Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
Mesquite Springs Campground
Mesquite Spring Campground is one of the quieter, more scenic developed options in Death Valley National Park—especially appealing if you want to escape the busier Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells areas.
Geographic Description
Located in the northern part of the park at about 1,800 feet elevation, the campground sits roughly 2 miles off Scotty’s Castle Road (also known as North Highway) below Grapevine Canyon. It is surrounded by desert mountains, open washes, low desert scrub, and occasional mesquite trees, with expansive skies and mountain backdrops. Sites are generally well-spaced (many separated by desert vegetation or rock borders) on dirt/gravel pads along or near a dry wash. The higher elevation makes it noticeably cooler than the valley floor (Furnace Creek sits near sea level or below), and the remote setting delivers excellent stargazing with minimal light pollution. Winds can be common, and natural shade is limited.
It is the northernmost developed campground in the park and serves as a solid base for exploring the less-visited northern reaches.
Amenities
- Sites: Approximately 30–40 first-come, first-served sites suitable for tents, cars, and RVs (most sources indicate RVs up to about 30–35 feet; some larger rigs have managed it). Each site typically has a picnic table and fire ring/grate.
- Water: Potable water available (spigots/filling station).
- Restrooms: Flush toilets (generally reported as clean); dishwashing sinks at restrooms. No showers.
- Other: RV dump station, trash/recycling collection. No electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Pets allowed. Generator hours typically 7 a.m.–7 p.m.; quiet hours 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Fees: Around $20 per night standard (often $10 with Senior/Access Pass). Pay at the self-serve automated kiosk (credit/debit card; no cash). Park entrance fee is separate.
- Other notes: No cell service or Wi-Fi. Bring your own firewood (gathering is prohibited). Stay limit is typically 30 days.
Overall vibe is “no-frills done right”—basic but functional amenities in a peaceful desert setting rather than a crowded parking-lot feel.
Best Times to Visit
Fall through early spring (roughly October–mid-March/April) is ideal. Days are mild to warm and nights are cool to chilly (pack layers). This window offers the most comfortable temperatures, clear skies for stargazing, and occasional spring wildflowers. Weekends and holidays in peak season can fill up, so arrive earlier in the day for better site selection (sites along the wash tend to be larger and get afternoon shade first).
Summer is possible due to the elevation (one of the better higher-elevation options when valley-floor campgrounds close or become extreme), but days can still be very hot and windy. Winter nights can drop significantly. The campground is open year-round.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Ubehebe Crater (and Little Hebe Crater) — Short drive (about 5–6 miles / ~20 minutes). Volcanic maar crater with rim hiking and colorful walls.
- Scotty’s Castle (Death Valley Ranch) — Nearby in Grapevine Canyon. The historic site has been largely closed since a major 2015 flood (with additional fire damage later). As of late 2026, limited guided exterior grounds tours are offered on most weekends (October through mid-April); full interior reopening is projected no earlier than around November 2028. Check current NPS info and reserve tours in advance if interested.
- Racetrack Playa — Famous moving rocks. A longer, rough dirt-road day trip (high-clearance/4WD recommended; bring spare tire, water, and emergency communications).
- Other northern park features and backcountry exploration opportunities. Note that some access routes (e.g., from Nevada via Highway 267/Grapevine Canyon) have experienced closures due to flood recovery—verify current road conditions.
Tips: Arrive with supplies (closest services are distant). Download offline maps. Stake tents securely against wind. The relative solitude, dark skies, and proximity to northern attractions make this a favorite among many visitors seeking a more authentic desert camping experience away from the main tourist hubs. Always check the official NPS Death Valley page for current conditions, alerts, and fees before you go.
| Campground Name | Mesquite Springs Campground |
| Latitude, Longitude | 36.96303, -117.36840 |
| Address | P.O. Box 579 Death Valley, CA 92328 |
| Number of Sites | 40 |
| Elevation | 1800 |
| Reservations | No |
| Amenities | Flush Toilets, Fire Rings, Tables |
| Website | https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/mesquite-spring-campground.htm |
Mesquite Springs Campground Map
Camping Tents
My wife and I just got back from a camping trip in Death Valley National Park a few weeks ago. During this trip, for the first time we used a new “Family Sized” doom tent. The camping tents sleeps 6 people, is tall enough for me to stand up, came with a rain fly and outside vestibule. The new tent certainly had it all, which also caused me to think back to all the tents I have used and known.
Pup Tents
The earliest and oldest tent I have used was a 1950’s era pup tent my father used in the Boy Scouts during the late 1950’s. The tent was nothing more than a piece of green canvas, two polls, wooden stakes and some string. The tent had no floors and no doors at either end. I used this tent once when I was about 9 years old, in my back yard. My dad helped me set it up in our backyard. From what I remember, it took about 10 hours to set. Most of this was watching my confused dad trying to remember how it was supposed to work. As I recall several of the wooden stakes split in the touch enriched soil of our backyard lawn. Once erected, and musty and the smell of mildew filled the air, but after a few hours it was aired out enough to crawl underneath. There was only enough room for my sleeping bag, and the tent was just tall enough that I could crawl underneath looking much like a WW2 G.I. going underneath the barbed wire.
That night, I slept under the “stars” in Los Angeles, CA. It was a mild fall evening as I recall, yet somehow my dads old pup tent managed to make it colder. Now having any doors meant that our cat could wander in during the night and scare me, which he did. I woke up early in the morning, went inside the house and finally got some sleep. I do not know whatever happened to this tent. It was better than nothing, but just barely.
Family Tents
During the late 70’s my family went camping a lot with my cousins. I don’t recall the true “owner” of tent, but the group had a family style tent. This thing was huge and seemed perfectly suited to host a sultan and his harem. Anyways, this thing was a beast and required a troop of 6 to move it into place. I know for a fact that when it was collapsed from the previous trip my mom and/or aunt would spend a hour sweeping out all the dust,dirt and grime brought in by four boys, It always confused me that each time we setup the tent again, we unfolded it to a cloud of dust and it was dirty inside.
These were great tents if weight was no object, but I suspect that these tents would not do well in a breeze yet alone a windy night. There was a complex exoskeleton of polls which could never be assembled unless you had a masters in engineering. There was one large door, and a floor, which is a much needed feature over my dads pup tent. I don’t remember any windows, but I do recall that unlike my dads pup tent which “cooled the air”, this tent always ran HOT.
Modern Pup Tent
Prior to a spot horse packing trip in the early 1980’s. Dome tents had yet to come into their own. My folks purchased two pup tents for the trip. The modern version of the pup tent was constructed with rip stop nylon and did include a floor, short side walls, a closed off back along with a door and screen door. The tent did not include any sort of rain fly, so my folks made one witch attach using a three inch standoff my dad built on his lathe. This proved very important as during the trip we were deluged with rain.
Dome Tents
Dome tents have dominated the market since they were introduced to the market. They range in size from small two man models to large family sized. They may contain multiple rooms, vestibules and some have a small door to access an ice chest to gain access to a much needed beverage. All in all they are the best of the best, strong, flexible and lightweight.
Many years ago I was camping with a boy scouts at the annual desert caravan, which was a large camp out with scouts from around southern CA. There were probably 800 campers there that weekend. The previous year high winds buffeted our campsite, and learning from the previous year I came prepared. During the day I erected my dome tent which was about six feet tall. Knowing the winds were coming, I ran a guy wire from each of the polls out 50 feet. Whenever possible, I would tie it down to a sage bush. So, I effectively had my tent anchored to the earth in a 50 foot radius all around. A few of my friends made fun of me for my setup.
And then the winds came….
Throughout the night, the winds howled. It was far, far worse than any previous year. It was difficult to sleep with the sound of the wind buffeting the tent. After a long and sleepless night, I emerged from my tent to discover the damage done by the winds that night. It wipe out the camp, the entire dessert caravan. Outhouses were lifted and thrown 100 feet, and broke car windshields. Worst of all, every tent was broken, torn and shattered by the wind. Tent poles were split, bowed and broken. Every tent was wiped out…. except mine.
Maps and Communications
In the days of tablet computers and smart phones, it is trendy to rely on the latest technology rather than maps and communications. There is nothing wrong with that, however, it is still important to maintain a backup plan. For example, any device that relies on cell phone tower will be virtually useless in the back country.
There are methods with image caching, that you can utilize these types of devices when the cell signal is unavailable, which is great. But if you plan for the eventuality that at some point that device will fail, or the batteries die or you visit Death Valley, you will be significantly better off carrying maps and communications radio gear with you.
Maps
The best backup plan is a quality map of the area you are going to be in. Part of any good trip into a new area involvces planning, what better way to plan a trip, is to lookup the area and learn more about it. There are a variety of websites which offer topomaps, such as mytopo.com not to mention that you can order high quality Topograph maps online. Maps such as these offer a valuable look into the area, and provide a level of detail not found on most tablets or GPS units.
Compass
It is always a good idea to carry a compass. A compass makes it easier to use the maps you have, or with general familiarity of the area area valuable tool to get unlost. Should you be willing to drop $400 on an iPhone or the latest tablet, spend another $4 and have a backup, which is probably more useful.
Radio
Family Radio, CB and HAM radios are huge assets in the back country. Locations such as Death Valley’s Racetrack valley don’t even try to offer cell service. Turning a cell phone on in locations like this, will just drain your battery turning your phone into a poor paper weight.
Family Radio (FRS) – Family Radio is very popular, and the radios can be purchase in pairs from almost any large department store for about $50. The radios are small, cheap and light weight and has no licensing requirements. They are limited to short little antannes and .5 watts of power. As a result, the range is limited, but work well in open areas over short distances.
Citizens Band (CB) – Citizens Band or CB radio is probably the standard communication system with many backraoding groups. Frequently, clubs will require a CD radio in order to join. The Radios can be purchased online or from some electonics stores, starting at $75. There is no regulartory limit on the antannae systems, unlike the FRS. In the United States, the Radios are limited to 4 Watts for AM service. There is no license requirement for CB Radio
Amatuer or HAM Radio – If you really what to reach out and touch someone, then Ham Radio is the way to go. However you are required to get a license and pass a test to operate these radios. Ham Radio’s may be purchased online or from a local electronics store. Mobile UHF/VHF units start at about $180 and can come with up to 75 Watts of power. Additionally the use of repeaters allow the HAM operator to bounce their radio signal thousands of miles.
Additionally licenses for HAM Radio opens up the HF bands. Mobile HF radios tend to start at $500 for the radio, and the car may need to be modified to operated the radio correctly. One of the many benefits of HF Radio is the ability to communicated beyond the horizon without the need for a repeater. Maps and communication gear is important, if you know how to use it.
For those interested in getting a HAM radio license, the practices tests can be found at: https://hamexam.org/exam/12-Technician.
Old Mojave Road Trip Report
After our recent trip to the center section of the Old Mojave Road, my wife Heather was really excited to run the western section and complete the entire length of the trail. Her idea was to drive the western section on our way to our annual trip to Big Bear, CA over the Memorial Day holiday. I worried that such a trip during this time of year could be a rough trip due to high temperatures in the desert. In late April we finished the center section in Baker, CA and the air temperature was only 107 degrees. Despite my concerns, we gladly planned our trip and embraced her good idea.
As we prepared for our trip, gathered our gear, food, and checked out the mechanics of the jeep, I decide to check the local weather report. To my surprise, weather.com predicted the temps in the mid 80s with clear sky’s and light wind. The weather could not be any better.
Another interesting development, is that Heather kept offering to drive in the event I got tired of driving. She didn’t just offer once, but several times per day for several days before our departure. Being the good husband that I am, after about twenty or thirty offers, I started to get the idea that, subconsciously, Heather might want to drive this run. So after some arm twisting and bartering, I finally convinced her and Heather agreed to take the wheel. This of course, would be a great source of confusion for me during the trip, however I am certain I can persevere this new dynamic. This is not to imply that Heather is not one of the finest drivers I know, far from it.
An old trail leads off through the lava and into the great unknown.
All packed up, we left the Las Vegas area at 7:00 am on Saturday morning, and headed towards Baker. A quick stop in Baker, we topped off the fuel tank and took our respective bathroom breaks. Once Heather reminded me that she was driving this trip, I took my seat on the right had side of the jeep and we headed down Kelbaker Road.
It took me a few miles, but soon I became used to having my coffee cup on the wrong side, no pedals, eta… This must be what it is like in England. The map and guide-book took some getting used to as well, but somehow I managed to get us to the trail head. It certainly didn’t hurt that we were here just a few weeks before. A quick turn on to the trail, and we stopped to air down the tires for some ride comfort.
After dreaming of this trip for the past few weeks we are finally on our way. We followed the trail around 17 mile point and then turned southwest into the Mojave. The road steadily looses elevation as it cross a fallout zone of lava and start to head down into the valley.
Old Mojave Road Trip Report West
After our recent trip to the center section of the Old Mojave Road, my wife Heather was really excited to run the western section and complete the entire length of the trail. Her idea was to drive the western section on our way to our annual trip to Big Bear, CA over the Memorial Day holiday. I worried that such a trip during this time of year could be a rough trip due to high temperatures in the desert. In late April we finished the center section in Baker, CA and the air temperature was only 107 degrees. Despite my concerns, we gladly planned our trip and embraced her good idea.
As we prepared for our trip, gathered our gear, food, and checked out the mechanics of the jeep, I decide to check the local weather report. To my surprise, weather.com predicted the temps in the mid 80s with clear sky’s and light wind. The weather could not be any better.
Another interesting development, is that Heather kept offering to drive in the event I got tired of driving. She didn’t just offer once, but several times per day for several days before our departure. Being the good husband that I am, after about twenty or thirty offers, I started to get the idea that, subconsciously, Heather might want to drive this run. So after some arm twisting and bartering, I finally convinced her and Heather agreed to take the wheel. This of course, would be a great source of confusion for me during the trip, however I am certain I can persevere this new dynamic. This is not to imply that Heather is not one of the finest drivers I know, far from it.
All packed up, we left the Las Vegas area at 7:00 am on Saturday morning, and headed towards Baker. A quick stop in Baker, we topped off the fuel tank and took our respective bathroom breaks. Once Heather reminded me that she was driving this trip, I took my seat on the right had side of the jeep and we headed down Kelbaker Road. It took me a few miles, but soon I became used to having my coffee cup on the wrong side, no pedals, eta… This must be what it is like in England. The map and guide-book took some getting used to as well, but somehow I managed to get us to the trail head. It certainly didn’t hurt that we were here just a few weeks before. A quick turn on to the trail, and we stopped to air down the tires for some ride comfort.
After dreaming of this trip for the past few weeks we are finally on our way. We followed the trail around 17 mile point and then turned southwest into the Mojave. The road steadily looses elevation as it cross a fallout zone of lava and start to head down into the valley.
After a few more miles, we “discovered” the Little Cow Hole Mountain Mill Site just north of the road. The short drive over to the site was well worth it and provided you are at all interested in locations such as these. There is a large concrete foundation which appears to be the footings for the mill itself, along with several retaining walls. There is a very minor uphill section of to the foundation level of the mill. Heather did a great job on this minor obstruction. I am still amazed that she easy handled the slope despite my exaggerated gesturing and attempts to apply the brake or depress the gas from the passenger seat.
The next stage of the Old Mojave Road, drops the remaining elevation down to the Soda Dry Lake. For those who drive the I-15 highway between Barstow and Primm, this is the large desolate dry lake bed just off the highway as you drop into Baker from the South. The Soda Dry Lake is a flat expanse, that when dry is easily passable. However, judging from the troughs through the dried mud, it seems to be very rough terrain to traverse unless you have significantly more horsepower and larger tires. Most definitely bad form in my opinion and I certainly would never put my Jeep to this test.
Driving across the soda lake is an awesome experience. Either you appreciate terrain such as this, or you don’t. The flat dry desolation along with the white color of the soda lake combines perfectly with the crunch below your feet and the wind blowing. Oddly enough, the higher the temperature and wind speed, the more I appreciate this environment. There is a tranquility in this place and really gives on the feeling that you are alone and out in the middle of no where.
We did make the prerequisite stop at the “Travelers” monument. My son Ryan added to the pile and we let Ryan and our Labrador Retriever, Rooger AKA the boys, run around and stretch their legs. The boys played while I explored the area photographically.
Again we loaded up the boys and continued our travels. Once we left the dry lake, we found ourselves in a deep sandy road after a quick right and then left turns at the “Granites” rock formation. There was no danger of getting stuck in the sand for us, but Heather was naturally concerned. She gained experience and confidence as we crossed over Shaw Pass and followed the rocky road down the backside. This was soon shattered when a high-pitched voice from the back seat sang out, “Mom, can you let dad drive?”
Once we crossed the rather nondescript pass, we dropped into the Mojave River Wash. This section of the trail is just sandy river bed and marked with either Cairns or railroad ties. During the Mojave River wash section, both Heather and I had to really keep an eye open for the markers. In many locations I noticed several parallel trails and multiple markers. For the most part you just travel in a western direction and keep to the left side of Cave Mountain.
Sandy conditions aside, this section of the trip was a lot of fun. There are an abundance of birds, and we jumped several large jack rabbits. As the terrain is sandy and with intermittent bushes, when we did see a rabbit, it was easy to follow them when they ran into the distance. Although we are in middle of the Mojave desert, an extremely harsh and arid place you would not know that considering the size and number of these rabbits.
Towards the end of the Mojave River Wash at the intersection with Basin Road, there is a large mining complex. We stopped for lunch and a hike. ’The boys’ were very exciting to hike an old track line which had rail road ties embedded into the rocky soil. One a future trip we will have to return and explore this area further as there are trails and roads all over this site. I don’t know much of the history of this spot, what was mined, etc… but this is a very interesting place and will be the subject of future adventures.
Back on the trail we headed towards and under the infamous railroad bridge. The bridge itself glistened in the sun and shined like a beacon in the distance. The bridge moaned as a train crossed over head on its way to drop off its cargo. I got out of the car to take some photos of the jeep and the bridge. Thankfully, Heather in an act of kindness did turn around and picked me up.
We continued to follow the river bed down and through Afton canyon. Afton Canyon is a gem of the Mojave desert. On the trail, we found a buried rail road car and soon crossed paths with the only other traffic on this forty mile side trip.
The rail road car is a great example of why the Mojave desert is such a wonderful place. Scattered across the landscape is the history of this country. Old rail cars, mines, camps, watering holes and even crashed jet airplanes can still be found lying around. You just need to learn to look.
Afton Canyon is just an amazing spot and the trail follows the riverbed through the water and wind-swept canyon. The colors and geology are amazing and photographically offer a lot of opportunities. A fence clocks the trail from following the river further for environmental rehabilitation purposes and the trail jumps up next to the train tracks for a while.
After two short water crossings this section of the Old Mojave Road dumps out into the Afton Canyon Campground. Once again Heather’s jeep confidence grew as I asked her to back up into the water crossing again to take some photographs of some cat tails growing in the river. The Afton Canyon Campground isn’t much to look at, and personally I would rather camp in the back country.
Once past the campground, we drove up the road towards the I-15. A quick stop to add some air pressure back into the tires and make us safe for high-speed travel. Once we aired up, Heather announced that she was tired and decided that I should drive. A bit over an hour later, we arrived at the house in Big Bear and unpacked. Following a quick dinner, the boys quickly crashed out.
This was the first time the Heather did significant driving on the back roads. She did a great job, and I am thrilled that she is taking to our trips with such a wonderful attitude and sense of adventure. This weekend, she drove 75 of the 110 miles of back road driving. I am very proud of her.