Mesquite Spring Campground – Death Valley
Mesquite Spring Campground is a well-situated, first-come, first-served campground located in the northern part of Death Valley National Park. It offers a peaceful and scenic base camp for visitors exploring this desert wilderness, surrounded by the striking geological features and desert mountains characteristic of the region.
Located at an elevation of 1,800 feet, the campground is a convenient stop for adventurers seeking to explore the northern areas of the park, including the nearby Grapevine Canyon and Scotty’s Castle.
Campground Details
| Site Types | Tent, RV, and Car Campsites |
| GPS Coordinates | 36.962296 -117.369289 |
| Number of Sites | 40 |
| Amenities | Potable Water, Vault Toilets, Trash/Recycling Collection |
| Reservations | No, first-come, first-served |
| Campground Address | Mesquite Spring Campground, Death Valley National Park, CA 92328 |
| Season | Open year-round |
| Fees | Pay at the automatic pay station |
| Dump Station | Yes, year-round |
| Cell Service | No |
| Internet | No |
| Fire Policy | Wood fires allowed in provided metal firegrates |
| Toilets | Flush Toilets (year-round) |
| Showers | None |
| Generator Hours | 7 AM to 7 PM |
| Quiet Hours | 10 PM to 7 AM |
How to Get to the Campground
Mesquite Spring Campground is located 33 miles north of the junction of CA-190 and Scotty’s Castle Road, near the entrance to the northern section of Death Valley National Park. From CA-190, head north on Scotty’s Castle Road for about 33 miles. Turn left onto the campground access road, which will lead you to the campground entrance, approximately 2 miles further.
Please note that access to the campground may be closed temporarily if traveling through Grapevine Canyon via Nevada Highway 267.
Campground Overview
Mesquite Spring Campground offers a straightforward and no-frills camping experience, ideal for visitors who want to experience the stark beauty of Death Valley while keeping close to key points of interest. Surrounded by rugged mountains, the campground is a peaceful spot, with 40 campsites nestled under desert trees. Each site includes a picnic table and a metal fire grate, offering a traditional camping experience.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to arrive early during busy seasons to secure a spot. There are no electrical or water hookups, but potable water is available at the campground. There are no showers, so visitors should plan accordingly.
The campground is in close proximity to many of Death Valley’s northern attractions. It’s just a short drive from the iconic Scotty’s Castle, which is currently closed to the public for repairs but remains a notable feature of the area.
The nearby Grapevine Canyon offers fantastic opportunities for hiking and exploring the desert’s natural beauty. Visitors can also take a scenic drive to other points of interest, such as Ubehebe Crater and the Wildrose Peak Trail.
Mesquite Spring also provides a tranquil and starry backdrop for stargazing, given its remote location far from city lights. As Death Valley is a designated International Dark Sky Park, this is a fantastic place for amateur astronomers or anyone interested in seeing the night sky in all its glory.
For those camping in RVs or trailers, the campground is accessible to vehicles and provides gravel and paved sites. However, it’s important to note that there are no electric hookups, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Although it is a fairly remote spot, the campground is well-maintained, with a dump station available year-round and regular trash and recycling collection. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s Leave No Trace policies and the importance of packing out all waste, especially in such a sensitive desert environment.
Things to Do
While Mesquite Spring Campground itself is relatively simple, it is a great base camp for exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Death Valley National Park. Visitors can:
- Hike the nearby trails: Mesquite Spring is close to several popular trails in Death Valley.
- Visit Scotty’s Castle: Although temporarily closed, the area surrounding Scotty’s Castle offers beautiful vistas and an interesting glimpse into the history of the park.
- Explore the northern desert landscape: The campground is surrounded by unique geological features, including canyons, rock formations, and desert wildlife. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for any outdoor activities.
- Stargazing: As an International Dark Sky Park, Death Valley offers some of the clearest skies in the United States, making Mesquite Spring an excellent location for stargazing.
If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded campground from which to explore the northern part of Death Valley, Mesquite Spring Campground offers an ideal balance of simplicity and access to the natural wonders of this vast desert landscape.
For information on other camping options in the Death Valley area, check out our comprehensive Death Valley camping guide.
