1000Pks wrote:tonyo wrote:Does anyone have an idea of the chances of getting a campsite at either Mahogany Flat or Emigrant campground in Death Valley late Friday night on Labor Day weekend? Hate to drive all that way and get shut out... Any other options for camping in the area that don't include the valley floor or backpacking in? Appreciate any help!
In the other NPs they do double duty to look for errant campers. We tried sleeping in the car once, and a ranger came by at midnight or 1 a.m. to rouse me out. He was nice, just saying, "You can't camp here." Luckily, we found a spot outside the park and just tossed out our bags. On BLM land, primitive camping anywhere in the desert is allowed. If there are no spots at a legal site, just be prepared to drive to plan b. Have little idea about DV on Labor Day, but I'd say you may have little problem. Of course there can be a large enviro group of 40 people hogging up every spot, go check their websites for scheduled trips as a heads up.
I thought in Death Valley you can dispersed camp pretty much anywhere, except for the main valley floor?
EDIT:
Seems you can camp nearly anywhere- if not on a paved road.
Where is backcountry camping allowed?
More than two miles away from any developed area, paved road, or "day use only" area.
Camp only in previously disturbed areas and park your vehicle close to the roadway to minimize impact.
http://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/backcamp.htm