31 Best things to do in Death Valley National Park California

Death Valley National Park in California was one of the most beautiful American National Parks we visited Death Valley during our USA trip where we spend 3 months going south, west, and north across the country.

I hadn’t quite expected there’d be so many awesome things to do in Death Valley National Park either.

Given its name, I assumed it was basically a bit of wasteland with not much going for it. So it came as a bit of a surprise and discovered it was absolutely stunning.

Despite being known as one of the hottest places in America, it poured with rain and hail, and we were treated to an almighty thunderstorm during our night in Death Valley.

Just as well there were some spaces at one of the Death Valley campsites so we could hunker down for the evening and try and avoid getting struck by lightning!

From hiking in Death Valley to a racetrack, the infamous Badwater Valley, and the beautiful colored rocks and dunes, this is one of the best National Parks we came across on our USA road trip.

If you’re planning a trip to Death Valley National Park (and you absolutely should!), then here are some of the best things to see in Death Valley, California. Oh, and be sure to check out this guide to Death Valley National Park for everything else you may need to know before your visit.

Death Valley National Park map

Here’s a map of what to do in Death Valley National Park that shows the roads and main sites some of which are mentioned below or in other posts.

What to see in Death Valley National Park

1. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Imagine standing in the middle of the desert, complete with sand dunes stretching towards the horizon. That’s Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for you.

This spot, right in the heart of Death Valley, is gorgeous!

With golden dunes set against a backdrop of majestic purple mountains, it’s an amazing location for photographers, and kids will love it as it doubles as a natural playground.

You can choose to walk among the dunes, and if you’re up for it, you can even bring your sandboard or snow sled for some fun rides down the slopes.

2. Visit Dante’s View

When you visit Death Valley, a trip to Dante’s View is a must. This lookout point gives you an incredible view of the park, including Badwater Basin and the Badwater Road below.

The journey to the top along the road is pretty steep and it’s a bit of a detour but it’s so worth it.

If you’re a longer vehicle like an RV, or towing something, then you’ll need to leave what you’re towing behind as you’re not allowed to drive up here.

3. Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette, Death Valley

One of the best things to do in Death Valley is definitely to drive along Artist’s Drive, to Artist’s Palette.

It’s a 9-mile scenic drive that takes you through a colorful part of the park out to an area where the rocks seem like they’ve been painted over by an artist.

The colors here are pink and blue with bits of purple and green. This is caused by the oxidation of different metals and minerals in the soil and it’s super cool to see.

There’s an unmarked canyon here that’s worth visiting and you can also take some walks and hikes in the area to explore more of this beautiful spot in Death Valley.

4. Twenty Mule Team Canyon

Don’t miss out on the Twenty Mule Team Canyon, a winding 2.7-mile one-way loop drive that will take you through some incredible scenery in the Badlands.

The white and yellow mudstone hills are a result of borax mining done a century ago.

I recommend getting out of your car and taking an easy walk up to the top of some of the hills you see as you get even better views from the top!

5. See Zabriskie Point

The colors of the rocks at Zabriskie Point are amazing, I really didn’t expect it! It’s particularly good at sunset that’s for sure and it’s one of the places I think is a must see in Death Valley.

The rock formations and the panoramic views of the valley you get from here make it well worth adding it to your list of what to do in Death Valley.

Be sure to stop here as you’re driving through Death Valley National Park and get out of your car – you won’t regret it!

Note: Zabriskie Point is located at a higher elevation so you may want to bring a jacket as it can get chilly.

6. Go stargazing in Death Valley National Park

No trip to Death Valley would be complete without taking advantage of its dark night skies, perfect for stargazing (or at least that’s what I’ve been told when it’s not thundering like it was during our visit!).

Thanks to its remote location, far from city lights, Death Valley offers one of the most spectacular star-gazing experiences in the United States.

Places like Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin, and Harmony Borax Works are great spots for an unforgettable night under the stars.

7. Gaze at Badwater Basin

At Badwater Basin, you’ll get a real feel for the extreme conditions in Death Valley.

As the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is an expansive salt flat that can reach scorching temperatures and is where record temperatures are set in the US. To avoid the intense heat, it’s best to visit in the early morning or late evening.

The salty terrain, which is often crisscrossed with distinctive patterns is much like the Salt Flats you’ll see in South America.

8. Venture Out to Saline Valley Dunes

The Saline Valley Dunes in Death Valley National Park are one of the quieter spots to visit.

They don’t receive as much attention as the likes of Badwater Basin and Artist’s Palette but they’re still beautiful.

There are 5 different dune fields in Death Valley with the Eureka Dunes being some of the biggest. However, the Saline Valley Dunes still have their own unique, desolate beauty that makes them worth a visit for anyone desiring to venture off the beaten path.

9. Devil’s Golf Course

Just a short hop from Badwater Basin, you’ll find the peculiar formations of the Devil’s Golf Course.

Here, you’ll witness a huge area of jagged rock salt eroded by the forces of wind and rain. These sharp spires make it look so treacherous that it’s been jokingly said only the devil could play golf here!

You can hear the intriguing sounds of the tiny salt crystals expanding and contracting in the heat if you listen closely.

A word of caution though: if you decide to walk out onto the flats, be careful. The rock salt is surprisingly sharp, and it’s easy to get cut.

10. See Death Valley’s Elusive Burros

One of the unexpected experiences you might enjoy in Death Valley is spotting the elusive burros (like mules).

Originally brought over by miners in the 19th century, these donkeys are not native to the park and are considered an invasive species. As a result, the park service is actively trying to reduce the numbers.

But, for now, they’re still around and can be quite cool to see. You’ll have the best chances of spotting them in areas like Surprise Canyon and the Wildrose region.

11. Ubehebe Crater

Another of the best things to see Death Valley National Park is the Ubehebe Crater (oo-beh-heh-bee).

This is a volcanic crater that is often overlooked by visitors, there’s also a smaller crater nearby; Little Ubehebe Crater.

To reach it, start at the Ubehebe parking lot and follow the rim trail to the right, where you’ll eventually find a turnoff for Little Ubehebe.

Both craters are super impressive when you think about their creation and you’ll see the charred soil and rock littering the landscape.

12. Natural Bridge

Another cool thing to see in Death Valley National Park is the Natural Bridge; an arch-like rock formation similar to some of those you’ll find in Utah’s National Park like Arches National Park.

You can get to the Natural Bridge in Death Valley by taking a short walk from the parking lot. It’s an easy trail with a gravel path and the bridge is pretty cool to see. However, I wouldn’t say it’s one of the best things to do at Death Valley National Park, so if you’re short on time you can skip this one!

13. Telescope Peak

Telescope Peak is the highest peak in Death Valley National Park standing at 11,043 feet (3366 m), and is one of the best hikes in Death Valley National Park.

It’s a 14-mile hike to reach the summit is challenging but from the peak, you can look down onto Badwater Basin, and even see Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S., in the distance.

Many times throughout the year, Telescope Peak has a snow-capped summit which is super cool to see since you’re in the desert landscape of Death Valley.

14. Wildrose Campsite

If you want to go camping within the park, the Wildrose Campsite is one of the best free camping in Death Valley National Park.

It’s a popular spot, so try to arrive early.

It’s actually where we ended up pulling in for the night when the weather turned and the heavens opened with thunder lightning and hail as we were driving through the park. Overnight, we heard several campers get into their cars instead the hail was that heavy!

15. Take a Scenic Drive

Due to the sheer size of Death Valley National Park, exploring by car is highly recommended.

The park has over 1,000 miles of roads, some paved, some improved, and others requiring a 4WD vehicle.

Cell service is often spotty at best, so it’s possible that you could be waiting a long time for help in case of a breakdown. Therefore, make sure you have a good spare tire and it’s a good idea to carry food, water, and essential supplies.

If you’ve rented a car, check their policies beforehand as many rental companies won’t let you drive their cars off-road so you could invalidate any insurance policies you took out.

16. Go for a hike!

If you’re still wondering what to do in Death Valley then put on those hiking boots and go exploring.

There are tonnes of great Death Valley hiking trails for different fitness levels and interests. Whether you want to explore canyons, sand dunes, salt flats, or mountains, you’ll find a trail for you.

17. Death Valley wildflowers

Every once in a while, Death Valley National Park has what’s known as a super bloom when there’s been so much rain and snowmelt over the winter that the flowers bloom in huge amounts.

This transforms the desert into a vivid display of gold, pink, purple, and white hues. The most recent super bloom in Death Valley National Park was in 2016. The National Park Service forecast when they think a net one will occur and so keep an eye on their website.

Wildflowers typically bloom from mid-February through June, with the lower elevations blooming earlier than the higher ones.

18. Sunrise at Aguereberry Point

Aguereberry Point is one of the best places in Death Valley National Park for sunrise.

Unlike Zabriskie Point, the popular sunrise spot, Aguereberry Point directly faces the sun, resulting in a much more dramatic array of colors as dawn breaks.

The relatively remote location of Aguereberry Point also means fewer visitors. It’s easily accessible by car, and you can witness the sunrise without the need for a long hike too.

19. Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch

The loop trail to Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch is one of the best hikes in Death Valley CA. It’s roughly a 4.5-mile hike and gives you great views of the valley as well as the mudstone hills that make this area so interesting to see.

You can make the Golden Canyon trail pretty much as long or short as you wish by adding in a trip to Manly Beacon for a view that’s possibly even better than Zabriskie Point.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

20. Discover Borax Mine in Death Valley

Step back in time and learn more about Death Valley’s history by visiting the Harmony Borax Works.

This site was central to the region’s development in the late 19th century when it was responsible for processing three tonnes of ore daily!

Despite ceasing operation in 1888, it remains an important part of Death Valley’s history and is even on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.

21. Grotto Canyon

If you’re looking for a challenging hike in Death Valley, the Grotto Canyon trail is a perfect choice.

You’ll make your way through narrow canyons and tackle some scrambling sections up an 8 ft chimney.

If you’re up for the challenge and are an experienced hiker, it’s well worth checking out.

22. Darwin Falls Death Valley

Darwin Falls is a surprising place to come across when you’re visiting Death Valley.

Instead of the typical dry, desert landscape of the park, this year-round waterfall gives you a refreshing change of scenery.

As you make your way along the trail, the sudden emergence of a creek and songbirds will have you feeling like you’ve come across a mirage in the desert. On the contrary, it’s a true oasis with the falls being fed by a spring.

Though the hike isn’t too strenuous, the road out to the trailhead is. It’s a rough and rocky drive along the Old Toll Road and you’ll want a high-clearance vehicle and ideally a 4×4.

23. Scotty’s Castle in Death Valley

*Currently closed due to flood damage

I bet you didn’t expect to come across an actual castle in Death Valley National Park!

Scotty’s Castle, also known as the Death Valley Ranch, gives you a chance to step into the glamour of the Roaring ’20s and the austerity of the Depression ’30s. It was once an engineer’s dream home, a wealthy matron’s vacation retreat, and also a hideout for a mysterious man.

When open, walking tours guide you through the castle, taking you back in time with the guides sharing the castle’s history, legends, and stories about its previous residents.

24. See the Charcoal Kilns

The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns in Death Valley National Park look a bit like a series of beehive-shaped homes but they were actually used to make charcoal during the mining that took place here.

The kilns are in the Wildrose section of the park, and you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle to get out to them. If you have that, it’s well worth checking this area out.

25. Eureka Dunes

The Eureka Dunes are among the highest in North America, towering up to 680 ft

You’ll find them in the more remote northern part of Death Valley National Park so they’re usually not very busy and a cool place to visit in Death Valley if you have a few days to spend exploring the park.

The Eureka Dunes are also said to be “singing sands.” Under specific conditions, the sands create a sound when they shift, causing an eerie hum it’s super cool to hear if you’ve got the right conditions!

26. Relax in the Tecopa Hot Springs

Depending on your plans after visiting Death Valley National Park, you could head south and check out Tecopa Hot Springs.

The waters are known for their therapeutic properties, and soaking in them can be a soothing experience after a long day of hiking in Death Valley.

The hot springs in this small town have several bathhouses with pools filled with warm, mineral-rich waters. There are also private soaking tub rooms available.

Steaks and Beer is a good place to go afterward for some dinner and drinks.

If you’re headed west like we were after visiting Death Valley, then be sure to check out these Mammoth Lakes hot springs!

27. See Panamint Dunes

The Panamint Dunes have some great hiking trails if you’ve got time to head out into the more remote areas of the park to visit them.

These dunes rise up from the Panamint Valley floor, with the highest dune standing at about 300 feet tall.

28. Discover the Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest

Located on the western edge of Death Valley, the Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest offers a stark contrast to the barren desert landscapes typically associated with the park.

This large Joshua tree forest isn’t as dense as you’ll find in Joshua Tree National Park, but it is still beautiful.

This part of the park is typically much cooler than the valley floor too, so if the temperatures skyrocket, head here.

29. Mosaic Canyon

A hike through Mosaic Canyon is like visiting a natural geologic exhibit as the canyon walls are full of unique rock formations, including “mosaic” rock – which is made up of fragments of various types of rocks cemented together.

The Mosaic Canyon Trail is approximately 4 miles long, with the first half-mile being the busiest. If you carry on walking you’ll get more of the trail to yourself and can do some light scrambling as you hike.

30. Ibex Dunes

If you’re looking for more cool sand dunes in Death Valley National Park, head to the remote Ibex Dunes in the southeast corner of the park is one of the best Death Valley attractions.

The dunes rise dramatically from the Saddle Peak Hills, providing a fascinating desert landscape for exploring and photos.

The best times to explore these dunes are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are cooler and make sure you’ve got plenty of water, sun protection, and a reliable navigation device.

31. Racetrack Playa

Racetrack Playa in Death Valley National Park is known for its ‘sailing stones’ which mysteriously move across the cracked desert floor, leaving long trails.

Scientists believe they do this due to a combination of wind, rain, ice, and sun.

Getting to Racetrack Playa requires a high-clearance vehicle due to the rugged terrain and the nearest facilities are a 2-3 hour drive away, so you’ll need all the essentials like food, water, and sunscreen.

You are not allowed to do any off-road driving here as it damages the ground.

The Best Death Valley Tours

Prefer to travel as a tour or are you short on time? Check out these tours to Death Valley tours from Las Vegas:

• Death Valley Trekker Tour: With pick up and drop off from Las Vegas. See Furnace Creek, Devil’s Golf Course, Badwater, Zabriskie Point, and more.
• Death Valley day trip from Las Vegas: Tour in a small group with lunch and pick up/drop off from Las Vegas
• Death Valley full-day tour from Las Vegas / Watching the Sunset & Stars Tour: Discover Death Valley by night and day on a small-group tour from Las Vegas. Admire its dramatic badlands, salt flats, and other striking scenery at locations like Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, and Artists Palette, and stay until after sunset to see the stars come out.

Interesting + important things to know before visiting Death Valley National Park in California

Before visiting Death Valley National Park, it’s essential to be well-prepared, as the park can be challenging due to its extreme temperatures and remote location. Here’s a list of essential things to know before your visit:

• Extreme Heat: Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth. Summer temperatures often exceed 120°F (49°C), so plan your visit during cooler months (fall to spring) to avoid extreme heat. Death Valley weather is special because it’s the hottest, driest, and lowest spot in the whole United States. In fact, the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth was in Death Valley. The Death Valley temperature reached a scorching 134°F (57°C), on July 10, 1913.
• Hydration: Carry plenty of water. Dehydration can be life-threatening, so drink water regularly and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
• Sun Protection: Wear sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight, breathable clothing to protect yourself from the intense sun.
• Gas Stations: Fuel up before entering the park. There are limited gas stations within the park, and prices can be higher than outside areas.
• Cell Signal: Don’t rely on cell phone coverage within the park, as it can be very limited or non-existent in many areas. Inform someone outside the park about your plans and expected return time.
• One of the unique things about Death Valley is that it’s so low that one area called Badwater Basin is 282 feet below sea level. Because of the surrounding mountains, it hardly gets any rain, less than 2 inches per year.
• Remote Location: Death Valley is a vast, remote area with long distances between services. Carry a physical map, and know that GPS navigation might not work accurately everywhere. The park is massive, covering 3.4 million acres of land, making it the largest national park in the United States after those in Alaska.
• Visitor Centers: Stop by one of the visitor centers (Furnace Creek Visitor Center or Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station) to get updated information, maps, and any alerts about road closures or weather conditions.
• Road Conditions: Check the current road conditions before starting your journey. Some roads may close due to flooding, washouts, or maintenance.
• Flash Floods: During rare rain events, flash floods can occur suddenly. Avoid hiking in narrow canyons when there’s a chance of rain.
• Wildlife: Death Valley is home to various wildlife, including rattlesnakes, scorpions, and coyotes. Be cautious and keep your distance from animals for both your safety and theirs.
• Leave No Trace: Respect the fragile desert ecosystem by packing out all your trash and not disturbing any plants or wildlife.
• Camping: If you plan to camp, book your campsite well in advance, especially during the peak season. Also, familiarize yourself with the camping regulations.
• Park Fees: There’s an entrance fee for visiting Death Valley National Park, so be prepared to pay when entering. Check the park’s website for the latest fee information.
• Stay on Designated Roads: Off-road driving is prohibited in most areas of the park. Stick to designated roads to protect the delicate desert environment.
• Hiking Precautions: If you plan to hike, inform someone about your route and expected return time. Carry a map, plenty of water, and wear appropriate footwear.
• Death Valley officially became a national park on October 31, 1994, and it’s also part of a special reserve designated by UNESCO.

By being well-prepared and following these guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the unique beauty of Death Valley National Park.

When is the best time to visit Death Valley National Park?

Overall, the best time to visit Death Valley is in the Fall and the Spring when the temperatures are cooler. In general, I would recommend avoiding summer as it’s just too hot to get out of your car and enjoy the park much.

Our visit was in early May and we got caught in the strongest storm I think I’ve ever experienced with thunder and lightning and crazy rain come nighttime. It was not at all what I’d expected from this park, but it goes to show you need to be prepared!

Fall (October to November): Fall is an excellent time to visit Death Valley as the heat of summer starts to subside. The temperatures are milder during the day, ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

You can explore the park’s iconic landmarks, like Badwater Basin and Dante’s View, without the extreme heat taking too much of a toll and the nights are pleasantly cool, with temperatures between 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C).

Winter (December to February): Winter is another popular time to visit Death Valley, especially for those seeking more comfortable temperatures. During the day, the weather is pleasant, ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the park.

Nights can get chilly, with temperatures between 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C), so bring layers to stay warm. The cooler temperatures also mean fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene experience.

Spring (March to April): Spring is a lovely time to visit Death Valley as the desert landscape comes to life with wildflowers and blooming cacti. Daytime temperatures range from 80°F to 95°F (27°C to 35°C).

It’s a fantastic time for photographers, as the colors of the desert are at their peak. Nights are mild, with temperatures between 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), making camping and stargazing fun.

Summer (May to September): Summer in Death Valley is incredibly hot, with daytime temperatures soaring well above 100°F (38°C) and sometimes exceeding 120°F (49°C). Getting outdoors is very difficult due to the extreme heat. If you choose to visit during this time, exercise extreme caution, drink plenty of water, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Nighttime temperatures range from 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C), offering some relief, but camping in such heat can be uncomfortable.

How to get to Death Valley California

Death Valley is close to the California – Nevada State Border and so is in eastern California. Below are some basic driving times and details for the closest airports to Death Valley to help you plan your trip.

Flights to Death Valley CA

• Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS): McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas is the nearest major airport to Death Valley. It is located approximately 120 miles (193 km) away from the park’s Furnace Creek Visitor Center. From the airport, the drive takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Los Angeles, California (LAX): Los Angeles International Airport is another option, but it is farther from Death Valley, approximately 280 miles (451 km) away. The drive from LAX to Death Valley takes around 4.5 to 5 hours.
• Other Regional Airports: There are smaller regional airports, such as the Inyokern Airport (IYK) or the Bishop Airport (BIH), which are closer to Death Valley than the major airports mentioned above. However, these regional airports have limited flight options and may require connecting flights.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Getting to Death Valley National Park by Car:

• From Las Vegas, Nevada: Take US-95 North towards Beatty, Nevada. From Beatty, take State Route 374 West to enter Death Valley National Park. This route takes you to the eastern side of the park.
• From Los Angeles, California: Take I-15 North to Baker, California. From Baker, take State Route 127 North and then turn onto State Route 190 East to enter the park from the southern side.
• From San Francisco, California: Take I-5 South to State Route 14 East near Mojave, California. Continue on State Route 14, and then take State Route 190 East to enter Death Valley from the northern side.
• From other points in California: Depending on your starting location, you may use different highways to access the park. Plan your route using a reliable navigation system or GPS.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Important Tips:

• Before embarking on your trip, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and carry extra water and emergency supplies, especially if you are driving through remote areas.
• Gas up your vehicle before entering the park, as there are limited gas stations within the park, and prices may be higher.
• Check for road closures and weather conditions before starting your journey, as roads may be affected by floods, washouts, or other natural events.
• If you plan to explore remote areas or go off-road, ensure you have a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle and a good understanding of the terrain.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Entrance fees to Death Valley

The Death Valley entrance fees are $30 per car, this lasts for 7 consecutive days.

If you’re entering by foot, or bike then the entrance fee is $15 per person. Alternatively, you can get the America National Parks Pass which costs $80 for the year and gets you entrance to National Parks and monuments throughout the country. If you plan on visiting 3 national parks over the course of a year, then you’ve already saved money!

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

Where to stay near Death Valley National Park

There is some limited accommodation within Death Valley National Park but you’ll get more options for lodging at Death Valley if you’re willing to sleep over the state line in Nevada.

Here are some of the top options for accommodation in Death Valley and the best hotels near Death Valley and its surroundings.

• The Inn at Death Valley – When it comes to where to stay in Death Valley, this is one of the best for lodging inside the park.
• Tarantula Ranch Campground & Vineyard near Death Valley National Park: Unique campground with mountain views, kitchen facilities, studios, and glamping-style accommodations.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pahrump, an IHG Hotel: Hotel close to Death Valley National Park, with all the standard amenities you’d expect from this chain.
• K7 Bed and Breakfast: Bed and breakfast with convenient amenities.
• Panamint Springs Resort: This motel has a terrace and bar as well as a restaurant and is well-located for visiting the park.

Death Valley Camping

It’s unusual for all the Death Valley campgrounds to fill up but if you’re hoping to stay at Furnace Creek campground you may want to reserve prior to your visit. All other campgrounds are first come, first served.

• Furnace Creek: Reservations are required from October 15 – April 15. Costs $22 per night, $36 per night for electric hookup
• Sunset: Open October 15 – May 2, costs $14 per night
• Texas Springs: Open October 15 – April 24th, costs $16 per night
• Stovepipe Wells: Open October to May 10th and costs $14 per night
• Emigrant (tents only): Open all year round with no reservations needed and is free
• Wildrose (where we stayed): Free, open all year

RV resorts & campsites near Death Valley

• Death Valley Inn & RV Park 
• Preferred RV Resort
• Pahrump RV Park & Lodging

FAQs about the best things to do in Death Valley

Final thoughts on Death Valley USA

There are so many things to see in Death Valley National Park which isn’t so surprising because it’s such a big park.

From the incredible Badwater Basin to the mysterious sliding rocks at Racetrack Playa, gazing at the stunning vista from Dante’s View, or learning about the region’s history there are loads of Death Valley things to do. Hopefully, this has helped you plan your Death Valley itinerary!

If you’re traveling around America a bit more, be sure to check out the Grand Canyon National Park, visit the Mammoth Lakes Hot Springs, or head over to San Francisco and drive Big Sur!

Last Updated on July 24, 2023 by Hannah