Are you looking for the ideal camping destination? Look no further than Great Basin National Park. With its vast landscapes, endless recreational activities, and unmatched natural beauty, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this incredible park each year.
Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer wanting to try something new, Great Basin National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure! In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from where to camp at the park and what supplies you need. We’ll also dive into all of the amazing activities available in the area as well as some helpful tips for making your trip even more successful.
Where To Camp
Great Basin National Park provides many camping opportunities for visitors, and the most popular tend to be car camping, backcountry camping, and primitive camping.
Car Camping: The great thing about car camping is that you have easy access to your vehicle when needed. Great Basin National Park offers two main campgrounds: Upper Lehman Creek Campground & Lower Lehman Creek Campground. Both sites offer a range of amenities such as restrooms with flush toilets, fire pits, picnic tables and bear-proof trash cans.
Backcountry Camping: For those seeking a more adventurous experience in the park’s remote areas, backcountry camping is available at no charge provided you obtain a free permit from the visitor center or station before setting out on your adventure. Be sure to bring all necessary supplies such as food and water since these will not be available at your campsite; also keep in mind that there are no bathrooms or other facilities so plan accordingly!
Primitive Camping: Primitive campers should look for an area away from trails where they can set up their tents without disturbing other visitors or wildlife. Primitive campers should also prepare for cold nights since severe temperatures can occur during summer evenings in Great Basin National Park – make sure you bring proper clothing and gear! Additionally, always practice Leave No Trace ethics while enjoying the outdoors; this includes disposing of human waste properly by burying it at least 200 feet from any water source.
Great Basin National Park Campgrounds
Great Basin National Park is situated in the remote area of east-central Nevada and boasts an array of camping options. Campers at this park can choose from established campgrounds, backcountry camping, or primitive camping – each offering a unique experience.
The three developed campgrounds – Lower Lehman Creek, Upper Lehman Creek, and Baker Creek – are located within the park boundaries and offer amenities like picnic tables, grills, fire rings, pit toilets and drinking water sources. These campgrounds have a 14 day stay limit but no reservations are required/accepted so be sure to arrive early during peak season as these spots may fill up fast!
For those who prefer more solitude while camping in Great Basin National Park will appreciate the primitive campsites which do require a backcountry permit that must be obtained at the visitor center before setting out on your journey. Primitive sites are accessed by foot or horseback only and offers excellent opportunities for more privacy due to their secluded nature.
Backcountry Campsites can also be found throughout the park with some being accessible by car as well as either walking or horseback riding trails. These sites generally provide several fire pits for cooking meals along with some makeshift picnic tables made from logs found in the area. Additionally they often lack potable water so it’s important to plan ahead when packing supplies for your trip if you intend on exploring areas away from one of the developed campground areas.
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping is a great way to truly immerse yourself in the wilderness. It allows you to explore areas that may not be accessible by car, and gives you a chance to enjoy some peace and quiet away from it all. Before heading out on your backcountry camping trip, make sure you are properly prepared for the conditions of the area.
Gather Information: Research the terrain and climate of your chosen location so that you know what type of gear and supplies will be needed for survival. Research animal sightings and any potential hazards such as dangerous plants or cliffs in order to stay safe during your journey.
Pack Lightly: When packing for a backcountry camping trip, remember that you will have to carry all of your items with you as there won’t be any nearby access points where more supplies can be obtained. Pack only essential items, such as tents, sleeping bags, food, water, first aid kits and flashlights.
Be Respectful: Whenever possible avoid making fires or disturbing wildlife while exploring an area where many animals call home. Practice leaving no trace principles when setting up camp so that future visitors can enjoy their experience just like yours without being disturbed by human presence or waste left behind.
Remember Your Permit: Make sure to obtain the proper permits before embarking on your adventure – both state parks and national forests require permits for overnight stays in certain areas in order to protect their land from overuse or destruction caused by visitors who do not respect its beauty or inhabitants!
Primitive Camping
Primitive camping is a great way to experience the beauty of nature without modern amenities. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who want to get back to basics and take on Mother Nature.
At Great Basin National Park, primitive camping sites are located away from established campgrounds and can only be accessed by foot or horseback. You’ll need all your own gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, food, first aid kit, flashlight and other essential supplies.
Before you go primitive camping in Great Basin National Park, make sure you know what animals might inhabit the area – there may be bears or mountain lions that could pose danger if they encounter humans! In addition to knowing which wild animals you should avoid while camping at Great Basin National Park, also remember to follow Leave No Trace Principles: dispose of trash properly; leave natural objects undisturbed; respect wildlife; stay on existing trails; don’t pollute water sources; keep fires contained and use wood responsibly.
It’s an excellent idea to have a buddy with you when going primitive camping so that if something goes wrong or someone gets injured there will be someone else around who can help out in any way needed.
What To Bring
If you’re planning to camp at Great Basin National Park, there are a few must-have items that should be on your packing list. A tent and sleeping bag will provide shelter and warmth in the evening, while food is essential for keeping up your energy during any outdoor activity.
In addition to these core camping supplies, you’ll want to make sure that you have a first aid kit, flashlight or headlamp, and other miscellaneous items like extra clothing layers and bug spray.
The size of your tent should accommodate the number of people in your party as well as any additional gear needed for the trip. Look for a lightweight option with plenty of ventilation so that condensation doesn’t build up overnight.
Your sleeping bag should also fit the conditions (temperature) expected on your trip; if temperatures can vary significantly between night and day consider taking both an insulated sleeping bag along with a warm liner or blanket.
When it comes to food, plan enough meals for each day you’ll be camping plus one extra meal just in case something goes wrong and you need more time outdoors than planned. Nonperishable snacks are also important for keeping up energy levels throughout the day – think trail mix or granola bars – as well as salty snacks like chips or popcorn which can help replace electrolytes lost when sweating during activities like hiking or horseback riding.
Finally, don’t forget about basic first aid items such as bandages, hydrogen peroxide wipes and ibuprofen; all great things to include in case anyone gets injured while out exploring the park!
Tent
When it comes to camping, a tent is an essential item. The right tent can make your time in the outdoors comfortable and enjoyable. When choosing a tent for camping at Great Basin National Park, consider three main factors: size, weight, and weather-resistance.
Size: If you are traveling alone or with a small group of people, choose a lightweight two-person tent that has enough room for one person to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped. If you are traveling with more than two people, consider getting a larger four- or six-person tent. Make sure the size of the tent is appropriate for your needs; if you get one too big for your group size, it will be much heavier to carry around and harder to set up!
Weight: Tent weights vary widely depending on their size and features. Choose one that won’t be too heavy when packed so best opt for lighter models made from synthetic fabrics and aluminum poles instead of heavy canvas tents with steel frames.
Weather Resistance: It’s important to know what kind of weather conditions you may encounter while camping at Great Basin National Park before selecting your tent – some regions experience snow or cold temperatures during certain times of the year while other areas may only experience rain showers during summer months.
Look out for features such as waterproof seams and coatings as well as built-in ventilation systems that allow air circulation even when all zippers are closed to ensure comfortable sleeping conditions regardless of weather changes outside!
Sleeping Bag
When packing for camping, an essential item to bring with you is a sleeping bag. A sleeping bag should keep you warm and comfortable while out in the elements. It’s important to choose the right sleeping bag for your needs – you’ll want one that is rated appropriately for the climate and season of your destination and also fits your body size. You may also want to consider other features such as moisture-wicking materials or down insulation.
When choosing a sleeping bag, the two main factors are temperature ratings and shape/size. Temperature ratings indicate how much warmth the sleeping bag provides by giving it a range of temperatures in which it can be safely used (e.g., 40°F-50°F).
It’s important to remember that these are guidelines only – if you’re camping in extreme conditions, make sure that you have an appropriate setup such as additional blankets or an insulated bivy sack along with your sleeping bag.
The shape/size of your sleeping bags should be determined by both height and width measurements – some brands offer different sizes (e.g., petite, regular, tall) so make sure to do some research before purchasing one. Additionally, women’s specific models are designed with extra insulation around core areas like hips and shoulders for added warmth!
Food
Packing the right food for your camping trip is essential, as it will provide you with energy and help you stay healthy. You shouldn’t skimp on the quality or quantity of food that you bring, as it’s important to ensure that everyone in your group has enough sustenance throughout the trip.
When packing food for a multi-day camping trip at Great Basin National Park, make sure to bring plenty of non-perishables such as granola bars, oatmeal packets, trail mix and snacks like jerky and nuts.
Additionally, consider bringing canned goods like beans or vegetables in order to create more filling meals. If possible, try to include some fresh produce like apples or oranges when packing your perishables.
In terms of drinks, water is obviously an essential item; however you may want to also bring additional beverages such as juice boxes or tea bags for variety. A nice treat could be homemade hot chocolate mix which can add a touch of luxury during colder nights! Lastly don’t forget condiments such as salt/pepper shakers and various sauces if needed – these will go a long way towards making any meals tastier!
First Aid Kit
When going on any outdoor camping adventure, it’s important to always have a first aid kit on hand. This is especially true when camping at Great Basin National Park due to the remote nature of the region and potential hazards that could present themselves.
A good first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages in various sizes, sterile gauze, elastic bandages, tweezers for removing splinters or ticks, burn ointment/creams for minor burns, pain relief medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (if they are permissible by your doctor).
It is also highly recommended to bring along an insect repellent such as DEET as well as sunscreen and lip balm with SPF protection.
At least one person in each group should be knowledgeable about how to use all the items contained in the first aid kit – this will ensure that medical attention can be effectively administered if needed. Additionally, you may want to consider bringing a handheld GPS device with you so you can mark your location in case help needs to be called from outside the park.
Flashlight
A flashlight can be an essential tool when camping, especially if you will be exploring at night. It can be used to light your way and allow for greater visibility of the surrounding area. Flashlights come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs.
When choosing a flashlight for camping, it is important to consider the type of batteries that are required. Rechargeable flashlights are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and environmental friendliness, but they may not always be available in all areas or with all types of equipment. Furthermore, having extra batteries on hand is always a good idea since you never know when they might run out unexpectedly.
The brightness of the flashlight should also be taken into account as this will determine how much light you will have while exploring at night or searching for something in your tent. Some models offer adjustable brightness settings which can help extend battery life if necessary.
Additionally, many flashlights now come with features such as waterproofing and built-in strobe lights which can make them more practical while camping outdoors.
Finally, flashlights made from aluminum are typically more durable than plastic ones due to their increased strength and resistance to corrosion over time. Therefore, opting for an aluminum flashlight may save you money in the long run if you plan on using it frequently while camping at Great Basin National Park.
Things To Do
Great Basin National Park provides plenty of activities for campers to enjoy. From hiking and fishing to horseback riding and stargazing, there’s something here for everyone.
Hiking: The park offers a variety of trails that range from easy to strenuous. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or an all-day hike, you’ll find it here!
Fishing: Fishing is allowed at Great Basin National Park with valid permits obtained in advance. Be sure to abide by the regulations outlined on the website when fishing in the area to ensure that fish populations are maintained for future generations to enjoy.
Horseback Riding: If you’re interested in exploring more remote areas of the park, consider taking a guided horseback ride! These rides provide a unique perspective on the landscape and views not available any other way.
Stargazing: On clear nights, visitors can get a spectacular view of the night sky from inside the park boundaries due to its elevation and lack of light pollution. Come prepared with binoculars or star charts so you don’t miss out on any detail!
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the beauty of Great Basin National Park. For novice hikers, the Wheeler Peak Trail is a popular option as it leads to the summit of 13,063 foot peak and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
There are also numerous other trails throughout the park which offer varying levels of difficulty, ranging from relatively flat nature walks to challenging alpine hikes.
When planning your hike, be sure to take into account any elevation changes that you may encounter so you can prepare accordingly in terms of gear and supplies.
Additionally, check for trail closures or alerts before heading out – some trails may be closed due to inclement weather or wildlife activity.
It’s also important to bring plenty of water and food on any long hikes as well as appropriate clothing for changing climates; temperatures can vary significantly between different elevations so be prepared for anything!
It’s always recommended that you let someone know where you’re going before setting out on a long hike – this way someone will be able to locate you if something happens while you’re out.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Great Basin National Park. It offers many opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels, with four lakes and two creeks available to fish.
The most popular location for fishing is Baker Creek, which offers Brook Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout. Lehman Creek has the same species as well as Mountain Whitefish. The two lakes in the park—Grimes Lake and Wheeler Peak Lake—offer cutthroat trout.
When fishing in any of these locations, it’s important to follow the regulations set forth by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW).
That includes having a valid Nevada or Utah fishing license, following catch limits on certain species of fish, using artificial lures only (no live bait), not keeping any threatened or endangered species such as Lahontan Cutthroat Trout or Bullhead Catfish that may be encountered in some of these waters.
It’s also important to remember that Great Basin National Park is located at high elevation (7000ft/2133m) so anglers should prepare accordingly by dressing warmly even on hot summer days when temperatures can drop drastically once the sun sets or if it rains while you’re out on the water. Fishing gear should also be checked before heading out—make sure your tackle box is stocked with hooks, weights and other supplies you may need during your trip!
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the remote areas of Great Basin National Park. With miles of trails throughout the park, you can find a perfect route for you and your horse.
Before setting off on your ride, make sure to get familiar with the trail maps and check them for any special requirements or closures. Also, plan your route so that you have enough time before sunset to return safely.
Consider bringing along supplies like extra water and snacks for both yourself and your horse as well as an emergency first aid kit in case either one of you gets injured while out on the trail. It is also important to be aware of any wildlife that may be living in or near the park so that you know how to act if an animal approaches while out riding.
If possible, it’s always best to go with someone else when horseback riding at Great Basin National Park – this will ensure that there are two sets of eyes watching for potential trouble spots. Having another rider can also come in handy if one person needs a break from their mount during longer rides!
Stargazing
Stargazing is a great way to take in the beauty of the night sky and Great Basin National Park offers some of the darkest night skies in the Western United States. The park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park due to its incredibly low light pollution, making it ideal for star-gazers.
When visiting for stargazing, plan ahead and bring binoculars or a telescope if you have them available. This will allow you to get a closer look at constellations and other features in the night sky. Make sure you dress appropriately for cooler temperatures as well since nighttime weather can be quite cold even during summer months.
Before heading out at night, check local forecasts and know when moonrise is because bright moonlight can impede your view of stars. Also, be aware that some astronomical events – such as meteor showers – are best seen with only half or two-thirds of a moon in the sky since too much light will interfere with viewing these events clearly.
Finally, make sure that any electronic devices you bring are turned off or put into airplane mode so they don’t create additional light pollution which could disturb your experience and hinder views of dimmer stars that would otherwise be visible.
Tips For Camping
Camping is an enjoyable experience, but it’s also important to be prepared. Here are some tips for camping at Great Basin National Park:
Be Prepared For Weather Changes: The weather in the desert can change quickly, so make sure you have suitable clothing and gear that will keep you warm and dry. A heavy coat and hat are essential if temperatures drop suddenly during the night. Additionally, pack plenty of sunscreen and lip balm for hot days.
Know What Animals To Avoid: Rattlesnakes, scorpions, spiders, and other potentially dangerous animals inhabit the park. Make sure to research which animals you may encounter while camping so that you know how to react if necessary. Also be aware of potential food sources such as small rodents or reptiles as they might attract predators like coyotes or bears.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Be mindful of your impact on the environment when camping in Great Basin National Park by following Leave No Trace principles whenever possible.
This includes storing all food properly so that wildlife cannot access it; leaving nothing behind except footprints; disposing of all waste appropriately; respecting wildlife from a distance; and keeping noise levels low to avoid disturbing other campers or any nearby wildlife.
Bring A Buddy: Last but not least, make sure to bring a buddy with you who is capable of helping out should anything go wrong during your trip! That way there will be someone around who can lend a hand if needed – especially helpful given that cell service isn’t always reliable in rural areas like this park!
Be Prepared For Weather Changes
It’s important to be aware of the potential for quickly changing weather conditions when camping at Great Basin National Park. The park is home to dramatic changes in elevation, from 4,000-13,000 feet above sea level, which can mean a wide range of temperatures and moisture levels throughout the day.
Always have a plan B if you’re expecting bad weather during your trip. Make sure you bring enough warm clothing and rain gear to keep yourself dry and comfortable in any type of weather condition. If possible, bring an all-weather tent that is designed specifically for extreme conditions like strong wind or snowfall.
Be aware of the forecast before heading out on your trip so you can adjust your plans accordingly if needed. It’s better to be safe than sorry – it won’t hurt to double check what kind of conditions are being predicted! Also, make sure you always carry an emergency kit with items such as extra food or water supplies and medical kits just in case something goes wrong during your stay at Great Basin National Park.
Know What Animals To Avoid
Great Basin National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, both large and small. While this can make camping in the area enjoyable and exciting, it’s important that you take precautions when encountering these animals. Most of the time they will avoid human contact but if provoked, could become dangerous.
Be sure to research what types of animals are common in the area before arriving at your campsite. It’s also helpful to learn about their behavior and how to properly interact with them if you come into contact with one or more during your stay.
You should never approach or attempt to touch any wild animal as they can be unpredictable and there is always a risk for injury or even death from a wild animal attack.
When it comes to larger predators, such as mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes and bears, familiarize yourself on how best confront them if encountered while camping at Great Basin National Park:
For smaller predators like coyotes and bobcats: Make yourself look big by standing tall; maintain eye contact; pick up small children without turning away; do not run; wave arms slowly above head while making loud noises; throw rocks or sticks near predator but not directly at them.
For larger predators like bears: Remain calm and don’t run away – running may trigger an attack response from the bear since they instinctively chase after things that are fleeing from them; remain still until bear moves away on its own accord; back away slowly while facing the bear but don’t turn your back completely until you’ve reached a safe distance (usually over 50 feet).
Always carry bear spray when exploring off trail in remote areas of Great Basin National Park – this is especially true for early morning hikes when visibility is low because nocturnal animals may still be active at sunrise!
Follow Leave No Trace Principles
When it comes to camping in Great Basin National Park, one important thing to remember is the Leave No Trace principles. These principles exist to protect the natural environment and ensure that we leave it better than when we found it. The seven Leave No Trace principles are:
Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll be visiting, as well as what you should bring with you on your trip.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Respect wildlife and do not disturb any park features or damage vegetations while traveling or camping.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Always pack out all trash, including food scraps, wrappers, hygiene products etc., so that nothing can harm animals or plants near campgrounds or trails.
Leave What You Find: Take only photos — never take items from nature such as rocks, plants etc., unless otherwise directed by park officials/ rangers who may have specific exceptions for educational purposes or scientific research needs .
Minimize Campfire Impacts : If campfires are allowed in a particular location then follow fire restrictions closely; consider bringing a portable stove instead of using an open fire if possible; put out campfires completely before leaving each campsite; use established fire rings for campfires if available; never leave a fire unattended; disperse ashes away from trees/vegetation when disposing of them after putting out the fire completely—this helps prevent forest fires too!
Respect Wildlife : Never feed wildlife—this could harm their health & put both human & animal at risk; keep distance from wild animals to avoid stressing them unnecessarily; observe wildlife quietly without disturbing its behavior or habitat .
Be Considerate Of Other Visitors : Be courteous to other visitors & respect their right to enjoy their trip peacefully too! Keep noise levels down & stay within designated trails wherever possible (especially when exploring backcountry areas). Respect historic sites & cultural artifacts you may find during your visit—these will become part of legacy that future generations can enjoy together with us!
Bring A Buddy
When camping, it’s always best to bring a buddy or travel with a group. This helps reduce the risks of injury and can make any situation much more enjoyable. Having someone there to help set up camp, gather firewood, spot wildlife, and act as an extra set of eyes for safety is invaluable while in the outdoors.
Additionally, bringing at least one other person also allows you to split up tasks such as gathering water or collecting wild edibles so that they get done faster. In case of emergency situations like being lost or injured, having another person around can potentially save your life by helping you find your way back or providing first aid treatment until medical attention arrives.
If you’re travelling alone and don’t want to bring a friend along, consider finding an experienced outdoor guide who is familiar with the area you’ll be exploring. They will have knowledge about local trails and access points as well as info on any potential hazards like dangerous animals or weather patterns to look out for during your journey.
Conclusion
Camping at Great Basin National Park is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. With a variety of camping options, it’s easy to find one that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for an RV campground, backcountry camping, or primitive campsites, there is sure to be something for everyone.
When planning your trip, make sure you are prepared for all types of weather conditions and have all the necessary supplies such as a tent, sleeping bag, food, first aid kit and flashlight. Additionally know what animals to avoid in order to stay safe while outdoors.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay such as hiking trails throughout the park offering stunning views; fishing spots dotting the lake’s shoreline; horseback riding through forested areas; or just simply stargazing up at the night sky filled with bright stars above.
By following Leave No Trace principles you can help ensure future visitors will be able to enjoy this beautiful area just like we did today — leaving only footprints behind! Finally don’t forget that spending time in Nature is always more enjoyable when shared with friends or family so consider bringing a buddy on your next outdoor adventure!
