Located along the border of California and Nevada, this mesmerizing landscape spans the Great Basin and Mojave Deserts. With its distinction as the largest national park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley boasts several remarkable features—it is not only the most extensive, but also the hottest, driest, and lowest-elevation park.

Death Valley National Park also has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was once inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Timbisha Shoshone, who consider the valley their ancestral homeland. These tribes relied on the scarce resources of the desert, such as plants and wildlife, to sustain their communities.

In the mid-1800s, European-Americans explored the region, and it became a significant route for westward migration and mining during the California Gold Rush. The valley’s name, “Death Valley,” is attributed to a group of pioneers who, in 1849, struggled to cross the harsh landscape and nearly perished in the extreme conditions.

Throughout the years, the area saw mining booms, but they were often short-lived due to the challenges posed by the harsh environment. Today, the park preserves numerous historic sites, awe-inspiring beauty of hot deserts, rugged mountains, and captivating salt flats as you embark on an RV adventure to Death Valley National Park.

Additionally, volcanic activity in the past has shaped the landscape, leaving behind volcanic craters and colorful deposits. The salt flats at Badwater Basin, formed from ancient lakebeds and subsequent evaporation, create a mesmerizing expanse of white, making it one of the most striking features of the park.

During the peak summer season, it is advisable to limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening when temperatures are more bearable. RV renters should plan to stay in shaded areas during the day and use air conditioning when available. Additionally, keeping a close eye on weather forecasts and heat advisories is essential to be aware of any potential dangers.

Your journey can lead you to natural hot springs, breathtaking stargazing spots, and invigorating hikes through the desert wilderness. When hunger strikes, make a stop at Furnace Creek for a satisfying meal. Afterward, venture into the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes or delve into history at the Keane Wonder Mine. From the comfort of your RV, you can marvel at the natural wonders, such as the salt flats at Badwater Basin and the striking rock formations of Devil’s Golf Course. And don’t miss the spectacular sunrise vista of the badlands at Zabriskie Point.

While the most popular time to visit is from October through April due to scorching summer temperatures exceeding 120 degrees, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available throughout the year across the vast three-million-acre park.

Many must-see sites are accessible by RV, and there are several RV-friendly campgrounds to ensure you can rest in comfort. Most of the campsites permit generator usage during daytime hours, and you can conveniently find supplies in Furnace Creek, including food, gas, and other essentials.

For a chance to witness extraordinary natural wonders found nowhere else in the world, a trip through Death Valley National Park in an RV is an absolute must.