Emigrant Campground provides tent camping accommodations at Death Valley National Park. Located 2,000 feet above sea level, this site serves as a designated camping area with 10 unmarked spots positioned around a gravel perimeter. The campground sits approximately 10 minutes from Stovepipe Wells along Highway 190 when entering from the southwest section of the park.
What to do
Explore side roads by bicycle: The elevation at Emigrant Campground offers cooler temperatures than valley floor locations, creating suitable conditions for cycling adventures. According to John H., the site provides "Good biking up side roads" and serves as an excellent base for day trips.
Visit nearby Stovepipe Wells: Located about 10 minutes from Minietta Road, Stovepipe Wells offers additional amenities for campers needing supplies. Niko L. notes that "Showers, pool, WiFi available 10-ish miles away at Stovepipe for $10," providing convenient access to services while maintaining distance from busier areas.
Nighttime stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities. Kate observed that "at night, the stars were absolutely beautiful" when staying at Emigrant Campground. The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Most sites near Trona offer significant isolation, creating peaceful overnight experiences. Kristi D. describes Minietta Road as "so peaceful and quiet. We saw a couple of RVs but everyone has a TON of space," highlighting the solitude available at dispersed sites.
Basic but functional amenities: Despite the remote location, Emigrant Campground maintains clean facilities. Niko L. reports that "Bathrooms are clean with no noticeable mold," while Jason E. notes the campground has "working toilets that flush & R kept well. There are multiple trash cans that are changed out."
Convenient positioning: The strategic location allows easy access to park attractions. Emma C. found that when "coming into the park along highway 190 from the southwest, this is a prime place to set up for the night," making it an ideal first stop when entering Death Valley National Park.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most glamping close to Trona, California requires self-sufficiency. At Minietta Road, Kristi D. advises that "You are literally in the middle of nowhere. No cell phone reception, amenities, nothing, not even shelter," emphasizing the need to arrive prepared.
Site availability challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly during peak seasons. Jason E. warns that "many people arrived just before sunset & after dark but were not able to get a spot because this filled up so quickly." Arriving early is strongly recommended.
Weather considerations: Extreme temperatures affect comfort levels. Kate mentions that "it was pretty hot but by opening the car windows and using some battery powered fans, we managed!" Wind can also impact camping experience, with Niko L. noting the site "can get VERY windy. Take care of your stuff."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife expectations: The desert setting offers minimal wildlife interactions, creating safe conditions for pets and children. At Minietta Road, Kristi D. found she "was able to let dog and cat out of camper and they weren't going anywhere....nothing to chase, etc."
Water availability limitations: Water sources may be unreliable during warmer months. Niko L. cautions that water at Emigrant Campground "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."
Hard ground conditions: Tent stakes may be difficult to secure in the rocky terrain. Emma C. describes Emigrant as having "ground is hard & filled with stones which make it hard to get a good stake in the ground," suggesting bringing appropriate tent anchoring alternatives.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Vehicle accommodation varies by location. Michell C. cautions about Emigrant: "We planned on staying here in our little Toyota Motorhome but when we arrived, we saw a 'Tent Only' sign," highlighting the importance of researching vehicle restrictions beforehand.
Gas planning: Significant price differences exist between locations. Jenae A. advises that "gas was 4.37 for unleaded just up the road, so try to fill up in Beatty, which is a whole dollar cheaper per gal," emphasizing the need to fuel up before entering remote areas.
Connectivity considerations: Communication options are extremely limited. Henry C. reports that at Minietta Road, "In this place you are like lost on an uninhabited island, no phone signal," while Jenae A. confirms "There is NONE-ZERO cell service here or around for at least 50 miles" near Emigrant Campground.
