Glamping near Death Valley National Park ranges from tent sites at higher elevations to RV parks with extended amenities. Located in the Mojave Desert of eastern California, Death Valley sits at 282 feet below sea level and regularly records some of the highest temperatures in North America, often exceeding 120°F during summer months. Most campgrounds in this area are open year-round but experience significant seasonal fluctuations in visitation.
What to do
Explore ghost towns: About 26 miles from Death Valley, Bonnie Claire Gold Mill Ghost Town offers unique camping and exploration opportunities. "Camp there all the time. Very remote. Can easily be the only person there as it just opened. 100's of acres we camped on top of the old gold mill over looking the entire operation and was fabulous waking up to the view on top of the mountain," according to Kenneth W.
Stargaze in complete darkness: The remote desert location provides exceptional night sky viewing. At Minietta Road dispersed camping area, "the valley is known for having ZERO background noise, so the only sound you'll hear are the occasionally car, the ravens, and the Hornet fighter jet that flights overhead. At night, you get an unmatched view of the stars and Milky Way because there's no light pollution," notes Josh P.
Wildlife observation: Keep watch for the free-roaming burros that frequent many camping areas. At Space Station RV Park, "Burros visited campground both nights we were there," reports Char P. These desert-adapted animals often approach campsites, especially during cooler evening hours.
What campers like
Free camping options: Emigrant Campground provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Free, convenient, and a great view of the rolling mountains; what more can you ask for?" writes Emma C., who adds "There is a path leading to a bathroom with flush toilets (!!!), a couple of picnic tables, and some dumpsters for trash disposal."
Swimming facilities: Many visitors appreciate access to pools during hot weather stays. At Death Valley Inn & RV Park, campers get "use of the swimming, pool and hot tub at the adjoining death valley Inn," according to ReinerB, making it a welcome relief from desert temperatures.
Higher elevation options: Campsites at higher elevations provide cooler temperatures. Jason E. notes about Emigrant Campground: "This campsite is at 2000 feet so cooler than bottom and way less crowded. Good biking up side roads."
What you should know
Seasonal timing matters: Most campers avoid summer months when possible. "Most people avoid glamping here during summer when temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making spring and fall the most popular times to visit," with November through April being the recommended window.
Water availability varies: Water sources may be seasonal or unreliable. At Emigrant Campground, Niko L. reports "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."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise. The Diaz Lake Campground has scenic views but "there was loud trucks coming in and out in the late hours blasting music. Also 4 wheelers going crazy!! Did not sleep good at all," according to Erin T.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shade options: With extreme heat, shade becomes crucial for family comfort. At Diaz Lake Campground, you'll find "a lovely little lake surrounded by giant oak trees that offer lots of nice shade to spend time resting," according to Shanna P.
Consider proximity to amenities: Space Station RV Park & Market provides conveniences families appreciate. "Convenient to Death Valley NP and the ghost town of Rhyolite. Walking distance to a small casino (you can get gas, ice, candy, ice cream, Subway)," notes Char P.
Plan for extreme temperatures: Desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, requiring careful planning. "Open 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," shares Kate from her Emigrant Campground experience.
Tips from RVers
Generator policies vary: Check each campground's rules regarding generator use. At The Oasis at Death Valley Fiddlers' Campground, Don M. notes "Some gen sets running till 11.00 pm. Some starting up around 6:00 am," which can impact sleep quality for light sleepers.
Parking surface conditions: Most desert camping areas feature gravel lots rather than dedicated pads. At Fiddlers' Campground, Jason B. reports that "for $34 a night they will let you stay in a parking lot down the road," but the lot accommodates various RV sizes.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the area, so come prepared. Death Valley Inn & RV Park offers full hookup sites where "Dave, the manager, is very friendly and helpful. The sites are all gravel pull through and the RV Park is right in the middle of town on the main strip," according to Carrie.
