Unless you are a member of the Paiute Nation, you will need to obtain a tribal permit to camp. If you plan to boat or fish, you should also obtain tribal boating and fishing permits as well. Carry the permits with you and be prepared to prove that they are yours by writing, if and when asked, your name for comparison with the signatures on your permits. Camping permits are available on a daily, weekly or 10-day basis.
Camping is permitted on the west side of Pyramid Lake, except where signage prohibits; the east side of the lake is reserved for day use only. Sutcliffe Marina Beach and Long Beach on the western shore are designated as family beaches and prohibit alcoholic beverages. Developed campgrounds in the area include Marina RV Park at Sutcliffe and two RV parks in Wadsworth, approximately 14 miles from the nearest shore. At I-80 Smokeshop Campground and Big Bend RV Park you can enjoy amenities that include hot showers and RV sites with full hookups. An onsite store at the I-80 Smokeshop Campground carries a full line of groceries, fuel, propane and other necessities. Big Bend RV Park has cable TV, WiFi and laundry facilities, with horse boarding available onsite. Dogs are not allowed at the I-80 Smokeshop Campground.
With the exception of the I-80 Smokeshop Campground, your dog may join you at your campsite at Pyramid Lake. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, however, and not engage in activity that is noisy or endangers other pets or people. You may build a campfire at your lakeside campsite as long as it is contained in a camp stove, fire pan or fire pit. Do not leave your fire unattended and be sure it is fully extinguished before you leave. You may not pick plants on the reservation, including wild berries, flowers or weeds, and you cannot kill or disturb any living creature, including insects.
Given the desert climate and the fact that little shade is available at Pyramid Lake, you should take proper precautions, including the wearing of UV-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a shade structure to help prevent your tent from getting uncomfortably hot in the midday sun. Keep your body hydrated to prevent succumbing to heat sickness, as summer temperatures can rise into the 90s Fahrenheit during the day and remain in the 70s Fahrenheit at night. Winter temperatures are mild, however, with both days and nights averaging in the 40-degree Fahrenheit range.
