Backcountry

Death Valley has seemingly endless backcountry roads and opportunities for backcountry camping and backpacking.

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Backcountry Details

Death Valley National Park offers a vast and diverse landscape for backpackers seeking solitude and adventure in one of the most unique environments on Earth. The park's backcountry roads and trails present endless opportunities for exploration, but it's crucial to prepare and follow specific guidelines to ensure a safe and environmentally responsible experience. Backpacking Permits and Group Size Backcountry Permits: While free, backcountry permits are required for backpacking in Death Valley. These can be obtained at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center or the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station. Permits help park rangers know your plans, which is crucial for safety in such a remote area. Group Limits: Overnight groups are limited to 12 people and no more than four vehicles. This restriction helps minimize impact on the fragile desert ecosystem. Camping Guidelines Campfires: Open fires are prohibited in the backcountry to prevent wildfires and reduce impact. Campstoves are allowed for cooking. Leave No Trace: Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is vital in preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the park. Camping Locations: Camp at least a mile from any paved road or "day use only" dirt road, and use previously disturbed areas to reduce your impact. Campsites should be 100 yards from water sources to protect them for wildlife use. Avoiding Flash Flood Areas: Do not camp in dry washes or drainages, as flash floods pose a serious risk. Vehicle Parking: Keep vehicles adjacent to roadways to minimize disturbance to the land. Prohibited Camping Areas Certain areas in Death Valley are designated as "day use only" or are completely off-limits for camping to protect sensitive environments or historical sites. These include: Specific Dirt Roads: Such as Titus Canyon Road, Mosaic Canyon Road, and others listed. Historic Mining Areas: Including Keane Wonder Mine and Lost Burro Mine, among others, for safety and preservation reasons. Valley Floor Restrictions: From Ashford Mill to two miles north of Stovepipe Wells, camping is not allowed to protect this highly visible and sensitive area. Safety and Preparation Water: Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day, more if hiking during the hot months. Water sources in the desert are scarce and unreliable. Avoiding Heat: Low elevation hiking and camping are strongly discouraged between May and October due to extreme temperatures.

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