Furnace Creek Campground (Death Valley National Park), California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Furnace Creek Campground is the heart of Death Valley National Park — a desert base camp with surreal scenery, warm winter nights, and the park’s only hookup sites. Located near the visitor center, this campground sits below sea level in one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, yet it’s comfortable from late fall through early spring. Expect open desert views, palm trees, and easy access to Death Valley’s top sights.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Surreal and surprisingly peaceful.” Campers love the mix of convenience and wild beauty — a short stroll to the visitor center, star-filled skies, and surreal desert light. Even without much shade, it’s one of the most comfortable ways to experience Death Valley’s extremes.
Highlights
- Location: walking distance to the visitor center, museum, and resort area.
- Hookups: the only NPS campground in Death Valley with RV hookups.
- Night skies: world-class stargazing — a certified International Dark Sky Park.
- Accessibility: paved roads and level sites, easy for any rig.
Frictions to plan around
- No shade: bring an awning or canopy for midday sun.
- Hot season closure: typically closed May–September due to extreme heat.
- Strong winds: common in spring — secure tents and gear.
- Limited privacy: open desert layout, though wide spacing helps.
Camper Quotes
“Waking up below sea level watching the sunrise glow on Zabriskie Point — unforgettable.”
“Clean, organized, and surreal. Everything felt like Mars.”
“The stars here made the drive worth it alone.”
“Loved having hookups in the middle of nowhere.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 136 total (18 with full hookups; the rest dry sites).
- Hookups: water, sewer, and electric at select RV sites.
- Facilities: flush toilets, potable water, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings, and amphitheater.
- Access: paved roads suitable for RVs up to 35 ft; some pull-throughs available.
- Pets: welcome on leash in camp and along roads (not on trails).
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via Recreation.gov. Open mid-October through mid-April. This is Death Valley’s only reservable campground — and it books out fast for winter weekends and holidays.
Tip: Book as soon as sites open (typically 6 months in advance). Midweek stays in December and January are calm and often sunny.
Best Sites
- Hookup loop (sites 70–88): easy pull-through access, best for RVs.
- Outer rim: open desert views and more privacy.
- Near the amphitheater: convenient for ranger talks and night programs.
Bring your own shade or awning — the sun can be intense even in winter afternoons.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Texas Springs Campground: quieter and generator-free, just up the hill.
- Sunset Campground: large overflow-style area with lots of space.
- Stovepipe Wells Campground: near Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, more rustic.
Map & Directions
From Las Vegas, take NV-160 west to Death Valley Junction, then CA-190 into the park. Furnace Creek Campground is next to the visitor center and the Ranch at Death Valley resort area.
Address: CA-190, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
Furnace Creek FAQ
Are there hookups?
Yes — 18 sites have full hookups (electric, water, sewer).
Is it open year-round?
No, it typically closes from May through September due to extreme heat.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on leash in camp and along roads, but not on trails or in buildings.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes — wide open space, ranger programs, and night sky events make it great for kids.
When’s the best time to visit?
November through March for mild weather and stargazing.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s rumored to hide in the shade of a palm, sipping iced electrolyte water. 👣🌴
