Experience Death Valley desert nights and epic canopies of stars while camping near Olancha.
From snow-capped peaks to desert flats below sea level, the natural areas around Olancha are as diverse as its camping options. To the east, Death Valley National Park lives up to its legendary status with dramatic desert scenery. Winter camping is generally preferable, as summertime temperatures can soar over 100°F—even overnight. Or plan a trip during the annual Dark Sky Festival every March. Mountain bikers can challenge Artist’s Drive here, while hikers ascend Dante’s Ridge. Campgrounds by Furnace Creek are convenient with walk-in tent sites and pull-through RV sites for big rigs up to 100 feet in length, as well as amenities like full hookups, flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. North of Olancha, Inyo National Forest offers a different experience with its mountain meadows and bristlecone pines in the shadows of Mount Whitney. Traverse hiking trails through the 650,000-acre John Muir Wilderness nearby and look for mountain lions, bighorn sheep, and yellow-bellied marmots. Campers must use the provided food storage lockers—black bears frequent the area.