Wheeler Peak Campground sits at 9,900 feet elevation within Great Basin National Park, accessible via a steep, winding road that climbs steadily from the visitor center. The National Park Service charges $20 per night for the 37 sites, which operate on a first-come, first-serve basis during the June through October season. Sites accommodate RVs up to 24 feet and include water hookups, though the rough access road requires careful navigation.
Each paved site features a picnic table and fire ring, with most offering privacy between neighboring campers. "Stars were out in full force when we arrived," recalls Skyeriver, highlighting the dark sky conditions at this high elevation. The campground provides drinking water, pit toilets, and a dump station, though several reviewers note the restroom facilities show wear from heavy use.
Campers gain direct access to multiple trailheads from the campground, including routes to Wheeler Peak, Stella and Teresa Lakes, and the Bristlecone Pine Trail. A small creek runs near some sites, and an amphitheater serves evening programs. The elevation brings cool temperatures even in summer, with overnight lows dropping into the 40s during fall months when aspen trees turn yellow.
The high altitude location means weather changes quickly and temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Several sites near the creek fill first, while others offer views toward Wheeler and Jeff Davis peaks. Cell service reaches the campground, though coverage varies by carrier. For additional camping options in the area, campers can explore campgrounds near Great Basin National Park.
This campground works well for hikers targeting high-elevation trails and stargazers seeking dark skies, though the steep access road and cool nighttime temperatures require preparation regardless of season.
Description
Overview
A stay at the Wheeler Peak Campground is a genuinely memorable experience. Shadowed beneath the hulking cliffs of Wheeler Peak and Doso Doyabi, a pair of Nevadas true alpine monarchs, the views and campsites hover among the clouds. At nearly 10,000 feet in elevation your neighbors are Engelman spruce, mule deer and green meadows; your common distractions tumbling brooks and shimmering aspen leaves. A mile and a half up the trail will place you in the midst of the Wheeler Peak Bristlecone Grove, among trees so ancient that some have absorbed the fanciful hues of over a million sunsets. Take elevation and weather into account before you set out on your hike. Neither towing nor towed vehicles exceeding 24 feet in length are accommodated along the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive or at Wheeler Peak Campground.
Recreation
The drive alone is worth the price of admission, as they say, even though there is no entrance fee at this National Park. The 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive sweeps you over half a vertical mile to the Wheeler Peak Campground, just beneath what may be the most picturesque mountain in Nevada. Take in the view at Mather Overlook along the way. You cant miss it. While the Wheeler Peak Campground is the most distant campground from the surreal Lehman Caves (a 30-minute drive down the mountain) it more than makes up for it in hiking opportunities. Two of the parks most sought-after hikes, the Bristlecone Trail and Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, begin just outside of the campground entrance. The fully accessible .4 mile-long Sky Isalnd Nature Trail also presents a peaceful alternative. Beyond walking, the soundscapes and view-surfing are perfect for lounging, reading or catching up on some sleep after a long drive. Oh, and the caves are just 30 minutes away. If you prefer some less-traveled roads, consider a drive down the Snake Creek (no rvs or trailers) or Baker Creek Roads for such hiking destinations as Baker Lake or Johnson Lake. From the end of these maintained dirt roads, all trails lead to solitude. But be back at your campsite before sunset if you want to enjoy the dusk light show as the sun ignites the towering stone walls of Doso Doyabi, merging slowly into a sky so black that the stars pop in ways you may never have imagined possible. Be sure to make reservations before you arrive, for both the campground and the caves.
Facilities
Wheeler Peak Campground offers paved parking spurs, picnic tables, campfire rings and grills along with vault toilets. While towed vehicles are allowed, neither the towed nor towing vehicle may be over 24 feet in length.
Natural Features
Views of some of Nevadas most picturesque mountains are abundant and never more than a few steps away from your campsite, if that. Bolstered by permanent snow and icefields of the Wheeler Peak cirque the spring serenading you just to the south has cascaded through ancient quartzite which makes up the towering cathedrals above. Stretched out among alpine meadows ringed within a dense forest of Engleman spruce, the Wheeler Peak Campground provides shade at nearly every site while a quick stroll will often reveal mule deer, turkey, or in the autumn weeks the lively orange and gold of shimmering aspen.
Nearby Attractions
Don't forget, Great Basin National Park was forshadowed when Lehman Caves was annointed a National Monument in 1922. The cave and its underground wonders are just thirty minutes away behind the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Access is by tour only so be sure to book a reservation before you arrive, or stop by the visitor center to check on remaining availability.
Fee Info
___ Sites at Wheeler Peak Campground may be reserved up to one month in advance, generally between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Opening is sometimes delayed after heavy winters. The nightly rate is $20. Holders of Golden Age, Golden Eagle, Access, Senior Annual or Senior Lifetime Passes receive 50% off.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundWheeler Peak Campground — Great Basin National Park is located in Nevada
Directions
From the east or west: From U.S. Highway 6 & 50, turn south on Nevada State Highway 487 and travel 5 miles to Baker, NV. In Baker turn west on Highway 488 and travel 5 miles to the park. From the south (Utah): Travel north on Utah State Highway 21 through Milford, UT and Garrison, UT, which will become Nevada State Highway 487 as you cross the border. Turn west on Highway 488 in Baker and travel 5 miles to the park. From the south (Nevada): Travel north on U.S. Highway 93 (Great Basin Highway). At the junction of U.S. Highway 6 & 50 drive east to Nevada State Highway 487 and turn south. Travel 5 miles to Baker, NV. In Baker turn west on Highway 488 and travel 5 miles to the park.
Coordinates
39.01091 N
114.3044 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/5/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/5/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 24 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 30 min from Provo, UT
- 4 hrs 1 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 hrs 29 min from Ogden, UT
