Just Chillin’ in Great Basin National Park
Awe-Inspiring Great Basin National Park is a Peaceful Retreat for RVing with Your Pets
Image Caption: Photo Credit: ElizabethM. Ruggiero/Getty
Great Basin National Park wasn’t a national park I had heard much about. But when we traveled through the state of Nevada, we were looking for some peace, quiet, and beauty, all rolled up in a dog-friendly package. Great Basin National Park was out of our way, but once I read up on what it offered, I knew we had to make the journey there. I am so glad that we did because it ended up being one of our favorite places to camp.
Camping at Great Basin National Park puts you right in the center of an experience. And isn’t that what RV travel should lead you to? The ancient bristlecone pines, the subterranean caves, and the views at the top are just the beginning of this national treasure.
Many travelers choose campgrounds or campsites based on amenities. And although we certainly enjoy the convenience of amenities from time to time, we think that there is a place for true camping. Our definition of that means unique and beautiful surroundings, a respect for nature, and a feeling that comes over us when alone with the stars. With its diversity and beauty, Great Basin National Park made us feel so fortunate to have chosen the full-time RV lifestyle.
Photo Credit: Rachel Johnson
We could see the snow-covered mountain peaks in the distance. And we could feel serenity all around us. We had no water hookup. We had no electrical hookup. We had no hookups at all. So we did have to make preparations. We had to fill our RV’s water tanks and make sure when we could run the generator. We had candles in case of an emergency, and we made sure to stock up on groceries. Not only were we boondocking, but grocery stores and fuel stations were at least an hour’s drive outside of the park.
Since this was one of the first places where we’ve camped that had absolutely no hookups, we learned how self-reliant and flexible we can be. Our campsite put us right at the edge of a flowing stream so we could sit there all day and take refreshing dips. We discovered that stargazing takes on a new meaning! This is a place that will leave you in awe of the sky. The caves and visitor center were certainly unexpected. I recommend planning at least four hours to see the caves. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed, so get in a good hike beforehand.
We could not make reservations, so chanced that we would get a site. Most park camping is on a first-come, first-served basis, but tent camping reservations can be made at the Grey Cliffs Campground from the end of May to the end of September. All camping reservations are now handled by recreation.gov and require a two-night minimum.
Don’t leave Great Basin National Park out of your travel plans. It may not be as well-known as other national parks or as visited. But that’s part of the reason it was special to us. We knew we had found a treasure. And it will always be in our hearts!
Photo Credit: Rachel Johnson
What to Expect
Great Basin National Park has five developed campgrounds: Upper Lehman Creek, Lower Lehman Creek, Baker Creek, Grey Cliffs, and Wheeler Peak. No vehicles over 24 feet in length are allowed past the Upper Lehman Campground, and all others should proceed with caution.
Some of the campgrounds are closed seasonally due to weather, and each developed campground has vault toilets, picnic tables, tent pads, and campfire grills. There are no hookups. Potable water is not available at the campgrounds at this time, but potable water for filling containers can be found at the Great Basin and Lehman Caves visitor centers. Each campsite is limited to eight people, three tents, and two vehicles. There are three campgrounds with accessible sites. Primitive campgrounds can be found along Snake Creek Road.
People + Pet Perks
- No cell service means campers have more time to go on walks and explore.
- Hearing the stream all day and night is beyond inspiring.
- There are unique picture opportunities found nowhere else. You will truly get in touch with your inner photographer.
- Complete peace and quiet helps senior dogs relax.
- New smells and scenery help keep dogs mentally active.
- Snow can be found nearly year-round at some places in the park.
- Right outside of the park, look for a coffee stand. We met some of the friendliest staff and enjoyed amazing organic coffee and desserts.
