In 1986, Larry Harvey and Jerry James burned a wooden effigy in San Francisco. That event culminated in the burning of the “Man”, effectively setting in stone the Burning Man. This one-of-a-kind gathering is held annually at Black Rock City, a temporary city created just for the event. Every year, thousands of participants from around the globe converge in western United States to attend the event and see the effigy burn down. For many participants, the event is their chance to express themselves in radical ways and to prove that camping can be done in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. Also, it has become a popular go-to for those who want a different kind of experience. Those who want to immerse themselves in the activities during the gathering are encouraged to camp out at Black Rock City. Most participants bring their own RVs for the event. Those who are planning to rent an RV are spoiled for choice with many rentals around the area. Read on for the best RV and campervan rentals for Burning Man.
1. Wadsworth, Nevada
Wadsworth, Nevada is only a stone’s throw away from Black Rock Desert. For many participants of Burning Man, this census-designated place is the first stopover area after a long drive on Interstate 80. There are many small cafeterias here for those stopping by. This place is only 34 miles (55 kilometers) from the nearest airport — Reno-Tahoe International Airport — making it a superb option for first-time visitors planning to get an RV for Burning Man. Those who have plenty of time to kill must-visit Wadsworth Union Church, which is one of the places listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Fun fact: Academy Award-winning director John Ford shot his masterpiece, The Iron Horse, in Wadsworth.
RV rentals for Wadsworth, Nevada
2. Pyramid Lake, Nevada
One of the largest remnants of the ancient Lake Lahontan, Pyramid Lake features large pyramid-like formations that explain the name. This lake is a popular spot for campers, especially those going to Burning Man. It’s not that hard to see why – those with RVs will see the sign going to the lake if they take Highway 447. The lake itself is also near Pauite Reservation, home of the Pauite tribe. It is also a few minutes’ drive from Wadsworth, making it super accessible for campers who wanted to fully explore the area near the Black Rock Desert.
RV rentals for Pyramid Lake, Nevada
3. Lovelock, Nevada
Farther away to the south of Black Rock Desert is the seat of Pershing County, Lovelock. This town got its name from one of the early settlers in the area, George Lovelock. Its name is also a reference to a popular tourist destination in town: Lover’s Lock Plaza. Here, lovebirds affirm their commitment to one another by attaching a padlock onto the chains of the green posts. The plaza is located beside the historic Pershing County Court House. RV campers and participants of Burning Man should also visit and order a few drinks at the historic Longhorn Bar located beside West Broadway. This town is definitely a must-visit since it is only a two-hour drive to Black Rock Desert.
RV rentals for Lovelock, Nevada
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Winnemucca, Nevada
Burning Man participants coming from US Route 95 will arrive at Winnemucca, Nevada before heading out to Interstate 80. This little town is a popular stopover with lots of dining areas, pubs, and attractions to see here. One such attraction is Buckaroo Hall of Fame Museum, a place that commemorates Buckaroo culture and celebrates a piece of Nevada’s history. Those intrigued by the town’s history can pay a visit to Humboldt Museum. RV rentals around the area are plentiful so Burning Man participants coming from the north and are planning to get an RV don’t have to look any farther than Winnemucca.
RV rentals for Winnemucca, Nevada
5. Reno, Nevada
Reno, Nevada is a familiar place for participants of Burning Man. The city’s Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the gathering point for organizers and participants before heading out to Black Rock Desert. As such, Burning Man has also become a major source of income for the city every year. Several casinos in the city serve to entertain participants before heading out for the event. Since this is a big city in Nevada, there are many RV rental options in the area that cater specifically to event participants. Combined with its proximity to Black Rock Desert, it’s no wonder why Reno is a popular layover every Burning Man season.
RV rentals for Reno, Nevada
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
The city of Las Vegas, Nevada, is nicknamed \“Sin City\” for a reason. Lots of entertainment options exist within the city, with the famous options being the casinos and gambling areas. A multitude of theme parks caters to visitors who are up for some adventure. And true to its moniker, one can indulge non-stop on the plethora of buffets within the city. RV rentals in the city are plentiful too. Travelers for the annual Burning Man event can rent an RV from the city and enjoy a one-of-a-kind road trip throughout Nevada. After all, it’s only a 10-hour drive from the city to Black Rock Desert.
RV rentals for Las Vegas, Nevada
7. Los Angeles, California
Why not start your sojourn to Burning Man on a high note? Los Angeles, California offers many RV rentals for Burning Man. Plus, the city is a melting pot of different cultures and attractions. For starters, there’s the Hollywood neighborhood where one can find the star-studded Walk of Fame and the historic TCL Chinese Theater. Another major attraction within the city is Griffith Observatory, the place where one can view Los Angeles’ skyline from afar. There are also several restaurants and pubs in the area that cater to different whims and needs. Simply put, a trip to Burning Man is much more fun from Los Angeles. Participants who begin their journey from LA to Black Rock Desert will be astounded by the views and landmarks furnished by an 11-hour road trip.
RV rentals for Los Angeles, California
8. Sacramento, California
Further up north from Los Angeles is the city of Sacramento. This is the capital city of the state of California. It is another great starting point for Burning Man participants who wanted to embark on a road trip across California and Nevada. From Sacramento International Airport, participants can embark on a tour of the city, where they can visit attractions such as Old Sacramento State Historic Park and Crocker Art Museum. RV rental options abound in the city, ready to cater to visitors especially those attending Burning Man. The five-hour-long drive from this city to Black Rock City offers serene and peaceful views of national parks along the way.
RV rentals for Sacramento, California
9. Portland, Oregon
Want a one-of-a-kind road trip across Oregon before heading out to the Burning Man? Then, begin the journey at Portland, Oregon. This capital city is a 10-hour drive from the Black Rock Desert. The theme of the Burning Man suits well the atmosphere of Oregon’s capital. Portland is known as a bastion of progressive values and counterculture. The city has also been dubbed as the \“City of Roses\” since its climate is conducive to the growth of roses. With a cold climate and lots of parks to stop by, Portland is the perfect complement to the sweltering-hot weather of Black Rock City.
RV rentals for Portland, Oregon
Burning Man is waiting
Every year, thousands of participants camp out in Black Rock Desert just to participate in Burning Man. Since the location of the gathering is secluded and has no permanent accommodations, participants bring their own RVs to enjoy a week of activities. Luckily, there are several RV rental options near the area. Participants can even rent an RV from the big cities on this list, visit major attractions, and head out to Burning Man.
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Google ×