Great Basin National Park sits at high elevations ranging from 6,200 feet at the visitor center to over 13,000 feet at Wheeler Peak. The area experiences dramatic temperature changes with summer days reaching the 80s while nights drop into the 40s even in July. Most pet-friendly camping options near the park operate seasonally between May and October due to harsh winter conditions at these elevations.
What to do
Stargazing at higher elevations: Wheeler Peak Campground at nearly 10,000 feet provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are amazing at night time! And another highlight...there are barely any people here! It is a quiet place with no crowds," notes Kelly R. about Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
Hiking with pets on permitted trails: While dogs are restricted from most trails within the park, the Sacramento Pass Recreation Area offers pet-friendly hiking options. "Hiked the Sac Pass trail and Lucky Boy trail right outside our camping spot," reports Kailey C. about Sacramento Pass Recreation Area.
Cave tours at Lehman Caves: Reserve tickets well in advance as these often sell out. "Make sure to check out Lehman cave... Lehman cave was awesome and well worth the hike," recommends Cj C. about Lower Lehman Campground. Tours run year-round and require advance reservations.
What campers like
High-elevation camping experience: Wheeler Peak offers tent camping at approximately 10,000 feet. "Quietest campground I've ever been... Only one downfall is that a lot sites are not level but don't let that detour you," shares Heather F. about Wheeler Peak Campground.
Creekside sites for natural cooling: Many campers appreciate the natural air conditioning provided by creek proximity. "Sites are situated near the creek and no matter which one you're at the bathroom is just a short walk away," explains Yvonne T. about Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
Pet-friendly dispersed options: Free alternatives exist for those seeking more primitive accommodations with pets. "Very clean dispersed camping. There are many different sites. Even has restrooms. The best sites are further back in the forest don't stop at the main section just off the road," advises Matt G. about Sacramento Pass BLM Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Come prepared with offline maps and information. "No cell, no internet, no nothing, no gas for miles," warns LoneCamper C. about Squirrel Springs Campsites.
High elevation effects: Altitude sickness can affect humans and pets alike. "High elevation can be a problem but worth it if you can handle it," notes Patricia N. about Upper Lehman Creek Campground.
Early arrival recommended: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Got there in mid afternoon and got one of the last remaining sites," reports Pat S. about Wheeler Peak Campground.
Water availability varies: "The water faucets weren't working, but since we were just there for one night, this was fine for us," explains Sarah L. about Lower Lehman Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Lower elevation options: For families with young children or those sensitive to altitude, consider lower elevation sites. "Lower Lehman Campground was pretty primitive and nothing special but was beautiful at night. We saw more stars than I've ever seen before," writes Cj C.
Weather preparedness: Pack for significant temperature swings. "We stayed here for a couple of nights and had the campgrounds to ourselves for the most part. Our site had the creek running right behind it and although it was partially frozen over the sound of the running water was so peaceful," shares Maria D. about Whispering Elms Motel, Campground, & RV Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning wildlife encounters are common and exciting for children. "Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. There is trash cans and dumpsters available. The sites were fairly spaced out and most afforded a bit of privacy," notes Pat S. about Wheeler Peak.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Most of parking pads are not very level (to help with snow melt) in the upper campground, so it made it quite challenging to level our little camper," warns Shari G. about Upper Lehman Creek.
Off-park alternatives: When the national park campgrounds are full, try nearby options. "Very convenient for visiting Great Basin NP. Only option that had full hookups and allowed reservations (essential as we had our dog with us and wanted to be able to run AC, no dogs allowed on most of the trials in the NP)," explains LH about Whispering Elms.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "The spots are large enough, lot of dust as there is no grass, just gravel. The highlight is that it is located across from the entrance to Great Basin National Park. What a location!" notes Theo A. about accommodations for pet-friendly camping near Great Basin National Park.
