RV sites near Shoshone, California provide access points to Death Valley National Park with temperatures often exceeding 110°F in summer months, making spring and fall the optimal camping seasons. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 2,200-3,000 feet, creating milder conditions than the valley floor. Cell service throughout the region is spotty with strongest coverage typically found near larger settlements.
What to do
Visit Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge: Located near Longstreet Inn Casino & RV Resort, this destination offers miles of boardwalks around desert springs. "This place is a must see! The largest oasis in the Mohave Desert. There are miles of boardwalks that take you around some springs and a very nice Visitor Center. And it's free!" notes Lee N.
Stargaze in the desert: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. "We drove away from the campground at night for some amazing star viewing," reports Katie E. about staying at Longstreet Inn Casino.
Try your luck at nearby casinos: Several RV campgrounds in Pahrump are located near gaming establishments. "They have a hotel and a bar/restaurant... Literally in the center of the city," explains a reviewer about Saddle West Hotel Casino RV Resort.
Explore the Shoshone Museum: This local attraction provides insight into the area's mining history and natural environment. "The Shoshone Museum is worth a visit as well," mentions Caroline P. who stayed at Shoshone RV Park.
What campers like
Natural warm springs: Shoshone RV Park offers a naturally heated pool for guests. "They have full hookups, shower and laundry and a natural hot spring pool. It's really nice after a day on 100+ in Death Valley," shares Joel R.
Proximity to Death Valley: Longstreet Inn Casino & RV Resort provides affordable access to the national park. "Full hook up for $35/night, 30 [minutes] from Death Valley-easy drive... And gas here is literally 1/2 the price you'll pay in Death Valley," says alan P.
Variety of amenities: Nevada Treasure RV Resort stands out for its recreational facilities. "The pool is so tropical it has a lovely waterfall going into the pool nice hot tub, go inside of the bar and restaurant and enjoy game of bowling, nice gym, gift shop, ice cream for sale in the front, mini golf in the back," notes Brittney C.
Pupfish viewing: Unique wildlife observation opportunities exist near camping facilities. "I did walk the nature trail and see the endangered pupfish in the habitat restoration area... and enjoyed the winter birds (phainopepla, verdin, marsh wren, and of course ravens)," reports Caroline P.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds don't take advance bookings. "You can not make reservations, and they need to inspect your rig before they will let you in for the 10 year rule and to make sure it looks nice," explains SMCadventures4u about Pahrump Station RV Park.
Pet policies: Most RV parks welcome dogs with standard restrictions. "Dogs are allowed as long on leashes," notes Brittney C. about Saddle West. At Nevada Treasure RV Resort, "they have an amazing dog run for your animals."
Campfire restrictions: Rules about open flames differ between facilities. Several reviewers mention no-fire policies at certain parks, while others permit contained fires in designated areas.
Temperature extremes: Seasonal variations can be dramatic. Winter nights often drop below freezing while summer days regularly exceed 100°F, requiring appropriate camping preparations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shade: Tree cover makes a significant difference during hot weather. At Wine Ridge RV Resort, "the streets are paved, the sites are gravel with a concrete slab patio. A few end spaces have umbrella tables," notes Jessica M.
Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities: Some parks offer activities specifically designed for children. "There's a nice mix of tent and RV spots... Green grass, decent toilets and showers," reports Evan about Shoshone RV Park.
Consider free attractions: Budget-friendly options exist for family activities. "Ash Meadow Wildlife Refuge... is free!" emphasizes Lee N. who stayed at Longstreet Inn Casino.
Find campgrounds with pools: Swimming facilities provide welcome relief from desert heat. "Wow just when you pull in you see trees galore after getting here driving through the desert you realize you've now arrived in a little oasis," describes Brittney C. about Lakeside Casino & RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Space configurations vary widely between parks. "Sites are large, and level but not paved," notes a camper at Shoshone RV Park.
Consider amenities package: Full hookup availability differs across facilities. "Full RV hook ups complete shade because of all the trees... gas station in corner store literally on the same property," states Brittney C. about Lakeside Casino & RV Park.
Verify big rig access: Not all parks can accommodate larger vehicles. "Gravel roads throughout the park, nice large parking spaces for your rigs," observes Brittney C. at Preferred RV Resort.
Monitor water usage: Water conservation is important in this desert region. Many parks enforce restrictions during drought conditions.
Plan for limited connectivity: "Cell reception in the park is really spotty and weak. It seemed to be better in the South end of the park," warns Paul O. about Shoshone RV Park.
