Saline Valley Campground – Death Valley
Saline Valley Campground is a primitive, remote campground located within Death Valley National Park, offering a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. Situated in the northern part of the park, this campground is famous for its clothing-optional hot springs, making it a popular spot for those seeking a more secluded and natural camping experience.
The campground is accessible by a rugged, unpaved road, requiring high-clearance vehicles, and is located at an elevation of 1,375 feet, surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes.
The campground has 15 sites, all of which are primitive, with no hookups or amenities. It’s a destination primarily for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings and hot springs, with limited facilities or infrastructure. Due to its remote location and difficult access, Saline Valley is best suited for experienced campers with appropriate vehicles and a sense of adventure.
Campground Details
| Number of Sites | 15 |
| Site Type | Primitive |
| Amenities | None (no potable water, no toilets) |
| Phone Number | 760-786-3200 |
| Reservations | No |
| Season | Year-round, but access may be limited in winter |
| Elevation | 1,375 feet |
| RV/Trailer Info | No RVs or trailers; high-clearance 4WD required |
| Nearby Attractions | Saline Valley Hot Springs, Death Valley National Park |
| Access | High-clearance 4WD required; unpaved roads; North Pass (7,300 ft) or South Pass (5,997 ft) |
| Location | Death Valley National Park, CA |
| GPS Coordinates | 36.805560, -117.773900 |
How to Get to Saline Valley Campground
Accessing Saline Valley Campground requires navigating several miles of rugged, unpaved roads. Visitors must be prepared for a rough drive and must travel through mountian passes that may be closed in winter. Check with the park service before attempting to reach the campground and for guidance on how to best approach the area.
Campground Overview
Saline Valley Campground is a remote, primitive camping experience located in the northern part of Death Valley National Park. The campground is well-known for its natural hot springs, which are clothing-optional and have become a significant draw for those seeking a more unique, laid-back camping experience. With only 15 sites available, the campground offers a sense of solitude and isolation, making it perfect for adventurers looking to disconnect from the modern world.
The campground is primitive, with no amenities such as potable water, flush toilets, or picnic tables. Campers should come prepared with sufficient water, food, and waste disposal solutions. The lack of infrastructure and services means that the focus here is on natural beauty and self-sufficiency.
Saline Valley is situated at an elevation of 1,375 feet, but the surrounding terrain features towering passes that rise up to 7,300 feet, creating dramatic vistas. Accessing the campground is challenging, requiring a high-clearance vehicle and potentially 4WD, depending on weather conditions. Visitors should also be prepared for the possibility of road closures during the winter months due to snow or other adverse weather conditions.
For those who can make the journey, Saline Valley offers a serene and unique experience. The hot springs, nestled in a secluded desert valley, provide a rare opportunity to relax in natural mineral baths under the expansive desert sky. The area is peaceful and quiet, with minimal light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing at night.
This campground is best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable with rugged conditions and are looking for a primitive, off-grid experience. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking solitude, adventure, and a connection to nature away from the crowds found in other parts of Death Valley National Park.
For information on other camping options in the Death Valley area, check out our comprehensive Death Valley camping guide.
