Nevada / White Pine County / Great Basin National Park

Wheeler Peak Campground

Closed — Closed for the winter season. The campground typically opens around Memorial Day and closes in late September after the first significant snowfall, weather dependent. Reservations available up to 30 days in advance during peak season.

About

Wheeler Peak Campground holds the distinction of being the highest-elevation campground in the entire National Park System at 9,886 feet above sea level. Perched in the shadow of Wheeler Peak and Doso Doyabi, two of Nevada's most striking alpine peaks, the campground is nestled among aspen groves and dense Engelmann spruce forests with alpine meadows nearby. The setting provides exceptional opportunities for stargazing, as the high elevation and remote location create remarkably dark skies. The campground serves as the perfect base camp for exploring Great Basin's alpine region, where backcountry camping is otherwise prohibited. Two of the park's premier hiking trails begin just outside the campground entrance: the Bristlecone Trail leads 1.5 miles to the Wheeler Peak Bristlecone Grove, home to ancient trees that have witnessed over a million sunsets, while the Alpine Lakes Loop Trail offers access to pristine alpine lakes. The accessible 0.4-mile Sky Island Nature Trail provides a gentler alternative. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive itself is a destination, climbing over 2,600 feet in 12 miles with spectacular overlooks. At this elevation, weather can be dynamic even in summer, with cold temperatures and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. The campground's remote alpine setting means mule deer, wild turkeys, and other wildlife are frequent visitors. While the campground is 30 minutes from the famous Lehman Caves, its high-elevation access to the park's alpine zone makes it an unforgettable experience for those seeking cooler temperatures and mountain scenery.

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. The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive begins just past the main entrance on the right and climbs 12 miles to the campground at 9,886 feet elevation.

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