Nathaniel Huff
Google
I stayed here two nights on a Wed-Thu in mid-May 2024.
Currently, the only way to access the campground is by Emigrant Canyon road from the north. It is a 31 mile drive with over 5,000 feet of curvy elevation gain through Emigrant Pass from Stovepipe Wells. This drive takes 45-60 minutes, so like most places in Death Valley, takes time and caution to get to.
The campground has 22 sites and is free if you already have a park pass. Sites are fairly spaced out on a hillside. Sites are a hard gravel, come with fire rings and aluminum table, and are fairy level. There is potable water at a spigot near the vault toilet.
PROs: The view is pretty nice and the campground is close to the Charcoal Kilns and Wildrose/Telescope Peak trailheads. Much cooler at elevation also.
CONs: The campground is overrun by wild donkeys/burros. They aren’t aggressive if you keep sufficient distance. But they poop and scream wherever and whenever they please. They also can attract predators like mountain lions.
The wind can be pretty intense, and particularly noisy at night, especially if you’re in a tent. This may affect your ability to sleep without other measures.
The vault toilet had a bat and a black widow in it. Cool wildlife, but be careful.