Lower Lehman Campground
4.4387 reviewsNone
Lower Lehman Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Sites are $20 per night. Holders of Golden Age, Annual Senior, Lifetime Senior, or Access Passes pay a reduced rate of $10 per night.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider775 234-7331
About this campground
Nestled in the cool embrace of Lehman Creek's riparian corridor, Lower Lehman Campground offers an intimate escape at 7,300 feet where mountain air meets ancient waters. This peaceful retreat features just a handful of sites tucked beneath towering white firs and fragrant junipers, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with pit toilets and no potable water, its prime location serves as your basecamp for exploring the wonders of Lehman Caves, conquering the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, and discovering miles of pristine hiking trails that wind through this high-elevation paradise.
Lower Lehman Creek Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites suitable for both RVs and tents. The campground is small, with only 11 campsites, and provides a tranquil, natural setting.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience connects you to a legacy that began in 1922 when Lehman Caves first captured the nation's imagination as a National Monument. Today, as part of Great Basin National Park, this landscape tells stories spanning millennia—from the ancient limestone formations that cradle the famous caves to the Indigenous peoples who first knew these mountains' secrets. The nearby Lehman Caves remain a crown jewel, where intricate formations have been sculpting themselves in darkness for over 550 million years, waiting to reveal their underground palace to modern explorers.
Weather and SeasonsAt 7,300 feet, Lower Lehman welcomes visitors with refreshingly cool summer days that provide sweet relief from desert heat below. As daylight fades, the mountain air takes on a crisp quality that calls for cozy campfires and warm layers—even in July and August, you'll want to pack that extra fleece. The elevation creates its own microclimate where afternoon clouds often gather, bringing brief showers that enhance the creek's melodic flow and release the intoxicating scent of pine and sage.
ElevationPerched at 7,300 feet above sea level, Lower Lehman Campground exists in a remarkable 'sky island' ecosystem where mountain meets desert in dramatic fashion. This elevation creates a biological oasis where species typically separated by hundreds of miles converge, offering cooler temperatures that average 20-30 degrees below the valley floor. Here, thin mountain air carries the scent of conifers while hawks and eagles soar at eye level, reminding visitors they've ascended into a realm where the ordinary rules of the desert no longer apply.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds like a hidden garden where Lehman Creek dances over smooth stones, creating a soundtrack of perpetual motion beneath canopies of white fir, twisted juniper, and aromatic pinyon pine. Towering limestone ridges frame the horizon, their ancient faces catching alpenglow at sunset while providing a dramatic backdrop for your wilderness retreat. Dense tree cover filters sunlight into dappled patterns across the forest floor, where wildflowers bloom in protected pockets and the occasional deer pauses to drink from the creek's crystal waters. This verdant ribbon of life stands in stunning contrast to the austere beauty of the surrounding high desert.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Snake Range, Lower Lehman occupies a geological wonderland where water has carved its signature through millennia of patient work. The campground's riparian ecosystem thrives where Lehman Creek has etched its path through ancient seabeds, now lifted thousands of feet skyward. Limestone ridges tell tales of prehistoric oceans, including the massive formation that anchors 12,771-foot Doso Doyabi, standing sentinel over this sky island environment. At 7,300 feet, you're camping atop layers of Earth's history, where tectonic forces have created a unique meeting ground of ecosystems—a place where mountain streams nurture unexpected pockets of lush vegetation in the heart of the Great Basin's typically arid expanse.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible parking and campsites but detailed information regarding the extent of accessibility features is unclear. Vault toilets are mentioned as easily accessible.
Sites SizeSites are described as large, with six out of 11 sites being paved and pull-through, suitable for RVs. Specific reviews note the spaciousness of some sites: "Our site was huge and very nice."
Sites PrivacySites provide a good level of privacy, with natural vegetation and adequate spacing between campsites: "The spaces were spread out with natural vegetation and trees. So peaceful and quiet!"
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider Site #10 for its ample space and creekside location. Site #3 is ideal for privacy and scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite #10 is frequently praised for its large flat space, creek proximity, and additional amenities like two picnic tables. Site #3 also receives positive mentions for its privacy and proximity to the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in policies not explicitly stated
- ensure to bring reservation confirmation.
Check-out
Check-out policies not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific information provided.
Groups
Group campsites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 11 sites, including six pull-through sites suitable for RVs. Sites are spaced to provide privacy, with natural vegetation acting as buffers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's use fee in case of late cancellations. Late cancellations begin midnight one day prior to check-in.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Lower Lehman Creek can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including nearby hiking trails, stargazing under the park’s dark skies, and day trips to Lehman Caves and other nearby attractions. Fishing is also an option, though challenging due to the park's small, brushy streams.
Hiking
Several hiking options are available nearby. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive provides access to trails like the Bristlecone Trail and the Summit Trailhead. The Summit Trail offers a challenging eight-mile hike to Wheeler Peak, while shorter trails like the one to Stella and Theresa Lakes are suitable for more casual hikers. User reviews highlight the excellent hiking opportunities: "Really enjoyed the Bristlecone Trail and Glacier Lakes Trail."Fishing
Fishing is permitted with a Nevada state fishing license but is described as challenging due to the park’s small, brushy streams. A day-long hike to Baker Lake (12 miles roundtrip) is recommended for more rewarding trout fishing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with deer, wild turkeys, and other animals frequently spotted. One camper noted, "We saw 3 deer near our site and a bunch of wild turkeys!"Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs, including astronomy presentations, are a major attraction during the summer. Visitors rave about these events: "The astronomy presentation was amazing!" and "The ranger-led night sky program was excellent."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned for the campground.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are described for Lower Lehman Creek Campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may be in effect due to dry conditions; campfires are otherwise allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 8 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available, so visitors must bring their own. Leveling RVs may be challenging in some sites due to slopes. Wildlife, including deer and turkeys, is present in the area. Fire restrictions may apply during dry conditions.
Active alertsFire bans may be in effect due to drought conditions.
Weather forecast
37
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are likely in Baker, NV, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available and conveniently located. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, so it is unclear whether they are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLehman Creek runs through the campground, offering opportunities for relaxation and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention challenges with uneven campsites and the lack of potable water. Some reviews express frustration with the reservation system and site availability issues.
HostNo campground host is present at Lower Lehman Campground.
Campground Map
None
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Accessible via paved roads; no seasonal closures mentioned. Roads are suitable for all vehicle types, though visitors driving RVs may need to navigate carefully due to site inclines.Nearby places
Baker, NV is approximately 5 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, including groceries and fuel, may be available in Baker, NV, 5 miles away. Limited services available within Great Basin National Park.
Camper Reviews
4.4
87 reviews
Lower Lehman Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely appreciated for its natural beauty, proximity to Lehman Creek, and dark skies. Reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the privacy of campsites. However, some criticisms include issues with unlevel sites and the lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews
What Campers Love
Praised for its "beautiful creek flowing through," "secluded and quiet sites," and "Dark Sky Park with amazing stargazing opportunities." Vault toilets are consistently noted as "clean and...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns about unlevel campsites are common: "Leveling blocks definitely came in handy." Other complaints include the absence of potable water and occasional issues with campsite reservations being...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water as there is no potable water on-site. Reviewers recommend site 10 for its proximity to the creek and extra space: "Our spot (#10) was amazing." Stargazing and attending...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is ideal for stargazing and ranger programs but can have inconsistent temperatures with hot days. Fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler weather. Winter and early spring may limit...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The spaces were spread out with natural vegetation and trees. So peaceful and quiet!" "The vault toilet must have been the cleanest pit toilet I have ever seen." "Our stay was around the end of...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is frequently highlighted as one of the best spots: "It had 2 picnic benches and a large flat space with tree coverage for our tent, which was really close to the creek." Site 8 is also noted...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible parking and campsites are provided, but detailed reviews about accessibility are limited. Various mentions of vault toilets being user-friendly may indicate some level of accessibility for...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and attended at all times. Some reviewers note the park’s restrictions on pets: "Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry, but can be walked on paved...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Last updated November 24, 2025
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