Planning a dispersed camping trip near Death Valley National Park? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Death Valley National Park, including photos, reviews, and tips. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.
The Alabama Hills are a formation of rounded rocks and eroded hills set between the jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the geologically complex Inyo Mountains. Both geologic features were shaped by the same uplifting occurring 100 million years ago. Alabama Hills camping offers touring film sites, photography, rock climbing, exploring natural arches, and viewing the swaths of wildflowers that bloom every spring. Horseback riding and mountain biking are popular activities.
Interested in backcountry (dispersed) camping? It is a great opportunity to explore the park's rugged Wilderness. Check out the information on this page (https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/backcamp.htm) to learn where camping is allowed, what regulations apply, and how to obtain a free permit.
Backcountry/Wilderness Permits Free voluntary permits for backcountry camping may be obtained online, or in person at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center or Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station during business hours. Solo hikers may want to provide additional information about plans and emergency contacts.
Where is backcountry roadside camping allowed? Along dirt roads at least one mile away from any paved road or "day use only" dirt road. Camp only in previously disturbed areas and park your vehicle immediately adjacent to the roadway to minimize impact. The wilderness boundary is 50 feet from the center of most dirt roads. Download the Backcountry & Wilderness Access Map to take with you.
This is a clothing-optional hot spring area approximately 35 miles from the nearest paved road. A high-clearance vehicle and all-terrain tires are necessary to access this campground and road/weather conditions may necessitate 4-wheel drive. This campground is located at 1,375ft, but requires navigating either North Pass at 7,300ft or South Pass at 5,997ft and may be inaccessible due to winter conditions.
The NPS established nine campsites along Echo Canyon Road and six along Hole in the Wall Road. No camping is allowed along these roads, except with a permit in designated site. Permits can only be acquired in person at Furnace Creek Visitor Center (8:00 am to 5:00 pm) and Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station (intermittent hours). The free permits can be issued for stays of up to seven nights, but cannot be reserved in advance.
Roadside camping along these routes has increased greatly over the past decade. When campsites were full, people drove off road to create new sites. By limiting camping to designated sites, the NPS hopes that campers will be able to experience the solitude and quiet of the surrounding wilderness. Limiting the number and location of campsites will also reduce human impacts on the desert.
Permits are a way for park rangers to communicate with campers about Leave No Trace ethics, NPS regulations and other ways users can help protect the environment. Park staff compare usage information from permits with resource impacts on the ground to determine if use limitations are needed to protect the fragile desert. Permits are also valuable during search-and-rescue efforts. Backpacking and roadside camping permits are not required for any other area of the park, but they are encouraged.
These relatively undiscovered sand dunes offer an ideal recreation area for ATVs. These hills are a well-kept secret and mostly used by locals, but expect to find plenty of other off-roaders on the weekends. The Big Dunes cover five square miles and tower about 500’. Big Dune is home to sensitive plants and animals.
Guide
Was one of the most beautiful campgrounds I’ve stayed at. Just unfortunate that most the spots are labeled “Day Use Only.” Luckily we ran into someone nice enough to offer sharing their campground. Definitely a place you’d want to show up 4-5 hours early to find a spot. Otherwise, the roads were not too bad. The below freezing temps were well worth the stunning views.
Guide
We pulled off on the closest part to the road which was quiet all night really. There were other parts further up.
Traveler
This location is right off the highway, which made it convenient for a quick stop. There was mild highway noise, but it wasn’t too bothersome, just a hum in the background. Occasionally, we’d hear burros in the distance, which added some character to the place. We stayed in a tent, and despite being close to the road, it was still a great spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Overall, a solid choice for a brief stay.
Traveler
2nd time at this spot and loved it! Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around.
Guide
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.
GuideAbsolutely love this spot! Very cool rock formations all around you. Nice short trail nearby that takes you by a stream.
Nearby to lone pine where I had one of the best patty melts ever. And internet is great if you need to work.
Keep an eye out for the 4x4 roads as the other spots get filled up. Don’t go in summer with pets unless you have an AC
ScoutExploring 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.
Guide
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.
TravelerRight off the road, headlights beam the first camp ground so you are going to want to drive further up.
GuideDespite 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.
Traveler
Went here on a Saturday and there was only one other car on the entire lakebed. Really beautiful, peaceful, isolated area.
TravelerEasy access right off Hwy 95 for my Harley. Camp near the pond or around any of the many fire rings in the gravel parking area.
GuideDepending on the time of year, it may be hard to find a spot. You can't park anywhere, but there are designated spots to camp in. I went at the end of April and it was packed.
You might be able to park overnight and leave early in the morning in some areas, not sure how much they patrol the area.
No cell coverage for T-Mobile, but I used my WeeBoost and got two bars, enough to make calls and texts.
Use caution when traversing though the area to find a site if you have a normal sedan or normal vehicle height. The road is bumpy and there can areas that are steep.
My Van got stuck through a slot canyon as I was trying to find a site. I didn't have my recovery tracks, since it was a last minute stop on the way back from Mammoth.
With the help of a nice nearby camper who had a wench, we were able to free my van in three hours. It was around midnight, so I ended up just driving out and parking in Lone Pine to sleep for a few hours.
Scout
Easy to find at night, even had a fire ring. Road is sandy but with clearance is fine.
GuideEasy to find even in the dark. Nobody else was here so it was very peaceful. We had a great time as it’s not too hot here yet. This is such a unique area, I would come back next spring in a heartbeat!
Traveler
There’s a road that takes you to the spot where you can camp, there’s concrete squares in a majority of the spots in a wide area but if you keep down the gravel road you’ll find cleared areas with fire pits, there’s even a road that you can park on top of a hill.
36.34098° N, 116.61444° W
ScoutQuiet, remote BLM site. No amenities. 5 miles outside of Beatty, Nevada off of Death Valley Road.
TravelerTHIS PLACE IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. HEAVEN ON EARTH!!! Only thing I would advise against is getting there in the dark. We got there around 9pm and it started snowing. We couldn’t see a foot ahead of us and had no idea where we were. Finding an overnight spot was almost impossible. However the view we woke up to the next morning was out of this world. We were the in April. Nights are cold (we god snow) temperature during the day is very comfortable! Cell phone service is touch and go. Garbage disposal available at entrance as wells as porta potties. The overnight spots can be hard to find and are popular. Get there before noon if you want to secure a spot. Absolutely worth the detour. Don’t hesitate. Just go!
GuideThe lakebed is out of the way enough that it seems to be often completely abandoned. It’s quiet and striking and I had a nice clear, still night to appreciate stars like I don’t often see them. Bring water, and wood if you want a fire and you should be good. There’s one little fire ring built up of stones. I imagine you have to watch for rain as the bed of the lake is clay and a turn in weather could spell for a messy exit at the least. I had decent Verizon service, but it didn’t reach the back of the lakebed.
Elevation 4020ft
There really should be a spot to enter elevation on these forms. This time of year it makes all the difference in the world.
GuideThis site is on Horseshoe Meadow Road about 1/2 mile north of the Tuttle Creek site. There are 3 legal spots with camping signs. First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks. First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue. The second and third have better views. But the first can offer wind protection from the north. BLM. Carry in and out.
Guide
Nice place to camp for free if you don't mind having some neighbors. Close to the highway but little traffic noise. Worked well for an overnight before going into the park the next morning.
RangerCampground had some nice spots for dry camping. I planned to stay on BLM land off the road but this seemed part of the ghost town private property. It was late and I was confused..I need to go back and donate $5.
GuideLarge space, you can park on the pads or the dirt. Very close to the park. Right off the highway and easy to find. No water, no restrooms and no cell service. Be careful if you tent camp off the pads. My tent got some holes from the tiny rocks, even with a good foot print. Some are just very pointy. Overall great free spot, can’t complain. Would definitely camp there again.
Ranger
This was so peaceful and quiet. The road is gravel but recommend 4x4 with clearance.
The new setup is the sites are designated and must be reserved at the visitor center. The Ranger was really helpful.
LegendGreat for a night or two, heading towards or leaving Death Valley between Joshua Tree..
You are literally in the middle of nowhere. No cell phone reception, amenities, nothing, not even shelter, but yet so peaceful and quiet. We saw a couple of RVs but everyone has a TON of space....I would totally camp here again.
I was able to let dog and cat out of camper and they weren't going anywhere....nothing to chase, etc.
ScoutNice place. Beware! Road ends on the half of the way. No advise to enter the road with RV.
GuideThe main Whitney portal - Movie road crossroad was closed, we went there from the other side. Then after about 20 minutes "driving" on Movie road (very very bumby terrain) and still meeting only signs "day use only" we just turned back and eventually stayed at a place near another road nearby (Horse-something road). Wouldn't go there again.
Experience the rugged beauty of Death Valley National Park through dispersed camping, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Death Valley National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Death Valley National Park is Alabama Hills Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 84 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Death Valley National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 dispersed camping locations near Death Valley National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
