Best Tent Camping near Darwin, CA

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Best Tent Sites Near Darwin, CA (22)

Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Darwin

402 Reviews of 22 Darwin Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Texas Springs Campground — Death Valley National Park
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Texas Springs Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Scenic, quiet, easy, and clean

    Pulled in late, well after dark and after a long and somewhat harrowing drive in from the north. Read on the NPS website that of the three area campgrounds (all within a mile and very easy access), Furnace Creek is most popular (so we cruised past it), Texas Springs most scenic with mountain views (true), and Sunset rarely fills (because it’s a big gravel parking lot).

    Our stay was mid-week in October, so even rolling in after 9pm, there were only a few sites occupied. It’s a little tricky to find the loops, as the only signage is “slow,” with no numbered directionals, but so wide open it quickly makes sense. We found a spot right in the middle of the lower loop, no one around us, easy bathroom access. Electronic self pay station back at the entrance was a breeze. Realized after the fact there was also a kiosk by the lower bathroom, so we wouldn’t have had to go to the entrance.

    No power or water (expected), but the bathrooms were clean and I liked the dishwashing sink setup - outdoors with three taps and one big trough basin, several stations throughout the campground.

    Arrived after dark, so waking up to a desert mountain sunrise was a treat. StarLink worked perfectly under unobstructed sky for morning virtual meeting. Bonus points to NPS for their sense of humor in decorating the phone booth - and for having a phone booth. Dumpster, recycling, and propane drop all on the way out, super convenient.

    Only downside? It’s SO quiet that with low occupancy and desert acoustics, you can hear a tent zipper from 50 yards away. I imagine in busier season you might be all up in each other’s stuff.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Stovepipe Wells Village RV Park — Death Valley National Park
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Stovepipe Wells Village RV Park — Death Valley National Park

    No-frills sites, but easy access to supplies, fuel and pool

    We stayed recently when it was 116 during the day, but since the sites had electric, we gave it a shot.  The first two sites we tried had bad electrical setups. The breakers wouldn't lock in place, and kept flipping back to the tripped/open state.  No problem, since we were the only people there - we just notified management and moved sites.  They have water/sewer too, but you'll want to filter the water because of the taste.  The pool across the street was actually cold at night, even though the air temp was 90, so that was great.  

    The "saloon" was being renovated and had a limited menu... I'll just say that we wished we had just grabbed some pre-packaged sandwiches from the general store instead.

    Not a bad stop for staying in the park, with easy access to supplies, if neeeded.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Furnace Creek Campground — Death Valley National Park
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Furnace Creek Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Great location to explore the park

    It's a huge campground, a whole section was closed off when we were there. It's worth driving around to find the best vacant spot, as there are a few trees giving much needed shade. There are flush toilets, and running water. It's nice and close to the visitor centre, and to zabriskie point. It was quiet enough in Sept on a weekday, but I wouldn't fancy going there when it's busy.

  • Kate
    Camper-submitted photo from Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park

    free, quiet campground

    no one else was there when we arrived later in the evening though we only camped for one night at the end of summer. no one else ever showed up either. just a few cars drove by every now and then. we were exhausted so we just opened a couple windows to the car rather than set up our tent. toilets were within walking distance/next to the parking lot but closed due to bees. port-a-potties were available instead. at night, the stars were absolutely beautiful. it was pretty hot but by opening the car windows and using some battery powered fans, we managed!

  • Lisa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Creek RV Resort
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Boulder Creek RV Resort

    An Oasis on the 395

    This park is in the middle of nowhere but a fabulous view of the Sierra Nevada's. I had a problem when I pulled into my site getting shore power from the electrical hook up. But I went to the office and I was moved immediately to a better site with a good hook up! Quiet, clean and well landscaped for the desert surroundings

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Furnace Creek Campground — Death Valley National Park
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Furnace Creek Campground — Death Valley National Park

    Death Valley deserves better but in the meantime, this is it

    This is just an extraordinary place, Death Valley. Takes you out of yourself and your sense of human history completely. 

    The motels and campsites were always subpar. They act, to this day, like only hardened stoic geologists would want to visit.  This campsite is actually better than the so called “motels’ available. It’s not a great place, but BRING ALL your creature comforts and you’ll be thrilled to be in the middle of the all the hiking and road trip thrills. 

    I am writing this in fall of 2024. That means you should book Xmas 2025. Or else, really stay somewhere else entirely and expect a drive. 

    And yes, when you have the winter blues in January, this is just an incredible visit.

  • Andrew P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    Quiet, remote, beautiful

    I pulled in here looking for a campsite on my way up to mammoth. I was able to find a pretty dope spot surrounded by rocks, and nowhere near any other campers. I was legit, alone.

    Great place to pull off and sit on a rock to watch the sun set over the mountains. Shade was minimal, but if you hide between the rocks like they do in that scene on the fire planet in Riddick you’ll be alright til it cools off.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Whitney Trail Camp
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Mt. Whitney Trail Camp

    beautiful setting, but overcrowded and uncomfortable

    I think the coordinates for this campground are off, it's located closer to 36.563093,-118.279422

    We hiked Mt Whitney from the portal campground in two-days, with one overnight at trail camp. Even with the permit system, the campground was packed, it was hard to find a spot for our tents. We arrived to the campground around 4pm, so I would suggest starting the hike earlier (we started at 10am) if you want a better spot. Another downside of how many people go through the campground, was that it smelled like pee in a few areas, and I was very disappointed to see people had left trash and even wagbags.

    The 360 view around the campground is magnificent, and it is breath-taking to see the sunset and sunrise. Don't expect to sleep much in-between though, because you're sleeping on rocks, and hikers start/finish at all hours on the trail that's a few yards away from many of the tent spots.

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panamint Springs Resort
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Panamint Springs Resort

    Great amenities, decent cabin

    We stayed one night in Cabin #17. Because we visited off-season, we were one of only three cars parked in the cabin/camping area. The beds were comfortable and the air-conditioner kept the cabin cool while we slept. There were a LOT of bugs that got inside the cabin, which was somewhat unavoidable every time we openned the door. 

    The night we stayed was a new moon, so the dark sky views were INCREDIBLE. We saw the milky way with our bare eyes sitting on the porch of our cabin.

    We arrived around 10pm at night, so the check-in desk was already closed. Fortunately, I had received the email with the late check-in instructions, and finding our cabin assignment was easy. I do wish getting some information in advance had been easier. I tried to call the front desk on our drive to the park, but no one answered. It wasn't entirely clear what amenities/facilties were open. For example, the website said breakfast available in one place, but in another place it said the only open was getting a breakfast burritio in their gas station. So we didn't know if we should pack extra food.

    It did turn out that the restaraunt was still open, despite being off-season. It was pricey (totally fair, you're in the middle of a desert) but delicious, and friendly service. The staffer in the general store/gas station was also really friendly and gave great advice for which parts of the park to visit, and how to drive responsibily in the summer heat.

    Finally, I think it goes without saying, but coming in July will be HOT. Plan to do activities like hiking early in the morning, and find some place by noon to stay in the air conditioning until evening.

  • Erik R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    Dennis H. Jackson

    Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie. This iconic location in California has been the backdrop for countless films, thanks to its stunning rock formations and dramatic landscapes. If you're planning a visit, make sure to check out Castle app for an interactive and personalized travel guide that enhances your experience with custom itineraries and insights tailored to your interests. Whether you're a film buff or an outdoor enthusiast, the combination of real-world exploration and digital tools can make your adventure in the Alabama Hills truly unforgettable.

  • Mike W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Portagee Joe Campground

    Convenient Spot

    Last minute decision to camp near Lone Pine. The site has a machine that takes cards now - super convenient. The breeze helped cool the temperature quickly, and the creek sounds great! Mostly quiet tonight, maybe a third full.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Confusing layout lacking signage

    It’s confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through. Sites are small and you’re basically packed together. power and water are on the right instead of left. Bathroom ok, shower curtain looks dirty.

  • Eric A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Fish Creek Campground

    Tranquil Camping

    Campsite 32 was beautiful, overlooking the creek, every morning here was blissful. Fairly remote (about 25-30 min from the general store with wifi) this place feels like another world

  • Barrie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground / Westside of Death Valley

    Tranquility

    A lovely site, both scenic and peaceful. Was very quiet when we stayed. The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies. Charming and spacious, the informality of the site was a refreshing change. Owing to it being quiet, we spent most of our time there in one of the riverside overlooks that provided seating, a table & a grill (as well as being a vantage point for watching nature and launching the kayaks.

    The only slight negative was that it was the only one of 10 we used on this trip that offered full hook-ups but no WiFi (5G service was adequate though). Would also benefit with the addition of more than just the single shower/toilet unit (which contrary to another review was of more than adequate size)

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hogback Creekside Camp
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Hogback Creekside Camp

    Nice spot by a swift running creek.

    This place was pretty easy to find, right off Hogback road. There are a couple of sites here, we picked the first one. After an hour or so two vans showed up and parked on the other side of the creek. This site is so close to the road, we could see them make the turn off Hogback road. No trees, just bushes. It's okay. Pretty basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney.

  • Deb H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Whitney Portal

    Pretty

    The campground is beautiful. The sites are a bit close together and many have little privacy, but it was very quiet and enjoyable. The vault toilets needed to be emptied and they were very stinky. It seemed a little early in the season (early June) for them to be so full. Nice hiking trails accessible from the campground. Saw fresh bear scat near our site, but never saw any bears.

  • Nicholas G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Sequoia National Forest Fish Creek Campground

    Radical

    The sites were pretty well spaced and quiet at night. The bathrooms were not bad, and there's running water (needs to be treated). There's the wonderful sound of motorcycles on and off through the day, so if that bothers you take notice. There's some great fishing near by too.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Symmes Creek
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Symmes Creek

    Great mountain view

    Good camping spot with camping by a couple 14er including Mountain Whitney beautiful view of the mountains. Not that busy only had some construction vehicles driving by in the morning they are doing some construction up here currently

  • James N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek Campground — Alabama Hills
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Tuttle Creek Campground — Alabama Hills

    At the approach to Mt. Whitney

    Nice, out of the way campsite. 81 sites on Tuttle Creek. Clean restrooms. No showers or drinking water. Near Lone Pine, just off Whitney Portal Road, adjacent to Alabama Hills, so lots of exploring opportunities! Great dark skies for stargazing and photography.

  • Vincent B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Campsite
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Alabama Hills Dispersed Campsite

    Beautiful, Quiet Spot. Easy Access

    This spot was an absolute gem nestled in some amazingly beautiful rock formations. The spot was right off the main road and didn't take much effort to get to. Easily accessed with a Subaru Crosstrek and Honda CRV.

    The rocks provided great cover from the wind and there were 2 marked camping spots with fire rings that could both accommodate multiple vehicles.

    Great campsite.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Jun. 6, 2024

    Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    Crowded but Spectacular

    Despite mid week in May most “select” sites were taken. Many areas where you used to be able to camp have been signed “no camping.” VERY restrictive. That said, this place is special. Views are world class. Please be respectful and leave no trace so we can keep this gem open. We’ve been here several times and it never disappoints.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Diaz Lake Campground
    May. 28, 2024

    Diaz Lake Campground

    Great little place

    This place was great and well organized, the restrooms were clean and the location was tranquil with the sounds of Bullfrogs serenading you at night.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Independence BLM Dispersed
    May. 8, 2024

    Independence BLM Dispersed

    Completely Inaccessible - May 2024

    There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer and you will ahem have to back down the road which is approximately zero fun.

  • Michelle W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Portagee Joe Campground
    May. 2, 2024

    Portagee Joe Campground

    Glad to find this on a busy weekend

    It was ok. Not the dispersed camping I was looking for but at least I found something because Alabama Hills and Tuttle Creek were packed on a Friday afternoon.
    There were drunk guys across the creek from me so I stayed in my car most of the time. The fire ring was too close to the drunk guys to use.
    It worked.

  • Bronco Billy
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesquite Springs Campground
    Apr. 29, 2024

    Mesquite Springs Campground

    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!



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Darwin, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Darwin, CA is Emigrant Campground — Death Valley National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Darwin, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near Darwin, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.