Great Basin National Park campsites near Baker, Nevada range from 5,300 to nearly 10,000 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations even during summer months. Nighttime temperatures at Wheeler Peak Campground can drop into the 40s in July and August, while lower elevation sites may remain much warmer. Vehicle access varies dramatically between established and dispersed camping areas, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
**Night sky viewing program: Join ranger-led astronomy sessions at Upper Lehman Creek Campground, where light pollution is minimal. "The night sky is brilliant on clear evenings," notes one visitor to Wheeler Peak Campground, adding that many campers bring telescopes during summer months.
**Lehman Creek Trail hiking: Access this popular trail directly from the Upper Lehman Creek Campground. "We also went on a challenging snowshoe hike up the Lehman Creek trail, which starts right from the campground," shares Shari G., who visited during the shoulder season.
**Seasonal wildlife watching: Observe wild turkeys, marmots and deer throughout the camping areas. At Baker Creek Campground, Michael J. reports, "Very nice campground with ample wild life to keep you entertained, turkeys roaming through camp, roosting in trees, and yellow bellied marmots eating the road for it's salt content."
What campers like
**Stream-side camping: Many sites at Baker Creek Campground sit beside a creek. "We had a stream running right behind us, a picnic table and plenty of room to back a truck in. There were trees to hang hammocks with views through the valley," reports Liv L.
**Vault toilet cleanliness: The park maintains exceptionally clean facilities. At Lower Lehman Campground, visitors note the cleanliness despite primitive conditions: "The bathroom was kept very clean (We were basically the only ones using it)," according to Maria D., who camped there during winter.
**High elevation camping: Wheeler Peak Campground sits at nearly 10,000 feet. "Breathtaking location with a lot of wildlife and space between campgrounds," reports Trevor D., highlighting the unique experience of camping at this elevation.
What you should know
**Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have seasonal water shutoffs. "Campground had the creek running right behind it and although it was partially frozen over the sound of the running water was so peaceful," reports Maria D. about winter camping at Lower Lehman, where "Drinking water was available at the visitor center."
**Limited supplies in Baker: No major grocery stores exist in the immediate area. "You are literally in the middle of nowhere with a few small towns close buy but nothing really accessible to the park if you need supplies," advises Tom K. about Sacramento Pass Recreation Area.
**High elevation effects: Temperature drops and breathing difficulties may affect some visitors. "This high elevation camp provided great access to trails, beautiful viewpoints, and even a small creek," notes one Wheeler Peak camper, while others mention "chilly nights even during summer months."
Tips for camping with families
**Best sites for children: Baker Creek Campground offers creek access and exploration opportunities. "Sites are situated near the creek and no matter which one your at the bathroom is just a short walk away," notes Yvonne T. about camping with children.
**Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds offer ADA-compliant sites. At Grey Cliffs Campground, "There are 2 ADA Accessible campsites site C3 and A8 both sites are located next to accessible restrooms," according to Dexter I.
**Educational opportunities: Plan for ranger programs at visitor centers. "The jewel of this park during the off/shoulder season is Lehman Cave, with fun ranger-led tours starting right from the visitor center," reports a visitor to Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park.
Tips from RVers
**RV size limitations: Several campgrounds restrict larger vehicles. "Road is not for RV's or trailers. Just after you enter the park on Snake Creek Road a sign clearly indicated no RV's or trailers past the roads first pull out," warns Dexter I. about Snake Creek.
**RV hookup options: Full hookups are limited but available at Whispering Elms. "The park was the only place we could get reservations near Great Basin National Park," notes Shad G., who adds that while bathrooms needed work, "The managers were friendly and made sure we had what we needed."
**Cell service considerations: Coverage varies dramatically by location. Ray & Terri F. report, "AT&T coverage was poor, with 0 to 1 bar of 5GE and speeds of only 0.3 MB/s. We had access all 3 western DISH satellites and Starlink had speeds were up to 11 MB/s" at Sacramento Pass BLM Campground.
