Tent camping near Shoshone, California offers access to rugged desert landscapes situated between Death Valley National Park and the Spring Mountains. Most primitive camping sites in this area sit at elevations between 2,500-8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations that can provide refuge from summer heat. Winter campers at higher elevations must prepare for nighttime temperatures that can drop below 15°F, while maintaining proper distance from springs that attract desert wildlife.
What to do
Hiking Telescope Peak: The trailhead at Mahogany Flat Primitive Campground provides access to challenging but rewarding terrain. One camper noted, "If you're planning a hike of Telescope Peak, I'd highly recommend utilizing this campground as a basecamp to get an early start to the hike." Dogs are permitted on certain trails, with one visitor explaining, "We forgot to check if we could take our dog on the hike but lucky you can go on the service road which was completely empty and still had amazing views."
Stargazing opportunities: At Mack's Canyon Dispersed, the dark skies provide exceptional celestial viewing. A visitor observed, "It's just far enough away to see the Milky Way at night." Most sites offer unobstructed sky views with minimal light pollution from Las Vegas, making spring and fall ideal for meteor shower watching.
Wildlife viewing: Desert wildlife can be spotted in early morning hours. A camper at Carpenter Canyon recounted, "There's a beautiful little stream with fish in it!" Wildlife opportunities are most abundant near the limited water sources in these arid camping locations, especially during spring months.
What campers like
Temperature relief from desert heat: The elevation differences create cooler camping opportunities. At Carpenter Canyon, one camper shared, "Weather was nice and cool, there's a beautiful little stream with fish in it!" Another noted at Mack's Canyon, "It was typically much cooler on the mountain which is a short 47 minute drive from the site. It was 104 in the valley and 78 on the peak."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer ample space between campers. At Mack's Canyon, one visitor explained, "Sites are spacious and set far away from each other. Very happy with these sites. Great place to disconnect." Camping on weekdays typically provides more solitude than weekends.
Natural springs: Some camping areas feature small desert springs. One camper at Mack's Canyon Dispersed noted, "There are two little springs that seep out of the ground. I just love how quiet it is you get about a handful of people that come up to see the flowers that are near the spring." Water availability varies seasonally and should not be relied upon for drinking.
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Many primitive sites demand high-clearance vehicles. At Carpenter Canyon, one visitor warned, "12 Mile Drive in. Moderately difficult trail without 4WD." Another camper admitted, "I was FREAKED out on the way in. 12 miles down a very rocky dirt road. Ripped one of the side steps off the truck. High clearance is a must."
Variable temperatures require layering: Temperature shifts between day and night can be extreme. A camper at Mack's Canyon noted, "Very few insects due to the elevation, and except for the occasional airplane taking off from Vegas, pretty quiet." At higher elevations, prepare for significant winds.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. One Mack's Canyon visitor advised, "This is basic- no electrical hook ups or paved roads/spots so if you want to be true to nature this is great!" Another stressed, "There are no services so remember to leave no trace."
Tips for camping with families
Secure loose items: Wind conditions can affect camps at higher elevations. As one Mack's Canyon Dispersed Camping camper warned, "Gets windy at night so stuff can blow away." Using extra tent stakes and securing camping gear is essential, particularly during spring months.
Wildlife education: The desert environment offers learning opportunities. A camper noted, "We stayed two nights and had the place pretty much to ourselves mid week though I hear weekends can get crowded. Do not miss this spot. One of the top things to see is the bat colonies who come out at sunset and stay the evening."
Check fire restrictions: Regulations vary seasonally and by location. A recent camper mentioned, "Great spot for a nice quick get away from the Vegas heat! No fires. The park ranger actually checked to make sure we were aware of the fire restrictions." Fire bans are strictly enforced during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At The Wild Mustang, a visitor shared, "After checking in with the host, we got permission to pull our van over the berm and onto the property—and it was perfect. It had amazing views and total privacy." Another RVer confirmed, "34 foot rv no problem getting here and turning around."
Leveling challenges: Prepare equipment for uneven terrain. One camper mentioned, "Took the travel trailer up Carpenter Canyon on a whim, since we did have a trailer with us we couldn't get all the way to the stream. Ended up pulling off the side of the road, very secluded with a lovely view."
Water conservation: No hookups means careful resource planning. A camper at DeathValley Camp noted, "You are also welcome to plug in to a standard outlet for charging and use their hose for drinking water and filling tanks." Most dispersed campsites require bringing all necessary water.
