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Death Valley Stargazing Camp

91%
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· Valley Wells, Inyo, California
80 acres hosted by Scott L.
4 RV/tent sites
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Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Off-leash friendly
Pets can be off-leash at this Hipcamp.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
PLEASE NOTE: You MUST approach the property from the south through the ghost town of Ballarat. If you try to approach from the north on Indian Ranch Road, you very well may come across some section of road that have been washed out. PLEASE APPROACH FROM THE SOUTH! The easiest way to get here is to navigate to Ballarat first, and then turn north on Indian Ranch Road. Google often thinks the road in between Ballarat and our location is closed, but we assure you it's not, and hasn't been for years. PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE IN THE AREA. Pitch your tent or pull up your RV or camper van on Death Valley's front porch just outside of Surprise Canyon in Panamint Valley. Near the ghost town of Ballarat, Death Valley Stargazing Camp is one of only four private parcels in all of Panamint Valley -- and lies just west of the Death Valley National Park boundary. This pristine valley is untouched, and offers panoramic views of amazing sunsets, sunrises, and of course dark, dark skies! The property features 4 campsites with privacy amongst the 80 acres. All sites have several hundred feet in between them, and include a picnic bench, fire ring, and shared porta-potties across from the Green Alien Mailbox (800 - 1200 feet away depending on your campsite -- or as we call them, Starsites). And did we mention the views?? Whether you're visiting Death Valley, or just passing through the desert -- these campsites are serene, scenic, and include a stargazing wonderland! Site #1: Recessed from the road, this is the biggest site and has ample room for any type of vehicle, as well as lots of vehicles. Vehicles can pull through. Site #2: Closer to the road and also fairly big. Some vehicles can pull through but some will have to back out. Large trailers could be a problem. Site #3: Along side the road and the smallest of the three sites (although all sites are surrounded by nothing). All vehicles will have to back out of this site. Large trailers could be a problem. SIte #4: Across from the mailbox on the west side of the road. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR LARGE TRAILERS OR ANY HEAVY VEHICLES WHICH COULD GET STUCK IN THE SAND! Cars should proceed with caution and stay on the road as there are areas of loose sand near this site. Walk to it first to check conditions if you are unsure. Come join us in the middle of nowhere with dark skies and easy access to Death Valley, the Trona Pinnacles, Darwin Falls, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and countless canyons with mining ruins and adventures!
Activities
Biking
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Natural features
Cave
Desert
Canyon
Mountainous
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91%
530 ratings · 198 reviews
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Jordan S.recommends
February 3, 2024
Site 1
Campsite was clean, well described, and easy to find with the provided instructions. Phenomenal view of the sky ;)
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Grey M.recommends
January 24, 2024
Site 3
One of The Most Amazing Views!
Amazing view! I would definitely recommend an all wheel drive due to the road conditions. It can get bumpy but it’s well worth the travel.
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Taylor A.recommends
January 20, 2024
Site 4
camp site #4
amazing camp sites just outside of death valley! beautiful views and very private! we arrived in the dark and were still able to find our camp site! Make sure to take a screenshot of the host’s directions on how to locate the sites- there is no service in this area! We did see two small kit foxes our first night after dark! We enjoyed drinking our coffee in the morning by the fire pit and taking in the beauty of the stars at night! We hope to visit again!
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Gervine M.recommends
January 18, 2024
Site 1
Cool place to chill after exploring
Very quiet campsite due to lack of wind and animals. The site was pretty clean when we arrived, and the fire pit and bench were in good shape too. The place is even better at night for stargazing, got some good photos out of that (if you’re lucky you might catch a few shooting stars!)
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Elle D.recommends
December 27, 2023
Site 1
Great little hideaway private spot near Ballarat if you’re entering or leaving the main national park. Pretty far to get up to when you turn into Ballarat but the journey is fun. Sadly we came on a cloudy day but when the stars did peek out they were so vivid. Also saw/heard some fun creatures around the campsite like burros and foxes, they were very friendly. Loved the privateness and remoteness of spot so if that’s what you’re looking for highly recommend. Our specific campsite you were barely close at all to anyone. Campsite roads are pretty easy themselves but definitely be careful on the road up once you pass through Ballarat. Wonderful experience though and would highly recommend.
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Michael S.recommends
November 7, 2023
Site 1
Fantastic Location and Hosts
Amazing views of the mountains and Panamint Valley. Lots to explore in the nearby canyons - old mining sites, cabins, etc. Scott and Mark are great hosts!
Location
Valley Wells, Inyo, California, United StatesTraditional, ancestral territory of Newe Sogobia (Western Shoshone) First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Scott L.Joined in April 2019
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