Map showing campground location near Beatty, California

Camper submitted image from Mesquite Springs Campground

Mesquite Springs Campground

Accessible by paved road, Mesquite Springs Campground sits at a higher elevation within Death Valley National Park, making it cooler than valley floor options but subject to wind. The National Park Service manages this first-come, first-served campground with 30 sites accommodating RVs up to 30 feet, plus water hookups and a dump station.

Sites along the dry riverbed offer the largest spaces and afternoon shade first, though all sites include picnic tables and fire rings. The campground fills quickly on weekends during peak seasons of fall through mid-March. Drinking water, restrooms, and ADA-accessible facilities serve campers, while pets remain welcome throughout. Ubehebe Crater lies 20 minutes north, and the remote Racetrack requires a full day with emergency preparations recommended.

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Location

Public Campground

Mesquite Springs Campground is located in California

Coordinates

36.963493429359886 N
117.3677290669392 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Water Hookups
Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2 hrs 27 min from Las Vegas, NV
4 hrs 54 min from Visalia, CA
5 hrs 2 min from Hanford, CA
5 hrs 24 min from Fresno, CA

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1 Review

Bronco Billy

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 29, 2024

I love this campground

This is by far the best campground in Death Valley. It's higher than the rest so it does get windy at times! The best time of year to visit is fall, winter, and spring up to mid-March. This campground is first-come, first-served, so be sure to show up early in the fall and spring. It will fill up fast on the weekend. We showed up late January around 2 pm on Thursday afternoon, and the campground was half full and full by Friday afternoon. The campsites along the dry river are the largest and nicest, and you will be the first sites to have afternoon shade. All of the sites are nice; if you can't get the prime spots, it's not a big deal. Don't forget to visit Scotty's Castle. You can make reservations during the winter to tour it. It should reopen in spring 2025 barring any more crazy 1,000-year storms. The Ubehebe Crater is 20 minutes up the road, and the Racetrack is a full-day round-trip adventure. Proceed with caution and have a good spare tire just in case. Bring plenty of food, water, and emergency satellite communication if you visit the racetrack and other areas of Death Valley. You will need to self-rescue if you don't have a satellite communication device. This park can be deadly if you aren't prepared.

Beatty, NV is the closest town for propane and supplies!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are reservations required for Mesquite Spring Campground?

No, reservations are not available for Mesquite Spring Campground as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means you'll need to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during the popular seasons of fall and spring when the campground typically fills up quickly. During winter weekdays, you might have better luck finding available sites. If you're planning to visit during peak times, consider having a backup camping option in case Mesquite Spring is full upon arrival.

When is the best time to visit Mesquite Spring Campground?

The ideal time to visit Mesquite Spring Campground is during fall, winter, and spring up to mid-March. These seasons offer the most comfortable temperatures for camping in Death Valley. Summer months bring extreme heat that can be dangerous and uncomfortable. The campground's higher elevation provides some relief from the valley floor temperatures, but it can get quite windy at times. Fall and early spring are particularly popular, so plan to arrive early during these peak seasons as the campground fills up quickly.

How do I get to Mesquite Spring Campground in Death Valley National Park?

Mesquite Spring Campground is located in the northern section of Death Valley National Park. From the east entrance of the park via Nevada, follow the main road (CA-190) west and watch for signs to the campground. If entering from the west side, take CA-190 east through the park. The campground is situated at a higher elevation than other camping areas in the park, making it somewhat cooler. The access road is paved and suitable for most vehicles, though larger RVs should verify clearance requirements.

What amenities are available at Mesquite Spring Campground in Death Valley?

Mesquite Spring Campground offers basic amenities for campers in Death Valley. The campground provides potable water, flush toilets, and picnic tables at each site. There are no electrical hookups or shower facilities available. Each campsite includes a fire ring, though fire restrictions may apply depending on conditions. The campground is situated at a higher elevation compared to other Death Valley camping areas, which can affect temperatures and wind conditions.

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