Campground

Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

Check Availability

Details

PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA, 92328

Lat:36.236917

Lng:-117.072172

Content provided by

National Park Service

Last Updated: August 4, 2026

Campground Overview

Introduction

***No Potable Water Available in the Wildrose Area. Closest available water ~38 miles north at Stovepipe Wells, CA. First-come, first-served primitive, forested campground with no additional fee located at 7,400' elevation. Accessible to high clearance vehicles (no longer than 25') and 4x4 may be necessary. Closest available water ~38 miles north at Stovepipe Wells. May still be impacted by snowy/icy conditions in late spring.

Campsite Details

Reservable0

First Come First Serve6

Total Sites6

Group0

Horse0

Tent Only0

Electrical Hookups0

RV Only0

Walk/Boat To0

Other0

Operating Hours

Typically open from mid-April through December, pending snowfall.

Weather

Due to high elevation (7,400'), this area may be 30 degrees cooler than the lower Death Valley areas and can be snowy in winter and spring. Check the weather forecast here: https://www.weather.gov/vef/RecDV

Amenities

Trash & Recycling Collection

Toilets

Rates & Fees

$0.00

Thorndike Campground

This primitive campground does not have a nightly fee.

Rules & Regulations

Fire/Stove Policy

Wood fires are only allowed in NPS fire pits (provided). Fires are prohibited in summer months (June 15 to September 15) or other periods of high fire danger. Bring your own wood; firewood collecting is not permitted.

Regulations Overview

Quiet Hours:10 PM to 7 AM. Camping Limits: 1 recreational vehicle w/tow, 2 cars, or 4 motorcycles. 8 people per site. Stay limited to 30 days. No holding or reserving sites. Check-out Time:12 PM Noon Camp Fires: No wood gathering. Fires only in NPS firegrates as provided. Fires must not be left smoldering or unattended. No trash in firegrate. Fire restrictions are in effect from 6/15-9/15. No open flames are allowed in those areas, but controlled flame devices with shut off valves and gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel sources are allowed. Waste Water: No dumping allowed at this location. Pets: Must be confined or on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Do not leave unattended. Allowed along roads, in campground, and in developed areas only. Owners are responsible for cleanup. Food/Trash: unattended food, garbage or cooking equipment must be sealed in a vehicle or a solid container. Do not feed wildlife.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access
This campground includes uneven terrain, high elevation, and steep slopes.
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
This is a high clearance area, with a maximum total length of 25 feet. Winding roadways are present. 4x4 is often required.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
This campground includes uneven terrain, high elevation, and steep slopes.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - 4WD/High clearance required
Classifications
Primitive Camping Areas

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

Explore trip canvas

Destinations

Categories

Quick Links

AAA Travel

Explore AAA