Death Valley Camping Guide

Death Valley National Park, known for its extreme temperatures and vast desert landscapes, offers a variety of camping experiences. Whether you prefer the amenities of developed campgrounds, the solitude of primitive sites, or the freedom of backcountry camping, Death Valley has options to suit every type of camper.

Below, we outline the main types of camping available: developed campgrounds, primitive campgrounds, backcountry camping, and private campgrounds. One thing to keep in mind is that Death Valley is huge – the distance between campgrounds can be significant (hours of driving), so plan accordingly.

Developed Campgrounds

Developed campgrounds are accessible via paved roads and provide basic amenities such as potable water, toilets, and trash removal. These campgrounds are recommended for visitors who desire more convenience and safety, especially during the extreme heat of the summer months.

Texas Springs Campground

• Total Sites: 92
• Features: Seasonal potable water, cell reception, no generators allowed
• Details: Open seasonally starting October 15. Located above Furnace Creek with scenic views. First come, first served.
• More info

Sunset Campground

• Total Sites: 230
• Features: Seasonal potable water, cell reception, no firegrates at individual sites
• Details: Rarely fills, open seasonally. Basic amenities and large capacity make it a reliable choice for car camping.
• More info

Stovepipe Wells Campground

• Total Sites: 190
• Features: Potable water, cell reception, adjacent to store and ranger station
• Details: Open seasonally and located near the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. First come, first served.
• More info

Emigrant Campground

• Total Sites: 10 (tent-only)
• Features: Year-round potable water, basic facilities
• Details: Free, small campground at 2,100 feet. Ideal for tent campers seeking a quieter experience.
• More info

Wildrose Campground

• Total Sites: 23
• Features: Potable water, no cell service, high-elevation camping at 4,100 feet
• Details: Free, first come, first served. Expect cooler temperatures and potential high winds.
• More info

Mesquite Spring Campground

• Total Sites: 40
• Features: Year-round potable water, remote setting
• Details: Located 2 miles off Scotty’s Castle Road. A good base for exploring the northern park area.
• More info

Primitive Campgrounds

For those seeking more adventure, primitive campgrounds require high-clearance 4×4 vehicles and offer no services. Visitors must bring their own water and pack out all trash.

Thorndike Campground

• Total Sites: 6
• Features: No potable water, high elevation at 7,400 feet
• Details: Accessible by high-clearance vehicles only. Ideal for campers seeking solitude and cooler temperatures.
• More info

Mahogany Flat Campground

• Total Sites: 9
• Features: No potable water, scenic views at 8,200 feet
• Details: Located near the Telescope Peak trailhead. High-clearance, 4×4 vehicles required.
• More info

Eureka Dunes Campground

• Total Sites: 7
• Features: No services, remote access
• Details: Situated at the base of California’s tallest sand dunes. Accessible only by high-clearance vehicles.
• More info

Homestake Campground

• Total Sites: 10
• Features: No potable water, extremely remote
• Details: Accessible only via challenging 4×4 routes. Ideal for experienced backcountry campers.
• More info

Saline Valley Campground

• Total Sites: 15
• Features: No potable water, clothing-optional hot springs nearby
• Details: High-clearance vehicles required, with routes that may be inaccessible during winter.
• More info

Backcountry Camping

Backcountry camping in Death Valley offers a rugged, self-reliant experience for those prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles. It is allowed along dirt roads at least one mile from any paved road. Some areas require permits, which can be obtained online up to six months in advance.

Note that Backcountry roadside camping along Echo Canyon, Hole in the Wall, Cottonwood/Marble Canyon and Greenwater Valley Rd and backpacking on the Cottonwood/Marble Loop are by reservation only. Reservations can be made online up to 6 months in advance.

Tips for Backcountry Camping:

• Choose pre-disturbed campsites and park adjacent to the roadway.
• No fires allowed except in designated firepans.
• Groups limited to 12 people and four vehicles; larger groups must disperse.
• Bring ample water and avoid camping in dry washes due to flash flood risk.

The park service publishes a downloadable PDF backcountry map, which can come in hand.

Private Campgrounds

Private campgrounds in and around Death Valley provide additional amenities and take reservations year-round. Options include:

Stovepipe Wells RV Park

Offers RV hookups, access to a general store, and nearby attractions. More info

Fiddler’s Campground

Family-friendly with modern amenities. More info

Panamint Springs Resort

Known for its remote setting and basic facilities, great for those looking to explore the western areas of the park. Even if you aren’t camping here, it’s worth checking out the restaurant. More info

Shoshone RV Park

Located in Shoshone, a small town outside the southern end of the Death Valley. More info

Important Reminders

• Seasonal Considerations: Summer temperatures can exceed 120°F, making camping extremely challenging (there have been several heat-related deaths in recent years). Consider higher elevation sites for cooler conditions.
• Rules and Regulations: Follow park rules regarding campfires, pet policies, and generator use.
• Wildlife: Protect your food from coyotes and ravens, and never feed wildlife.

Resources

Death Valley National Park Camping Page
Furnace Creek Reservation Page
Death Valley Alerts and Warnings
Preparing for Desert Heat
Flash Flood Safety