Upper Lehman Campground
4.43180 reviewsUpper Lehman Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nightly rate is $20. Holders of Golden Age, Golden Eagle, Access, Senior Annual, or Senior Lifetime Passes receive a 50% discount....
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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 234-7500GRBA_Interpretation@nps.gov
About this campground
Perched at 7,500 feet where the mountain air runs crisp and clear, Upper Lehman Creek Campground serves as your gateway to Great Basin National Park's most treasured experiences. Here, the melodic rush of Lehman Creek mingles with the whisper of wind through ancient pines, creating nature's own symphony. As evening falls, mule deer emerge from the forest shadows while wild turkeys strut through camp, and the night sky transforms into a glittering tapestry of stars. With Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive and the mystical Lehman Caves just moments away, this high-altitude haven offers the perfect blend of accessibility and alpine adventure.
Upper Lehman Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, small RVs, and trailers. It is not suitable for large RVs or those requiring full hookups.
Historical SignificanceLong before Great Basin National Park captured the imagination of modern adventurers, Lehman Caves National Monument stood as a solitary guardian of these underground wonders since 1922. This campground rests in the shadow of living history—the ancient bristlecone pines that dot the surrounding landscape have witnessed over 4,000 years of seasons, making them among Earth's oldest living organisms. These gnarled sentinels have stood watch as civilizations rose and fell, their twisted forms telling stories of resilience against time itself.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings a delightful paradox to this mountain sanctuary—warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration give way to refreshingly cool nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag. Mountain winds occasionally sweep through camp with dramatic flair, reminding visitors of the raw power of this high-altitude environment. As the season progresses into autumn, the campground's water supply ceases, so late-season adventurers should arrive prepared with their own water reserves for a true backcountry experience.
ElevationAt 7,500 feet above sea level, Upper Lehman Creek Campground occupies a sweet spot in the sky where the air feels lighter and the views stretch endlessly. This elevation gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned summer nights and panoramic vistas that make every sunrise worth the early wake-up call. Here, you'll sleep closer to the stars and wake to alpine meadows kissed by morning light.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled against dramatic limestone ridges where Lehman Creek carves its ancient path, this campground immerses you in a tapestry of high-desert and mountain ecosystems. Towering ponderosa pines mingle with twisted junipers, while groves of quaking aspens shimmer golden in autumn. White firs reach skyward alongside mountain mahogany, creating a diverse forest canopy that shelters both campers and wildlife. The creek itself dances over rocks and through shadows, harboring elusive trout that challenge even experienced anglers with its ever-changing currents and hidden pools.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of the Snake Range, Upper Lehman Creek Campground sits at the foot of ancient limestone cliffs that form the foundation of mighty Wheeler Peak. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry, from the soaring summit of Wheeler Peak to the neighboring giant Doso Doyabi at 12,771 feet. The landscape tells a story written in stone and forest—where pinyon and ponderosa pines root themselves in rocky soil, junipers twist toward the sky, and white firs, aspens, and mountain mahogany create a living mosaic. Alpine streams cascade down from snow-fed sources, including Lehman Creek itself, which has patiently carved its channel through this mountain fortress over countless millennia.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as vault toilets and parking. Specific details about individual campsite accessibility are not available.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; some are large and spacious, while others are noted to be quite small, with limited parking for multiple vehicles or larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across sites. Some campsites are described as secluded and surrounded by trees, while others are noted as being close together with limited foliage for privacy.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers should consider sites 21 and 24 for privacy. Sites next to the creek offer superior ambiance, while RV campers should avoid sites with steep slopes (e.g., site 13).
Best CampsitesCampsite 21 is highly recommended for tent camping due to privacy and proximity to Lehman Creek. Sites 20 and 24 are praised for their secluded locations with creek access on both sides.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per campsite, based on site designations.
Groups
No group-specific campsites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout24 sites spread across loops with varying features. Some sites are near Lehman Creek, offering scenic views and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from April 11 to September 30. Reservable dates start from Memorial Day weekend through the end of September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website and app, or via contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable only during open season; no first-come-first-serve availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival but incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (within 24 hours of check-in) additionally forfeit the first night's use fee. Refunds are not provided for weather-related cancellations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Upper Lehman Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The nearby Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive and Lehman Caves provide additional activities. Fishing is permitted but challenging in the small streams. Seasonal ranger-led astronomy programs are a highlight during summer months.
Hiking
The campground provides convenient access to trails leading to Wheeler Peak and the Bristlecone Pine grove. Trails range from short walks to more challenging hikes, such as the eight-mile Summit Trail.Fishing
Fishing is legal with a Nevada state fishing license. Streams near the campground are difficult to fish, but a longer hike to Baker Lake offers better trout fishing opportunities.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently mention seeing mule deer, wild turkeys, and other wildlife. The area’s diverse ecosystem provides a rich environment for wildlife activity.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led educational programs, particularly astronomy talks, are a highlight during the summer months.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned in the authoritative or user-provided sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Seasonal fire restrictions apply. Fire pits with grills are provided at all sites.
- Quiet hours enforced between 8 PM and 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsYellow jackets present during summer months; precautions advised. High winds can occur, especially overnight. Sloped campsite surfaces may present challenges for RV leveling.
Active alertsSeasonal water outages require visitors to bring water. Fire restrictions may be in place during dry periods. Limited spaces for large RVs.
Weather forecast
36
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Baker, NV, approximately 5 miles away (basic medical services). For comprehensive care, Ely, NV, which is 60 miles away, provides hospitals, police stations, and fire stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11 through September 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available within the campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLehman Creek runs through the campground, creating a soothing soundscape. Fishing is challenging but possible with a Nevada state license.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews cite issues with sloped RV sites making leveling difficult. Lack of potable water during late season and yellow jackets are recurring concerns. Complaints about reserved sites remaining unused.
HostCampground host presence is inconsistent; some reviews appreciate their helpfulness, others note limited engagement.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Convenient via paved roads. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive leading to the campground is fully paved, but steep grades and sharp turns may present challenges for larger vehicles. Generators are restricted from use between 8 PM and 8 AM.Nearby places
Baker, NV: Approx 5 miles, Ely, NV: Approx 60 miles (1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and basic camping supplies in Baker, NV, approximately 5 miles away. Larger stores and services in Ely, NV (1 hour away). Supplies are limited, and prices are high in Baker, so travelers are advised to stock up before arrival.
Camper Reviews
4.4
180 reviews
Upper Lehman Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of the campground, its cleanliness, and proximity to hiking trails and Lehman Caves. However, there are complaints about the lack of potable water, small and uneven campsites, and the reservation system.
Review Summaries
Based on 180 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the serenity of the location, clean vault toilets, stunning starry skies, and proximity to Lehman Creek. Many appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the privacy of...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water on-site, uneven and small campsites unsuitable for larger RVs, and difficulties with the reservation system. Some users also mention issues with...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing ample water and leveling equipment for RVs. They also stress the importance of making reservations early due to high demand and suggest carrying extra stakes to secure...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer receives the highest praise for activities such as stargazing and hiking, but also sees challenges like yellow jackets and the lack of on-site water. Fall offers vibrant foliage and cooler...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Falling asleep to the sounds of Lehman Creek rushing by is sublime." "The vault toilets are the cleanest I’ve ever seen." "Be prepared for no potable water; fill up at the visitor center." "The...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #24 is often mentioned as one of the best due to its privacy and proximity to the creek. Sites #13 and #15 are frequently criticized for being uneven and small, making them unsuitable for RVs.
Based on 180 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the campground does include accessible vault toilets and parking areas.
Based on 180 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. Several users note that pets are restricted from trails and the backcountry, which limits their activities within the park.
Based on 180 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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