Tag: Panamint Valley

Panamint Valley, nestled in the Mojave Desert of California, is a strikingly rugged and desolate landscape, stretching approximately 65 miles in length. Encircled by towering mountain ranges like the Panamint Range to the west and the Cottonwood Mountains to the east, this valley forms a dramatic basin with a floor that lies well below sea level. Its arid, stark beauty is accentuated by salt flats and occasional dry lake beds, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the azure skies above. The area is not only a geological marvel but also holds historical significance, having been traversed by Native American tribes and later by explorers during the California Gold Rush era.

Emigrant Campground

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Emigrant Campground is a tent only campground located next to CA Route 190 near the boundary of Death Valley National Park, California. The campgrounds is located at about 2150 foot elevation and overlooks the cottonwood mountains, which are part of the Panamint Range.   

Emigrant Campground in Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park

Typical campground amenities with more services to the north-east at Stovepipe Wells Village. The elevation of the park at over 2000 feet offers some views and hints at the dynamic landscape below.

This small, little campground is not much more beyond a clearing by the side of CA 190 with 10 campsites outlined in rocks. The campground is literally just off of the highway, and those with children of pets should be on watch.

The campsites are primarily dirt with pavement at picnic area. Due to its proximity with the park boundary, this campground could serve as a staging campsite at the park boundary and allow access to further deeper exploration within the National Park.

Gas burning stoves are permitted. Fires and charcoal grills are prohibited.

Campground Summary

NameEmigrant Campground
LocationDeath Valley National Park, California
Latitude, Longitude36.496552556, -117.227519732
Elevation2150
Sites10
Amenitiespotable water, flushing toilets

Emigrant Campground Map

References

Thorndike Campground

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Thorndike campground is located at 7,400 feet in the Panamint Mountains in Death Valley National Park. The campground is accessible to high clearance vehicles only and no longer than 25 feet in length.. Depending on road conditions, 4-wheel drive may be necessary the reach the campground. The road becomes much steeper and rough once you pass the Wildrose Campground.

Thorndike Campground in Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park

The campground is located within a Pinyon Pine and Juniper Forest. The campground is 1000 feet lower in elevation that Mahogany Flat campground and 4000 feet higher than Wildrose Campground. Due to its high elevation, this campground does close in the winter months.

This is the closest campground to the Death Valley Charcoal kilns. Thorndike has 6 sites, tables, fireplaces, and pit toilets. Thorndike is free of change campground, however, it does operate on a first come first serve basis.

Fires are allowed at NPS fire pits only. No firewood collecting is permitted; bring your own wood. Fires are prohibited June 15-September 15 and periods of high fire danger.

Campground Summary

NameThorndike Campground
LocationPanamint Mountains, Death Valley National Park, California
Latitude, Longitude36.236893, -117.071446
Elevation7400 feet
Site6
AmenitiesTables, Fireplaces, and vault toilets.

Thorndike Campground Map

References