facts

8,400 ft

Price

$19 - $67/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,400 ft

Price

$19 - $67/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Hilltop

$19.00 - $67.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $45.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-TRIPLE: $67.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $23.00; Standard Double S&P: $45.00; Standard S&P:...

Group Site Fee$45.00

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Provider

702-872-5486null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Hilltop

36.3099, -115.6067

Nearby places

Las Vegas: approximately 40 miles or about 45 minutes by car

Weather at Hilltop

Current alerts(6)

Campsite must be occupied first night of reservation. Contact host or employee if you do not plan to stay any other night of reservation after first night.
Click here for more info about the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests
Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Odd numbered sites are reservable. Even numbered sites are first-come, first-served.

Best Time to Camp at Hilltop

Best season: summer. Summer at Hilltop is the best time to visit because the campground becomes a cool alpine refuge from Las Vegas heat, with daytime highs typically in the mid-60s to mid-80s°F (about 65–85°F) and nighttime temps dropping into the 40s–50s°F. This is peak season for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing, with most facilities open and well-maintained roads providing easy access. Expect more visitors on summer weekends, and plan for possible afternoon thunderstorms during July–Aug; Peak months: July, June, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in NV

Best season—cool alpine refuge from Las Vegas heat; daytime highs in mid‑60s to mid‑80s°F.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to November 03. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 15 to November 3.

About Hilltop

Hilltop sits at 8,400 feet in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, about an hour northwest of Las Vegas. This high-elevation alpine campground offers a cool summer escape with spacious sites, fire rings, and picnic tables spread across tent, RV, and primitive areas. Hikers and mountain bikers use it as a base for exploring surrounding trails, and the elevation delivers clear stargazing and relief from desert heat.

Hilltop Campground caters to primitive camping and tent camping and offers sites for group and RV camping within size limitations.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer at Hilltop is the best time to visit because the campground becomes a cool alpine refuge from Las Vegas heat, with daytime highs typically in the mid-60s to mid-80s°F (about 65–85°F) and nighttime temps dropping into the 40s–50s°F. This is peak season for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing, with most facilities open and well-maintained roads providing easy access. Expect more visitors on summer weekends, and plan for possible afternoon thunderstorms during July–Aug; Peak months: July, June, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation8400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryJuniper, mountain mahogany, and ponderosa pines create a high-desert forest with sweeping views of the Mojave Desert below. The elevation gain from the valley floor produces dramatic vistas in all directions. Trees provide partial shade at some sites, though the real draw is the expansive panorama. Sunrise lights up the surrounding peaks, and the landscape shifts throughout the day as shadows move across the desert. The area supports rare species, including ancient Bristlecone pines and the Mount Charleston blue butterfly, found nowhere else on Earth.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at Hilltop Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Spring Mountains Visitor Center nearby offers guided hikes and educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of up to 14 days within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Single sites accommodate up to 8 guests
double sites accommodate up to 16 guests.

Groups

Group sites accommodate up to 16 people and feature double picnic tables. Reviews emphasize the spaciousness and suitability for larger groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or app.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and campsites are provided. Some campsites require climbing stairs from the parking spur.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size from single (accommodating up to 8 people) to double sites (accommodating up to 16 people).

PrivacyThe privacy level varies significantly by site. Some sites are separated by trees offering greater privacy, while others are closer together, particularly in first-come, first-served spots.

Total Campsites35 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy, site 33 is considered one of the best. Site 25 offers decent shade around the tent pad.

Best CampsitesSite 23 offers excellent views. Sites separated by trees provide better privacy than the closer-together first-come, first-served spots.

Need help booking Hilltop?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Hilltop Campground offers a range of amenities that provide comfort despite its primitive camping nature. Key features include picnic tables, campfire rings, grills, accessible vault toilets, paved roads, and paved parking spurs. Trash collection services are provided, and the absence of water facilities on-site demands that campers bring their own water for drinking, washing, and dousing fires.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Hilltop

Hilltop Campground provides numerous recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and scenic driving. Activities like horseback riding and guided hikes are available nearby.

Hiking4.0/5

Trails abound; North Loop–Mt. Charleston trail is only 1/4 mile from the campground.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing is a highlight; mentions include rare Mount Charleston blue butterfly.

Biking3.5/5

Two nearby trails allow mountain biking; campground used as mountain‑bike base.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Dramatic vistas, panoramic Mojave views, wildlife and strong stargazing opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyNo water available on site. Please bring all the water you will need for your stay. This includes water for drinking, washing, cleaning, and dousing fires.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection services are provided on-site, with large trash cans available near campsites.

Cell CoverageCell service is described as spotty but functional in certain areas, with T-mobile service reportedly consistent enough for hotspot use. Reviewers highlight that service is better here compared to other campgrounds in the region.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Hilltop

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From Booking Sources

4.3

371 reviews

Satisfactory

Hilltop is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, reviews are mixed. Positive feedback highlights the stunning views, clean campsites, and excellent design. Negative themes include poor vault toilet maintenance, noise disturbances from neighboring campers, and the lack of on-site water.

Review Summaries

Based on 371 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 371 reviews.

Site 029Loved
Site 029 receives strong praise for its spaciousness and clean amenities.
Site 001Mentioned
Site 001 is criticized for traffic congestion and a lack of privacy.

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praise the campground's elevation (8,400 feet), cool temperatures, and breathtaking views. Others highlight the clean and spacious campsites, the presence of picnic tables and fire...

Based on 371 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include vault toilet cleanliness, fly infestations, and noise disturbances from other campers. Several users expressed frustration over the lack of on-site water and poor...

Based on 371 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water and prepare for windy conditions at night. A canopy or tie downs for tents are recommended due to strong winds. Users advise booking in advance to avoid competition for...

Based on 371 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is favored for its cooler temperatures compared to Las Vegas. Fall reviews highlight the rapid drop in temperatures after sunset, requiring warmer clothing. Spring and early summer appear less...

Based on 371 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Elevation is about 8,400 feet so it stays so nice and cool and the views are fantastic." - Christie Davis-KRAEMER 2. "Bathrooms were clean, and the Rangers were all more than pleasant." - Michael...

Based on 371 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are accessible, but staircases at certain sites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Based on 371 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are welcomed but must be on leashes at all times. This policy makes the campground safer for both pets and other campers.

Based on 371 reviews

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Hilltop

$19.00 - $67.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $45.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-TRIPLE: $67.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $23.00; Standard Double S&P: $45.00; Standard S&P:...

Group Site Fee$45.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

702-872-5486null

Go if

You want cool summer temperatures, mountain scenery, and trail access within an hour of Las Vegas.

Skip if

You need onsite water or consistently maintained vault toilets during busy weekends.

Nearby Campgrounds

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters

Mahogany Grove sits at 8,300 feet in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, an hour northwest of Las Vegas with views of Mummy Mountain. This small, high-elevation campground operated by the Forest Service offers spacious sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Summer brings mid-60s to upper-70s daytime temperatures and cool nights, drawing campers for mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing under dark skies.

Hilltop

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Hilltop

Campground Map

Weather at Hilltop

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Hilltop

Planning Tips

About Hilltop

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Hilltop?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Hilltop

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Hilltop

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Hilltop

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Hilltop?

Amenities available

Things to do at Hilltop

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns