Some Like it Hot: Furnace Creek Campground, Death

Valley, Ca.

Furnace Creek Campground, Death Valley is an

amazing place to go camping; it has some
extremely hot weather through a few months of
the summer, reaching over 110oF during the day
and 80oF at night. Later in the year it cools
somewhat and in the depths of winter it reaches
only 60oF during the day and around freezing at
night. The average annual precipitation is around 2
inches, so Furnace Creek, Death Valley is a very
arid and dry area. Water is available at the campground and there are toilets and limited
sinks to wash in to get the dust off, but for those who want to stay clean, the best option is
either a solar camping shower in the winter or just a regular camping shower in the summer.
Those with RV’s may not have to worry so much but enjoying the great outdoors in a hot
dusty area will soon have you pining for a dousing!

The site is situated in the valley with a great view of the ominous sounding Funeral Mountains
to the South-East where there is a wilderness park that can be visited.
The site offers spectacular scenic views and the sunsets can be awesome. Only a few miles
from the Furnace Creek Campground is a nearby golf course for those who like to play a
round or two. The campsite is divided between family/group pitches which mostly have picnic
tables and a fire-pit and individual pitches which share their facilities with nearby campers;
there is generally plenty of room and tables for everyone. With over 100 spots there is no
shortage of nice spots to pitch your tent in! The campground allows pets as long as the
owners keep dogs on a leash when on the site and clean up after them. Tamarisk trees on
the Western side of the site offer much appreciated shade during the hotter months too.
There’s a machine to pay for the night’s camping or dues can be paid at the nearby visitor
center where cheerful staff will help you with anything they need to know about camping and
the surrounding attractions. Reservations can also be made at the Visitor Center. The Death
Valley National Park is only a few miles down the highway and a fascinating place to see
some great wonders of nature.

Although it might sound a bit extreme, Death Valley camping really is a fun way to spend a
week or two relaxing in the outdoors. Outside the searing hot summer days, a very pleasant
time can be had at this quiet campground where there always seem to be plenty of friendly
faces. The lack of shower facilities is the only thing missing at this site but that can be
remedied with a solar camping shower - there’s no shortage of sunshine to heat the water
here!!