Good free camping next to a road
Stayed probably 10 nights here this season between February and May. It can fill up quickly in the afternoon or evening, so plan to arrive early and, if going out to play, leave something to indicate your site is occupied.
This is tent only but I’ve slept in my small truck camper here and many sleep in vans or vehicles. I’ve seen quite a few small RVs here too.
Water is not potable year round, will be deemed not potable and/or shut off mid-May per convo with NPS employee. Fill at Stovepipe, Panamint, or elsewhere in summer. Showers, pool, WiFi available 10-ish miles away at Stovepipe for $10. No cell service at camp. Spotty 3G at Stovepipe.
Bathrooms are clean with no noticeable mold. Site can get VERY windy. Take care of your stuff. I’ve saved multiple tents here that weren’t properly secured while their owners were out for the day.
No shade here and the road can be loud. Traffic fumes can also be a factor, depending on wind direction, for those who are sensitive when people using the rest stop leave their rigs idling.
Overall, I recommend this spot as a single night or two but not for much more than that. It’s a great base close to showers but far enough out of the busier campgrounds and crowds.