Furnace Creek Campground
4.29601 reviewsP.O. Box 579, Death Valley, CA, USA, 92328
Furnace Creek Campground
$30.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual standard sites cost between $30-$44 per night depending on utility hookups. Group sites cost between $40-$60 per night. An additional $10 reservation fee applies.
About this campground
Welcome to Furnace Creek Campground, your gateway to the otherworldly wonders of Death Valley. As the park's only reservable National Park Service campground, this 136-site oasis provides a comfortable basecamp for desert adventurers. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills—essential comforts in this land of extremes. Strategically positioned near the park's most iconic attractions and visitor facilities, Furnace Creek puts you at the heart of Death Valley's most unforgettable experiences.
Furnace Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and group camping areas. It is the only reservable NPS campground in the park.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Harmony Borax Works, where weathered wagons and crumbling structures tell the tale of 19th-century prospectors who wrested white gold from this unforgiving landscape. These historic ruins stand as monuments to human determination, offering a fascinating glimpse into the backbreaking work of borax mining that once drove Death Valley's economy and shaped the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic temperature swings in one of Earth's hottest places. Winter transforms the valley into a desert paradise, with daytime temperatures hovering between a perfect 50-70°F—ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer tells a different story entirely: the mercury regularly soars above 100°F, while even the desert nights refuse to cool below 90°F, creating an environment that challenges and awes in equal measure.
ElevationImagine camping 190 feet below sea level—lower than anywhere else in North America. This unique elevation creates an environment unlike any other, where the air feels heavier, the heat more intense, and the landscape more surreal. Here, in this natural basin, you'll experience the raw power of extreme heat and bone-dry conditions that define one of Earth's most challenging environments.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a Mojave Desert sunrise painting the towering mountains in shades of gold and crimson. From your campsite in this below-sea-level basin, witness nature's artistry across a canvas of sparse desert vegetation, rugged peaks, and endless sky. As day turns to night, the desert transforms again, offering some of the darkest skies and most brilliant sunsets you'll ever encounter—a photographer's dream and a stargazer's paradise.
Geological RegionDeath Valley National Park showcases the Mojave Desert at its most dramatic. This below-sea-level basin, cradled by rugged peaks, tells a geological story millions of years in the making. Marvel at nature's palette in the colorful badlands, where mineral deposits create rainbow-hued hillsides. Explore pristine sand dunes that shift and shimmer in the desert light, and traverse ancient dry lake beds that crack and buckle under the relentless sun. This land of extremes—characterized by record-breaking heat and severe drought—reveals Earth's geological processes in their rawest, most beautiful form.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes ADA-accessible sites with modified fire grates, picnic tables, and level parking surfaces. Specific sites (e.g., 22, 49, 77) are designated for ADA accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites range in size, with options for tents, RVs, and group camping. Full hookup sites include 30/50-amp electrical service, sewer, and water connections.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy due to sparse vegetation and proximity to neighboring campers. The tent-only walk-in sites provide better isolation from RVs.
Total Campsites136 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade, select sites with trees such as #121 and #134. Avoid exposed sites during summer.
Best CampsitesSites in the tent-only walk-in area (e.g., #134, #121) are highly rated for their privacy and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at noon. Reservations marked as no-show if not occupied by noon the following day.
Check-out
Check-out is at noon.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights per visit
- 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 9-40 people and up to 10 vehicles. These sites are generator-free zones.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes loops for tent-only, walk-in, and full-hookup sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, reservable October 15 - April 15. First-come, first-served during summer months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability during summer months. First-come, first-served sites fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyIf canceled the day before or on the arrival date, a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee applies. No-shows incur a $20 fee plus the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Furnace Creek Campground offers a variety of activities, including hiking, stargazing, birding, and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives to nearby attractions such as Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin.
Hiking
The campground is a great starting point for popular trails such as Golden Canyon and Mosaic Canyon. Difficulty levels range from easy to moderate.Biking
A paved one-mile bike path connects the campground to the Harmony Borax Works historical site. Cyclists can explore other areas with designated routes.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can spot local and migratory birds along Airport Road and in the campground area. Coyotes and other desert fauna are also frequently seen.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground is close to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, which offers interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors can walk or bike to the Harmony Borax Works for historical insights.Winter Activities
Winter is an ideal time for hiking and exploring the park's attractions due to cooler temperatures.Water Sports
Water-based recreation is not applicable in Death Valley due to its arid environment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood fires allowed in NPS-provided grates. No wood gathering permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme heat, windstorms, and wildlife like coyotes and ravens. Visitors should practice food safety and remain hydrated.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
110
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include the Furnace Creek Visitor Center which is a short walk from the campground. The nearest hospital is in Pahrump, NV (~50 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesOctober 15 - April 15
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are limited and primarily located near the campground entrance. Some reviews noted inconvenience in accessing these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby natural water features. Potable water available at campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include crowded campsites, limited privacy, restricted generator hours, and occasional cleanliness issues in restrooms.
HostCampground hosts available during peak season (October - April) to assist visitors.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 579, Death Valley, CA, USA, 92328
Driving directionsFrom Las Vegas area, head east on Blue Diamond/Hwy 160 to Pahrump, NV. Continue through Pahrump and then turn left on Bell Vista Road. Take Bell Vista Road as it turns into State Line Road and dead ends at Death Valley Junction. From Death Valley Junction turn right and then a quick left on CA190. Follow CA190 into the park and Furnace Creek. The Furnace Creek Campground is on the left directly past the Visitor Center.
Accessible via paved roads; CA Highway 190 provides direct access. Roads are subject to closures during rare weather events.Nearby places
Las Vegas, NV - 130 miles (~2 hours 15 minutes)
Lone Pine, CA - 106 miles (~2 hours)
Pahrump, NV - 50 miles (~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Furnace Creek Ranch (adjacent to campground) offers a general store with camping supplies, food, and gas. Additional supplies available in Pahrump (~50 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.3
601 reviews
Furnace Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with many praising the campground's central location and cleanliness but noting issues such as cramped sites, insufficient shade, and maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 601 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback highlights the campground's proximity to park attractions, clean facilities, and helpful staff. Stargazing opportunities and well-maintained dishwashing stations are also frequently...
Based on 601 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include lack of privacy between sites, inconsistent restroom maintenance, and limited trash facilities. Some users reported noisy neighbors and enforcement of strict rules.
Based on 601 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood and shade structure. Book reservations early to secure desirable sites, especially during peak season. Consider nearby shower facilities if staying for an extended period.
Based on 601 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter months are favored for their cool weather and clear skies, while summer is generally avoided due to extreme heat.
Based on 601 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This campground is central to everything in Death Valley." "The night sky views are unmatched." "Campsites are too close together, making it hard to relax."
Based on 601 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 121 is praised for its shade and privacy, while sites like 134 offer excellent isolation within the tent-only walk-in loop. RV sites with hookups are noted as convenient but often booked quickly.
Based on 601 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites are appreciated for their thoughtful design, with level parking and modified amenities.
Based on 601 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Some reviews noted the presence of coyotes, cautioning pet owners to remain vigilant.
Based on 601 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025