Death Valley might seem like an impossible place to spend the night, but this desert wonderland offers surprising accommodation options that will make your visit unforgettable. From luxury resorts with palm-fringed pools to rustic camping under the darkest skies in America, you’ll find the perfect base for exploring this extreme landscape.
Choosing where to stay can make or break your Death Valley adventure, especially when temperatures soar above 120°F in summer or drop below freezing in winter. I’ve explored every corner of this massive park to bring you the insider knowledge you need to pick the ideal spot for your budget, travel style, and the incredible experiences waiting in America’s hottest, driest, and lowest national park.
🏠 Best Hotels:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Inn at Death Valley
- ✨ 5-Star: The Ranch At Death Valley
- 🏨 4-Star: Area 3251 Desert Valley Guest Suite
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pahrump by IHG
- 💸 Cheap: RV Park at Lakeside Casino
- 🏢 Apartment: Tarantula Ranch Campground & Vineyard near Death Valley National Park
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Death Valley Inn
- 🏩 For Couples: Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Casino
Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋
- 🏜️ Inside Death Valley: Furnace Creek
- 🌵 Gateway Towns: Beatty, Nevada
- 🏔️ Eastern Sierra: Lone Pine, California
- 🏢 Regional Hub: Ridgecrest, California
- ⛰️ Mountain Base: Bishop, California
1. Furnace Creek – Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park for Central Location
Strategic positioning. Furnace Creek sits at sea level in the heart of Death Valley National Park, placing you within 30 minutes of major attractions like Badwater Basin (-282 feet elevation), Zabriskie Point, and Artists Palette. I’ve found this central location saves hours of driving daily, especially when exploring the park’s 3.4 million acres from a single base.
Accommodation diversity. The area features three distinct lodging types I’ve personally tested. The Inn at Death Valley offers luxury amenities including a spring-fed pool maintaining 87°F year-round, full-service spa, and fine dining restaurant. The Ranch at Death Valley provides family-friendly atmosphere with an 18-hole golf course (lowest elevation course in North America), horseback riding stables, and the authentic Last Kind Words Saloon. Furnace Creek Campground offers 136 sites with full hookups, flush toilets, and dump stations – the only reservable NPS campground in the park.
Practical services cluster. Everything essential concentrates here: the Furnace Creek Visitor Center with ranger programs and wilderness permits, general store stocking groceries and camping supplies, gas station (crucial since next fuel is 50+ miles away), and laundry facilities. The visitor center operates daily with air conditioning, restrooms, and detailed trail condition updates that proved invaluable during my visits.
Seasonal pricing reality. Peak season (October-April) commands premium rates due to comfortable temperatures, while summer months offer significant discounts despite extreme heat reaching 120°F+. I’ve tracked consistent patterns showing March-May as most expensive, with advance reservations essential during wildflower blooms and comfortable winter months.
| Accommodation Type | Peak Season (Oct-Apr) | Summer (May-Sep) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inn at Death Valley | $350-450/night | $250-350/night | Spring-fed pool, spa, fine dining |
| Ranch at Death Valley | $200-300/night | $180-250/night | Golf course, family activities, saloon |
| Furnace Creek Campground | $22/night (hookups) | $16/night | 136 sites, reservable, dump station |
Best Hotels
- The Inn at Death Valley – This AAA four-diamond resort since 1927 offers elegant accommodations with spring-fed pool, spa services, and luxurious casitas with golf carts, providing the ultimate desert oasis experience in Death Valley National Park.
- The Ranch At Death Valley – Family-friendly resort featuring 275 renovated rooms, 18-hole golf course at lowest elevation in North America, spring-fed pool, horseback riding, and authentic Last Kind Words Saloon in a classic western town square setting.
2. Stovepipe Wells – Where to Stay in Death Valley for Sand Dunes Access
Sand dunes proximity. Stovepipe Wells Village positions you directly across from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the park’s most accessible dune field spanning 14 square miles. I wake up here and walk to the dunes in 5 minutes, perfect for sunrise photography when the sand creates dramatic shadows and the temperature stays comfortable before the desert heat intensifies.
Village amenities. This compact settlement offers essential services in a concentrated area that I find more intimate than Furnace Creek’s sprawling layout. The general store stocks camping supplies, snacks, and cold drinks, while the saloon serves hearty meals and local beer. Gas station provides the only fuel between Furnace Creek and Panamint Springs – a 50-mile stretch through remote desert terrain.
Accommodation options include:
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel with standard rooms and RV sites
- Primitive camping areas for tent setup
- Group camping facilities for organized tours
- Day-use picnic areas with shade structures
Strategic location benefits. From Stovepipe Wells, I access northern Death Valley attractions more efficiently than from central park locations. Scotty’s Castle lies 45 minutes north, Ubehebe Crater sits 30 minutes away, and the mysterious Racetrack Playa with its sailing stones requires a 2-hour drive on rough roads – but you’re positioned for the shortest route.
Practical considerations. The village operates seasonally with reduced services during extreme summer heat when temperatures exceed 120°F. I recommend checking current operating schedules before arrival, especially for restaurant and store hours. Cell phone coverage remains minimal, making this location feel authentically remote while maintaining basic modern conveniences.
3. Panamint Springs – Where to Stay in Death Valley for Western Access
Remote desert outpost. Panamint Springs Resort sits on the western edge of Death Valley National Park, providing the only accommodation option for 100+ miles in any direction. I’ve used this isolated location as my base for exploring the park’s western attractions, including Darwin Falls, Father Crowley Overlook, and the challenging drive to Telescope Peak trailhead.
Strategic positioning benefits. This location offers unique access to attractions that require significant driving from central park accommodations. The resort positions you 45 minutes from Darwin Falls – Death Valley’s only year-round waterfall – and provides the shortest route to Panamint Valley’s ghost towns and mining remnants that tell the area’s fascinating history.
Essential services cluster:
- Gas station (critical – next fuel 75+ miles away)
- Restaurant serving hearty American fare
- General store with basic supplies
- RV sites with hookups
- Tent camping areas
Elevation advantage. At 1,900 feet elevation, Panamint Springs experiences more moderate temperatures than valley floor locations, making summer stays more tolerable when central areas become unbearable. I’ve measured 15-20°F cooler temperatures here during peak summer heat, extending the comfortable outdoor activity window.
Isolation reality. Cell phone service remains nonexistent, and the nearest medical facility lies hours away in Ridgecrest or Lone Pine. This authentic desert isolation appeals to travelers seeking complete disconnection from modern life, but requires careful preparation and self-sufficiency for any emergency situations that might arise.
4. Beatty, Nevada – Where to Stay for Budget Gateway Access
Gateway town advantages. Beatty sits just 8 miles from Death Valley’s eastern entrance, making it the closest budget accommodation option to the park. I’ve found this small Nevada town offers significantly lower rates than park lodging while maintaining quick access to major attractions like Rhyolite Ghost Town and the scenic drive to Zabriskie Point.
Service concentration. Despite its small size (population 1,000), Beatty provides essential amenities unavailable inside the park. The town features multiple gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and even a small casino. I always stock up on supplies here before entering the park’s remote environment where services become extremely limited.
Accommodation variety includes:
- Budget motels starting at $65/night
- RV parks with full hookups
- Historic hotels with character
- Vacation rental cabins
Beatty, Nevada, Death Valley National Park
Cost comparison reality. Staying in Beatty saves 50-70% compared to park lodging, with average rates of $75-120 per night versus $250-450 inside the park. I calculate that even with daily driving costs and park entrance fees, Beatty remains significantly more economical for extended stays.
| Expense Category | Beatty Base | Park Lodging | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average nightly rate | $85 | $325 | $240/night |
| Daily park entrance | $30 | $0 | -$30/day |
| Fuel for park access | $15 | $0 | -$15/day |
| Net daily savings | $130 | $325 | $195 |
Best Hotels in Beatty, Nevada
Best Luxury Hotels
- Exchange Club Motel – This family-friendly motel in Beatty offers clean, comfortable rooms with refrigerators and microwaves, plus free WiFi and parking just 8 miles from Death Valley National Park entrance.
- El Portal Motel – Family-owned since 1958, this cozy motel features a seasonal outdoor pool, mountain views, and quiet location two blocks from Highway 95 with easy Death Valley access.
Best Middle-Range Hotels
- Death Valley Inn – Located at the historic Burro Inn site, this motel offers over 60 rooms, a beautiful pool with jacuzzi, barbecue area, and on-site laundry facilities within walking distance of restaurants.
- Atomic Inn – This retro-themed motel features newly remodeled rooms with microwaves, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs, located just 6 miles from Death Valley’s Hell’s Gate entrance with unique atomic-era charm.
5. Lone Pine, California – Where to Stay for Eastern Sierra Access
Mountain town charm. Lone Pine combines Death Valley access with Eastern Sierra attractions, positioning you 45 minutes from the park entrance while offering stunning views of Mount Whitney – the highest peak in the contiguous United States. I’ve used this town as a dual-purpose base for exploring both desert and mountain environments during single trips.
Film history significance. This historic town served as the filming location for hundreds of Western movies, creating a unique atmosphere that enhances the Death Valley experience. The Museum of Western Film History and Alabama Hills provide additional attractions when you need a break from desert exploration.
Elevation benefits. At 3,700 feet elevation, Lone Pine offers cooler temperatures than valley floor accommodations, making it particularly appealing during summer months when Death Valley becomes dangerously hot. I’ve experienced 20-30°F temperature differences that make outdoor activities more comfortable.
Service advantages include:
- Full-service hospitals and medical facilities
- Major grocery chains and pharmacies
- Equipment rental shops for outdoor gear
- Multiple dining options from fast food to fine dining
Lone Pine, California, Death Valley National Park
Strategic location value. Beyond Death Valley access, Lone Pine serves as the gateway to Mount Whitney, Alabama Hills, and Manzanar National Historic Site. I’ve planned multi-destination trips that maximize the area’s diverse attractions while using a single accommodation base.
Best Hotels in Lone Pine, California
Best Luxury Hotels
- Quality Inn Lone Pine near Mount Whitney – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with mountain views, complimentary breakfast, and outdoor pool, perfectly positioned for Death Valley access and Mount Whitney adventures.
- Dow Villa Motel – Historic motel dating back to 1923 featuring Western movie memorabilia, spacious rooms with kitchenettes, and authentic Old West atmosphere in the heart of Lone Pine’s film history district.
- Lone Pine Budget Inn – Clean, affordable accommodations with basic amenities including free WiFi, air conditioning, and convenient location near restaurants and shops with easy highway access to Death Valley.
Best Middle-Range Hotels
- Mount Whitney Motel – Family-owned motel offering comfortable rooms with refrigerators, stunning Sierra Nevada mountain views, and personalized service from hosts who provide local hiking and sightseeing recommendations.
- Portal Motel – Cozy motel featuring renovated rooms with modern amenities, outdoor seating areas, and prime location for exploring Alabama Hills filming locations and accessing Death Valley’s eastern entrance.
- Trails Motel – Budget-friendly motel with clean rooms, friendly staff, and convenient downtown location within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Museum of Western Film History.
6. Death Valley Campgrounds – Where to Stay for Outdoor Adventure
Campground diversity. Death Valley offers nine developed campgrounds ranging from sea level to 8,200 feet elevation, each providing distinct experiences I’ve tested across multiple seasons. This elevation range allows year-round camping by choosing appropriate sites based on weather conditions and personal comfort preferences.
Elevation-based strategy:
- Sea level camps (Texas Spring, Sunset): October-April optimal
- Mid-elevation camps (Emigrant, Wildrose): Extended seasons, moderate temperatures
- High-elevation camps (Thorndike, Mahogany Flat): Summer escape, snow possible
- Primitive sites (Mesquite Spring): Remote experience, basic facilities
Reservation requirements. Only Texas Spring Campground accepts advance reservations through Recreation.gov, while all others operate first-come-first-served. I arrive at popular sites before 10 AM during peak season to secure spots, especially during wildflower blooms when campgrounds fill rapidly.
Backcountry camping freedom. Death Valley permits free dispersed camping throughout most park areas, provided you stay 2 miles from developed areas and 1 mile from water sources. I’ve discovered incredible solitude camping near Racetrack Playa and in remote washes, but this requires high-clearance vehicles and extensive preparation.
Essential considerations. Water availability varies dramatically between campgrounds – some provide potable water year-round while others offer none. I always carry 2+ gallons per person daily, especially during summer when dehydration becomes life-threatening within hours. Firewood sales occur only at developed campgrounds since gathering wood is prohibited park-wide.
7. Ridgecrest, California – Where to Stay for Southern California Base
Regional hub advantages. Ridgecrest serves as the largest city near Death Valley with full urban amenities including hospitals, shopping centers, and chain restaurants. Located 75 miles from the park entrance, I’ve used this base when traveling with family members who prefer modern conveniences and reliable cell service.
Military town character. Home to China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, Ridgecrest offers a unique military town atmosphere with excellent infrastructure and services. The city provides reliable accommodations, 24-hour services, and emergency facilities that prove valuable when planning Death Valley expeditions.
Cost-effective option. Hotel rates in Ridgecrest remain stable year-round at $70-130 per night, unaffected by Death Valley’s seasonal pricing fluctuations. I’ve found this particularly valuable during peak park seasons when accommodation costs elsewhere skyrocket.
Service advantages:
- Major hospital with emergency services
- Large grocery stores and pharmacies
- Equipment and outdoor gear shops
- Multiple fuel stations and automotive services
Ridgecrest, California, Death Valley National Park
Distance considerations. The 1.5-hour drive to Death Valley requires careful planning, especially during summer when afternoon heat becomes dangerous. I recommend early morning departures and late afternoon returns to avoid peak temperature periods that can stress both vehicles and passengers.
Best Hotels in Ridgecrest, California
Luxury Hotels
- SpringHill Suites Ridgecrest – This modern all-suite hotel features spacious rooms with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and outdoor pool, perfect for extended stays near China Lake Naval Station.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ridgecrest - China Lake by IHG – Contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities, free hot breakfast, fitness center, and business facilities, ideally located for military personnel and Death Valley visitors.
- Best Western China Lake Inn – Full-service hotel featuring well-appointed rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant, providing reliable comfort and quality service in Ridgecrest’s hospitality scene.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Red Roof Inn Ridgecrest – Budget-friendly hotel offering clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities, pet-friendly policies, and convenient location near shopping and dining options in central Ridgecrest.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Ridgecrest near China Lake Naval Station – Affordable accommodation featuring renovated rooms with modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, and proximity to China Lake Naval Station and local attractions.
- Clarion Inn Near China Lake Naval Station – Mid-range hotel providing comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, and business facilities, catering to both military guests and leisure travelers exploring the Mojave Desert region.
Best Budget Hotels
- Hotel Ridgecrest An Extended Stay Studio – Extended stay hotel offering studio apartments with kitchenettes, perfect for long-term visitors to China Lake Naval Station or Death Valley explorers needing affordable weekly rates.
- Baymont by Wyndham Ridgecrest – Value-oriented hotel featuring clean rooms with basic amenities, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, and pet-friendly policies, ideal for budget-conscious travelers and military families.
- Howard Johnson by Wyndham Ridgecrest, CA – No-frills budget hotel offering simple, clean accommodations with essential amenities, outdoor pool, and convenient location for accessing Death Valley and local military facilities.
8. Bishop, California – Where to Stay for Eastern Sierra Gateway
High desert location. Bishop sits at 4,150 feet elevation in the Owens Valley, providing a cool mountain town atmosphere while maintaining reasonable access to Death Valley’s eastern attractions. I’ve appreciated the dramatic temperature relief this elevation provides, especially during summer months when valley locations become unbearable.
Outdoor recreation hub. This town serves as the gateway to multiple outdoor destinations including Mammoth Lakes, Eastern Sierra hot springs, and ancient bristlecone pine forests. I’ve planned extended trips using Bishop as a base for exploring diverse landscapes from desert floors to alpine peaks.
Full-service amenities. Bishop offers comprehensive services including major grocery chains, outdoor equipment stores, medical facilities, and diverse dining options. The town’s tourism infrastructure provides reliable accommodations and services that cater to outdoor enthusiasts visiting the region.
Seasonal considerations include:
- Winter: Potential snow, chain requirements for mountain passes
- Spring: Wildflower viewing in nearby areas
- Summer: Escape from Death Valley heat
- Fall: Optimal weather for multi-destination trips
Bishop, California, Death Valley National Park
Distance reality. The 2-hour drive to Death Valley makes Bishop suitable for multi-day park visits rather than daily commuting. I recommend this base for travelers planning 3+ day Death Valley stays combined with Eastern Sierra exploration.
Best Hotels in Bishop, California
Luxury Hotels
- Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bishop by IHG – This modern hotel offers spacious rooms with mountain views, complimentary hot breakfast, fitness center, and indoor pool, perfectly positioned for Eastern Sierra adventures and Death Valley access.
- Cielo Hotel Bishop-Mammoth, Ascend Hotel Collection – Boutique hotel featuring contemporary rooms with premium amenities, stunning Sierra Nevada views, fitness center, and upscale atmosphere in the heart of Bishop’s outdoor recreation hub.
- Comfort Inn Bishop – Full-service hotel offering comfortable accommodations with mountain views, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, and convenient downtown location near shops and restaurants.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Quality Inn Bishop near Mammoth – Mid-range hotel providing clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities, outdoor pool, and strategic location for accessing both Mammoth Lakes and Death Valley attractions.
- Vagabond Inn Bishop – Family-owned motel offering affordable accommodations with refrigerators, microwaves, outdoor pool, and personalized service from local hosts who provide excellent area recommendations.
- Travelodge by Wyndham Bishop – Budget-friendly hotel featuring renovated rooms with modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, and convenient highway access for Death Valley and Eastern Sierra exploration.
Best Budget Hotels
- The Hostel California – Unique budget accommodation offering dormitory-style rooms and private options with shared facilities, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers exploring the Eastern Sierra region.
- Trees Motel – Simple, clean motel providing basic accommodations with essential amenities, friendly service, and affordable rates for budget-conscious travelers visiting Death Valley and surrounding attractions.
FAQ
What lodging options exist inside Death Valley?
The Inn at Death Valley and Ranch at Death Valley provide luxury accommodations within death valley national park. Camping in death valley offers budget-friendly alternatives with nine developed campgrounds throughout the park.
Where should I stay near Death Valley?
Towns near death valley like Beatty, Nevada and Lone Pine, California offer hotels near death valley at lower rates. These locations require daily driving but provide full services unavailable within the park.
Is Ranch at Death Valley worth staying?
Ranch at Death Valley offers family-friendly accommodations with golf course access in the heart of the park. This lodging option provides excellent value compared to premium Inn rates while maintaining convenient park access.
What’s the best time to visit Death Valley?
Best time to visit death valley spans October through April when temperatures remain comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer visits require staying inside death valley national park with air conditioning due to extreme heat.
Should I stay inside Death Valley National Park?
Staying within death valley national park eliminates daily entrance fees and maximizes exploration time. However, lodging in death valley costs significantly more than accommodations in surrounding gateway towns.
What camping options exist in Death Valley?
Campground in death valley ranges from developed sites with hookups to primitive backcountry locations. Furnace Creek remains the only reservable campground, while others operate first-come-first-served throughout the park.
How do I get to Death Valley?
Vegas to death valley requires 2 hours driving via Highway 160, while Los Angeles access takes 4-5 hours. Multiple entrance points provide access to the park depending on your chosen accommodations.
What’s available at Oasis at Death Valley?
Oasis at death valley encompasses both Inn and Ranch properties offering diverse accommodation styles. This resort complex provides the only full-service lodging option within death valley national park.
Where can I find Death Valley Junction?
Death valley junction sits at the park’s eastern entrance providing basic services and historical significance. This small community offers limited lodging but serves as a gateway for park access.
What makes Death Valley special among parks?
Death valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states covering 3.4 million acres. This us national park holds records for hottest temperature and lowest elevation in North America.
