Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

4.40

12 reviews

PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA, 92328, USA

Featured in:Death Valley Camping Near Death Valley National Park

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No additional fee for camping; campground is first-come, first-served.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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Provider

(760) 786-3200deva_information@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 12 reviews

13 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulclean

Some mention

noisebugs

"Thorndike Campground is praised for its serene environment, higher elevation (leading to cooler temperatures), and clean vault toilets. However, some users noted the inconvenience of the lack of water and occasional disturbances from noisy campers on busy weekends."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA, 92328, USA

Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA, 92328, USA

Driving directionsThorndike Campground (Primitive) directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/thorndike-campground.htm.

Accessible to high-clearance vehicles no longer than 25 feet; 4x4 may be necessary. May still be impacted by snowy/icy conditions in late spring.

Nearby supplies

Closest available water is approximately 29 miles north at Emigrant Rest Area.

Best Time to Camp at Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

While Death Valley's floor sizzles, Thorndike offers a dramatic climate shift with crisp mountain air and temperatures hovering between 35°F and 49°F. This alpine microclimate creates a refreshing escape where morning frost gives way to comfortable afternoons. Though snow and rain grace these heights occasionally, adding to the mountain mystique, visitors in late spring should come prepared for possible icy conditions—a surreal contrast to the desert below. Pack layers and embrace the unexpected weather that makes each visit unique.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Provides cool escape from Death Valley heat; users note noticeably cooler summer temps.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Alpine microclimate and pleasant cool conditions make fall a very good season to visit.

Spring(Mar-May)

2.0 / 5

Spring is often very cold; late spring may have snow/ice that impacts access and camping comfort.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Cold nights and occasional snow/ice can affect access; not focused on winter recreation.

Planning Tips

About Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

Escape the scorching heat of Death Valley's floor and discover the hidden sanctuary of Thorndike Campground, perched at a refreshing 7,400 feet elevation. This peaceful, first-come, first-served retreat offers adventurous souls a chance to experience Death Valley's rarely seen forested highlands. With established fire pits perfect for evening gatherings and well-maintained vault toilets, this primitive campground provides just enough amenities while preserving the authentic wilderness experience that draws visitors seeking solitude among the pines.

Thorndike Campground is a primitive camping site, primarily designed for tent camping and smaller RVs or vehicles with high clearance.

Weather and SeasonsWhile Death Valley's floor sizzles, Thorndike offers a dramatic climate shift with crisp mountain air and temperatures hovering between 35°F and 49°F. This alpine microclimate creates a refreshing escape where morning frost gives way to comfortable afternoons. Though snow and rain grace these heights occasionally, adding to the mountain mystique, visitors in late spring should come prepared for possible icy conditions—a surreal contrast to the desert below. Pack layers and embrace the unexpected weather that makes each visit unique.

ElevationAt 7,400 feet above sea level, Thorndike Campground stands as one of Death Valley's best-kept secrets—a cool mountain refuge where temperatures can be 40-50 degrees cooler than the infamous valley floor. This dramatic elevation gain transforms the landscape from barren desert to verdant forest, offering visitors a chance to experience Death Valley's incredible ecological diversity in a single trip.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into an unexpected wonderland where towering pine trees replace the desert's Joshua trees and cacti. This forested oasis creates a natural cathedral of shade and serenity, with pine-scented breezes rustling through the canopy overhead. While specific viewpoints remain nature's secret, the surrounding forest frames glimpses of Death Valley's dramatic terrain, reminding visitors of the remarkable contrast between the cool mountain sanctuary and the vast desert expanse below.

Geological RegionNestled in Death Valley National Park's mountainous backbone, Thorndike Campground showcases the park's stunning geological diversity. At 7,400 feet, this forested haven sits atop ancient rock formations that tell the story of Death Valley's complex past—from ocean floor to mountain peak. The campground's location in this elevated terrain creates a unique ecosystem where mountain forests thrive above one of Earth's hottest and driest places, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the vertical worlds contained within America's largest national park outside Alaska.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Groups

There is no mention of designated group camping sites or specific details about capacity.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis with limited camping spots available. Gets busier on weekends and holidays.

AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features at this campground.

Site SizeThe size of campsites varies. Some users have mentioned that not all sites are flat, and certain sites may be better suited to tents rather than trucks or vans.

PrivacyThe campsites are described as more private compared to nearby Mahogany Flat Campground. However, some reviewers noted that the campground can get busy during weekends and holidays, reducing the sense of seclusion.

Recommended SitesNot all sites are flat. Some are better for tents than for trucks and vans.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Thorndike Campground offers a tranquil camping experience with opportunities for campfires, stargazing, and nature observation due to its high elevation and secluded setting.

Wildlife viewingGiven its forested and elevated location, wildlife viewing is likely, though no specific species or viewing tips are mentioned.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"Limited camping spots available so make sure you get there before sunset." Snowy/icy conditions possible in late spring. 4x4 vehicles may be recommended.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Thorndike Campground (Primitive)

Reviews

4.4

12 reviews

Recommended

Thorndike Campground (Primitive) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Thorndike Campground is praised for its serene environment, higher elevation (leading to cooler temperatures), and clean vault toilets. However, some users noted the inconvenience of the lack of water and occasional disturbances from noisy campers on busy weekends.

Review Summaries

Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the cooler temperatures compared to the valley floor, the excellent cleanliness of the vault toilets, and the peaceful and scenic nature of the campground. One user stated, 'Best...

Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative aspects included the lack of running water, the challenges of accessing the site without a high-clearance vehicle, occasional noisy groups, and the presence of many bugs during certain...

Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a campsite as spots are limited. Bring plenty of water, as there is no on-site source. Prepare for cold nighttime temperatures, even in spring. Avoid weekends and holidays for...

Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground tends to be colder at night throughout the year, particularly in spring. Late spring may have snowy or icy conditions impacting access. Mid-week visits are recommended for a less...

Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Each spot has an established fire pit as well.' 2. 'It gets COLD at night - be prepared.' 3. 'A bit more private compared to the Mahogany campsite a bit higher up... Very clean drop toilet.' 4....

Based on 12 reviews