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Early winter in the Great Basin

Wheeler Peak Campground

Closed

Closed for the season. The campground typically opens late May to early July depending on snow conditions and weather. Reservations available via Recreation.gov up to 30 days in advance once the season begins. Subject to closure without notice due to early winter weather, which can arrive as early as September. No potable water available.

Flood Watch issued July 20 at 8:56AM PDT until July 21 at 9:00PM PDT by NWS Elko NV

8:56 AM — July 21st, 11:00 AM

Monsoonal moisture will stream northward into most of Northern and Central Nevada Tuesday, with historically high atmospheric moisture content. The strongest showers and thunderstorms Tuesday will produce intense rainfall rates, resulting in the potential of flash flooding. * WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...Most of Northern and Central Nevada. * WHEN...From 11 AM PDT Tuesday morning until 9 PM PDT Tuesday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - The strongest showers and thunderstorms Tuesday will produce rainfall rates of around one inch per hour, resulting in the potential of flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

About

Wheeler Peak Campground occupies a dramatic setting at nearly 10,000 feet elevation in the shadow of Wheeler Peak, Nevada's second-highest summit. The 37-site campground serves as base camp for exploring Great Basin's alpine zone, where camping is otherwise prohibited. Sites feature paved parking spurs, picnic tables, and fire rings amid stands of Engelmann spruce and quaking aspen, with mule deer frequently browsing through camp. The campground provides direct access to some of the park's most sought-after trails. The Bristlecone Trail leads to an ancient grove where some trees have stood for over 4,000 years. The Alpine Lakes Loop climbs to Stella and Teresa lakes beneath permanent snowfields. The accessible Sky Islands Nature Trail offers a gentler 0.4-mile option. At night, Great Basin's exceptional dark skies reveal stars in ways few places in the lower 48 can match. The 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive climbs over half a vertical mile to reach the campground, with Mather Overlook providing sweeping views along the way. Neither vehicles nor trailers exceeding 24 feet are permitted on this road due to sharp curves and steep grades. Potable water is not available at this elevation; campers must bring their own supply.

Directions

From US Highway 6 & 50, turn south on Nevada State Highway 487 and travel 5 miles to Baker. In Baker turn west on Highway 488 and travel 5 miles to the park entrance. Follow Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive 12 miles to the campground at road's end.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $20

Vehicle

Max RV Length 24ft
Max Trailer Length 24ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Email GRBA_Interpretation@nps.gov
Phone +1 (775) 234-7331

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

Early winter in the Great Basin
The Great Basin has great light
Wheeler Peak Glacial Cirque at Sunset
Sage and clouds at the foot of the Snake Range

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