Planning where to stay when visiting Death Valley National Park can greatly impact your experience in this vast and extreme environment. Whether you're looking for luxury lodging within the park boundaries, affordable camping under the stars, or accommodations in neighboring gateway towns, your choice will influence how much time you spend exploring vs. driving. This guide breaks down the best options based on your travel style, budget, and seasonal timing to help you make the most of your adventure. From in-park hotels like The Oasis at Death Valley to first-come, first-served campgrounds and nearby towns like Pahrump and Beatty, there's a perfect stay for every visitor.
In-Park Lodging Options
Resort and Hotel Accommodations
Death Valley National Park offers a limited but memorable selection of in-park lodging options that cater to various comfort levels and travel styles. The primary in-park accommodations include:
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The Oasis at Death Valley – This historic resort features two distinct lodging experiences:
- The Inn at Death Valley is a four-diamond resort offering upscale amenities, newly renovated rooms, fine dining, a spring-fed pool, and spa services. Ideal for those seeking luxury in the middle of the desert.
- The Ranch at Death Valley is a more family-friendly, casual alternative with motel-style rooms, a general store, saloon, and large pool. It’s located near the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, providing easy access to park information and ranger programs.
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Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel – Situated closer to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, this rustic and budget-conscious option offers basic hotel rooms, a general store, saloon, and a seasonal swimming pool. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting convenience without high-end pricing.
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Panamint Springs Resort – A smaller, independently operated option with motel rooms, tent cabins, and a restaurant. Located on the western edge of the park, it offers fewer amenities but more seclusion and dramatic mountain views.
Campgrounds and RV Sites
For visitors seeking a closer connection to the natural environment, Death Valley National Park offers several campgrounds operated by the National Park Service:
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Furnace Creek Campground – The only reservable campground within the park, it provides developed sites with restrooms, water, and a dump station. It’s centrally located, making it convenient for exploring many of the park’s major sites.
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Texas Springs, Sunset, and Stovepipe Wells Campgrounds – These are first-come, first-served sites open during the peak season (generally from October to April), offering basic amenities like picnic tables and flush toilets.
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Mesquite Spring, Emigrant, Wildrose, and Thorndike Campgrounds – These more remote sites vary in accessibility and elevation, with some suitable for tents only. They offer solitude and cooler temperatures, especially in summer months.
RV travelers can find designated spots with hookups at Furnace Creek RV Park (part of the Oasis complex), while dry camping options are available at Stovepipe Wells and Panamint Springs.
Benefits of Staying Inside the Park
Opting for in-park lodging comes with several advantages:
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Proximity to Major Attractions – Sunrise and sunset are among the best times to experience popular sites like Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View. Staying in the park reduces driving time and allows for early starts or late returns without navigating long desert roads in the dark.
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Unique Desert Experience – In-park lodging allows guests to fully immerse themselves in Death Valley’s vast, quiet landscapes, far from city lights and distractions. Stargazing, wildlife encounters, and the peaceful desert ambiance are best experienced within park boundaries.
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Access to Park Services – Being close to visitor centers, ranger-led programs, and emergency services can enhance both safety and educational opportunities during your visit.
Booking Considerations and Seasonal Demand
Lodging inside the park is limited and highly sought after, especially from October through April when temperatures are more moderate. It is strongly recommended to book accommodations several months in advance, particularly for holidays and weekends.
- Reservations for The Oasis and Stovepipe Wells can be made online through their respective websites.
- Furnace Creek Campground can be reserved through Recreation.gov, while most other campgrounds are first-come, first-served.
- Summer stays are less competitive but come with the challenge of extreme heat, often exceeding 110°F (43°C), making early planning and safety precautions essential.
Amenities and Services
While in-park lodging offers remarkable convenience, services vary by location:
- The Oasis at Death Valley offers full-service amenities, including restaurants, a golf course, spring-fed pool, and EV charging stations.
- Stovepipe Wells and Panamint Springs provide basic dining, fuel, and general stores.
- Campgrounds offer limited amenities and often do not include showers or hookups, so campers should come prepared with adequate supplies.
Choosing in-park lodging is ideal for travelers prioritizing convenience, scenic immersion, and proximity to Death Valley’s most iconic landscapes. However, early planning is critical due to limited capacity and high demand during the cooler months.
Camping and RV Accommodations
Campgrounds Inside Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park offers a variety of camping options for both tent campers and RV travelers. There are nine National Park Service (NPS)-operated campgrounds within the park, as well as a few privately managed options. These campgrounds vary in terms of location, amenities, and seasonal availability.
Furnace Creek Campground is the only NPS campground in the park that accepts reservations during the busy season (October 15 to April 15). It provides access to modern amenities such as flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, and dump stations. This campground is also centrally located, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View.
Other popular campgrounds include Sunset, Texas Springs, and Stovepipe Wells. These are typically first-come, first-served and offer more basic amenities. For a more remote experience, Emigrant Campground and Wildrose Campground provide free sites with minimal services, appealing to more experienced or self-sufficient visitors.
It's important to note that many campgrounds, especially at lower elevations, are closed or less comfortable during the summer months due to extreme heat. Always check the National Park Service website for current conditions and seasonal closures before your trip.
RV Facilities and Considerations
RV travelers will find several suitable options both inside and just outside the park. Furnace Creek RV Park, managed by The Oasis at Death Valley, offers full hookups, including water, sewer, and electric service, making it one of the most convenient choices for RV users. Stovepipe Wells Village also has RV sites with hookups, as well as a general store and fuel station.
Many of the NPS campgrounds can accommodate RVs, but only a few offer hookups. For example, Sunset Campground allows RVs up to 30 feet, but does not provide hookups, while Texas Springs accommodates RVs and has a dump station but no hookups.
Visitors should be aware that due to Death Valley’s extreme temperatures and remote location, RV camping requires preparation. It is essential to check your vehicle’s cooling system, bring enough fuel, and ensure your air conditioning is functioning properly. Cell service is limited, and mechanical help may be far away, so self-reliance is key.
Dispersed and Backcountry Camping
For experienced campers seeking solitude, Death Valley allows dispersed camping in certain areas of the park. These sites require a free backcountry permit, which can be obtained at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Dispersed camping is only permitted at least one mile away from paved roads and developed areas, and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles.
Backcountry roads that lead to primitive campsites include places like Hole-in-the-Wall, Warm Springs Canyon, and the Racetrack. These locations often require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles and should not be attempted without proper preparation, as road conditions can change rapidly.
Campgrounds Outside the Park
If campgrounds within Death Valley are full or closed, consider staying in nearby towns such as Beatty, Nevada; Shoshone, California; or Pahrump, Nevada. These communities offer private RV parks and campgrounds with full amenities, including Wi-Fi, laundry, and general stores. While staying outside the park adds some driving time, it can offer cooler temperatures and more services not found in the park.
Booking and Seasonal Tips
Most in-park campgrounds are first-come, first-served, with the exception of Furnace Creek during peak season. Reservations for Furnace Creek can be made through Recreation.gov up to six months in advance. Peak camping season typically runs from October through April when temperatures are cooler. Summer camping is not recommended due to extreme heat, which can exceed 120°F (49°C) during the day.
Arrive early in the day, especially during weekends and holidays, as campgrounds can fill up quickly. Always travel with plenty of water, sun protection, and emergency supplies. For RV travelers, checking road conditions and verifying maximum vehicle length for each campground is crucial.
For the most up-to-date information on campground availability, amenities, and road conditions, consult the National Park Service website for Death Valley.
Gateway Communities and External Lodging
When accommodations inside Death Valley National Park are fully booked or if visitors are seeking more budget-friendly or varied lodging options, several gateway communities located just outside the park offer excellent alternatives. These towns provide a range of hotels, motels, inns, and vacation rentals that cater to different types of travelers, from solo adventurers to families and groups.
Nearby Towns and Their Proximity to the Park
Key gateway communities include:
- Furnace Creek (technically inside the park but also a central hub): Although part of the park, it serves as a primary access point and is close to some of the most visited attractions.
- Pahrump, Nevada: Located about 60 miles east of Death Valley’s eastern entrance, Pahrump offers numerous hotel chains, restaurants, grocery stores, and services. It’s a convenient base for those entering from Las Vegas.
- Beatty, Nevada: Situated about 40 miles from the park’s northeast entrance, Beatty is a small town with budget accommodations, a few dining options, and close access to the historic ghost town of Rhyolite.
- Lone Pine, California: Roughly 100 miles west of Furnace Creek, Lone Pine is ideal for travelers combining a visit to Death Valley with stops in the Sierra Nevada region. It offers more developed lodging options and stunning views of Mount Whitney.
- Shoshone, California: About 30 miles southeast of the park, Shoshone is a small community with limited lodging but a quiet, scenic setting.
Lodging Options in Gateway Communities
Visitors can find a diverse array of accommodations in these towns, including:
- Chain Hotels and Motels: Especially in Pahrump and Beatty, where brands such as Best Western and Motel 6 operate.
- Independent Inns and Lodges: Many towns feature locally-owned accommodations offering a more personalized experience.
- Bed and Breakfasts: For a cozier stay, B&Bs in Lone Pine and Shoshone provide a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
- Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer homes and cabins in nearby areas, which can be a great option for families or longer stays.
Cost Comparison and Value
Staying outside the park often provides better value for cost-conscious travelers. While in-park resorts like The Oasis at Death Valley can be pricey, especially during peak seasons, accommodations in towns like Beatty or Shoshone are generally more affordable. However, visitors should consider the trade-off between cost and convenience, as driving times into the park can add up.
Accessibility to Park Attractions
Choosing a gateway town depends on the areas of the park you plan to explore. For example:
- Pahrump provides good access to the eastern and central parts of the park, including Dante’s View and Zabriskie Point.
- Beatty is closer to the northern park region and Titus Canyon.
- Lone Pine is ideal for those entering from the west or visiting the Panamint Springs area.
Most gateway towns offer paved highway access into the park, but visitors should be prepared for long drives and limited fuel stations within the park boundaries.
Pros and Cons of Staying Outside the Park
Pros:
- Greater variety of lodging types and price points
- Access to full-service grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities
- Flexibility for combining Death Valley with other nearby destinations
Cons:
- Longer drive times to key attractions within the park
- Less immersive experience compared to staying inside park boundaries
- Need for early starts to maximize time in the park
Choosing to stay in a gateway community is an excellent option for those seeking affordability, more amenities, or a base for a broader road trip through the Southwest. However, travelers should weigh these benefits against the convenience and park immersion that in-park lodging offers.
Seasonal Considerations
Choosing where to stay when visiting Death Valley National Park depends significantly on the time of year you plan to visit. The park’s extreme climate can greatly influence both the availability and suitability of accommodations, as well as your overall experience.
Visiting During Peak Season (Late Fall to Early Spring)
The most popular time to visit Death Valley is between mid-October and mid-April. During these months, daytime temperatures are more moderate, often ranging from the 60s to 80s °F (15–30°C), making it ideal for hiking, photography, and sightseeing. Because of this, accommodations both within and near the park tend to fill up quickly. Lodging options like The Oasis at Death Valley (including The Inn and The Ranch) and Stovepipe Wells Village often require reservations several months in advance. Campgrounds such as Furnace Creek Campground may also book out early, especially between November and March.
If you're visiting during this time, it’s crucial to plan ahead and secure your lodging well before your trip. Prices for in-park accommodations are typically higher during peak season due to demand, and some budget-friendly options in nearby towns like Beatty or Pahrump may also see increased rates and limited availability.
Summer Season Challenges (May to September)
Death Valley is known as the hottest place on Earth, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 110°F (43°C) and occasionally reaching upwards of 120°F (49°C). As a result, summer is considered the off-season, and visitor numbers drop significantly. Many accommodations reduce services or close entirely during the peak heat months. For example, The Inn at Death Valley usually closes during the summer, while The Ranch remains open with limited services.
Travelers who choose to visit in summer can often find better deals on lodging due to lower demand. However, it's important to note the risks associated with visiting during this time. Outdoor activities should be limited to early morning hours, and visitors must take extra precautions to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Availability of Campgrounds by Season
Most campgrounds in Death Valley operate seasonally. Furnace Creek Campground is open year-round, but reservations are required during the busy season (October through April). Other campgrounds like Sunset, Texas Springs, and Stovepipe Wells typically open between fall and spring and may close in summer due to extreme heat and low visitor turnout.
Backcountry camping is possible year-round with a free permit, but it’s strongly discouraged in summer months due to dangerous temperatures and lack of shade or water sources.
Nearby Towns and Seasonal Access
Gateway communities such as Pahrump (NV), Beatty (NV), and Lone Pine (CA) offer year-round accommodations, though their popularity also fluctuates with the seasons. These towns may serve as better options during peak months when in-park lodging is full or overpriced, and they provide a safer base during the summer with access to air-conditioned facilities and emergency services.
In winter, while Death Valley itself rarely sees snow, some access roads from higher elevations (like those from Yosemite through the Sierra Nevada) may be closed due to snow, affecting travel plans and lodging accessibility from the west.
Summary of Seasonal Tips
- Book Early for Peak Season: Make lodging reservations several months in advance for travel between October and April.
- Expect Closures in Summer: Check the status of accommodations and services if visiting between May and September.
- Take Advantage of Off-Season Rates: Enjoy lower lodging prices in summer, but be prepared for extreme heat and limited outdoor activities.
- Check Campground Availability: Confirm seasonal operations and reservation policies for public and private campgrounds.
- Plan for Limited Access in Winter: Be aware of seasonal road closures that may affect your route into the park.
Careful consideration of the season will help maximize the comfort, safety, and enjoyment of your Death Valley adventure.
Making Your Decision
When choosing where to stay during your visit to Death Valley National Park, several critical factors can help you make the most informed and satisfying decision. Each traveler’s needs and priorities are different, so understanding your options in light of your travel style, budget, and itinerary is essential.
Factors to Consider
Budget:
Lodging in and around Death Valley varies significantly in price. In-park resorts like The Inn at Death Valley offer luxury experiences but come at a premium. More budget-friendly options, such as campgrounds or motels in nearby towns like Beatty, Pahrump, or Lone Pine, are ideal for travelers seeking savings.
Comfort Level and Travel Style:
If comfort and convenience are top priorities, staying inside the park at a full-service resort or hotel will provide easier access to key attractions, air-conditioned rooms, and on-site dining. However, for adventurous travelers or those seeking a closer connection with nature, camping within the park’s campgrounds (like Furnace Creek or Texas Spring) might be more appealing. Meanwhile, families or groups may prefer vacation rentals outside the park for more space and amenities.
Itinerary and Park Access:
Death Valley spans over 3.4 million acres, so your daily activities should influence your lodging choice. Staying within the park minimizes drive time to major attractions like Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, and Zabriskie Point. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding region or only spend part of your time in the park, accommodations in gateway towns may offer more flexibility.
Seasonal Considerations:
Summer temperatures in Death Valley can soar above 120°F (49°C), making some accommodations less desirable or even closed during the off-season. The most popular and comfortable times to visit are from late fall through early spring. During this period, in-park lodging books up quickly, so early reservations are highly recommended—especially for holidays and weekends.
Length of Stay:
Short trips (1–2 days) are best complemented by in-park lodging to maximize sightseeing time. For longer visits, a hybrid approach—such as staying part of the trip inside the park and the rest in a nearby town—can balance cost, comfort, and logistical convenience.
Best Options for Different Types of Travelers
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Luxury Travelers:
The Inn at Death Valley offers upscale amenities, including a spring-fed pool, fine dining, and spa services, making it ideal for those seeking a premium experience. -
Families and Groups:
Consider The Ranch at Death Valley or vacation rentals in Pahrump, which offer more space and family-friendly amenities. -
Budget-Conscious Travelers:
Campgrounds like Sunset or Stovepipe Wells, or motels in Beatty or Tecopa, offer economical choices while still providing access to the park. -
Adventurers and Photographers:
Staying inside the park allows early morning and late evening access to iconic photo spots with optimal lighting, making Furnace Creek Campground or Stovepipe Wells Village valuable options.
Final Tips
- Book early, especially if visiting between November and March.
- Factor in gas availability and food access—services are limited within the park.
- Consider weather conditions; extreme heat can affect travel plans and lodging availability.
- Always check the National Park Service website or lodging providers for current conditions and alerts.
By evaluating these factors and aligning them with your travel goals, you can ensure a memorable and well-planned visit to Death Valley National Park.
Choosing where to stay when visiting Death Valley National Park depends on your comfort level, budget, and travel goals. In-park lodging offers unmatched access to natural wonders and the awe-inspiring desert atmosphere, while nearby towns provide greater affordability and amenities. Whether you're camping under the stars or relaxing at a resort oasis, careful planning—especially around seasons and availability—will ensure your visit is comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable. Book early, check campground conditions, and always be prepared for the heat and remoteness of this spectacular national park.