Pros & cons
PROS
- Shady, well-spaced sites near a burbling creek
- Quick access to Baker Creek trailheads and superb dark-sky stargazing
CONS
- No potable water on-site
- Graded gravel access road can be dusty and tougher for big rigs
Overview
Set a few miles up Baker Creek Road, this 37-site campground sits in a pinyon–juniper forest with pockets of ponderosa, the creek close by, and views toward Baker Peak and Doso Doyabi. It feels tucked-away and quiet, yet you’re close to the park’s marquee sights. Nights are properly dark here—stargazing is a highlight.
Campsites & Layout
Expect a mix of tent and RV-friendly pads, plus a handful of tent‑only and walk‑in sites, including ADA options. Some sites are pull‑through. The upper loop (sites 9–14) does not allow RVs/trailers; elsewhere, rigs fit where signed (up to 50 ft). Sites are generally private and shaded.
Reservations, Season & Fees
All sites are reservable on a short booking window designed for last‑minute plans. The campground is unstaffed—have your confirmation downloaded in case cell service flakes. It’s open seasonally; check status before you go. The fee is about $20 per night, with discounts for Senior/Access pass holders.
Amenities & Rules
You’ll get picnic tables, fire rings with attached grills, and clean vault toilets. There is no potable water at the campground; plan to bring your own or fill up near the visitor center when available. Generators are allowed 8:00 am–8:00 pm, with quiet hours from 8:00 pm–8:00 am. Pets must be leashed (6 ft) and are restricted to roads and campgrounds—no park trails or backcountry. Access is via a graded gravel road that’s usually passable but can be dusty.
Things to Do Nearby
Trail access is the big win: the Baker Creek trail network, including the Baker Lakes Loop and Pole Canyon, starts right here or nearby. You’re also a short drive from Lehman Caves tours, the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, and the ancient bristlecone pines.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for wild turkeys and marmots around the creek corridor, plus plenty of birdlife. In warm months, be snake‑aware and watch your footing. Store food and scented items securely and keep a clean camp.
Best Time to Visit
Summer brings easy access and cooler temps than down in Baker, though July can be busy. Fall is fantastic for color in the creek drainage. For stars, any clear, moonless night is a treat here. If you’re booking tours or specific hikes, plan your stay around those fixed times and the campground’s quiet hours.
Good to Know
Cell service is hit‑or‑miss—download maps and your reservation ahead of time. If you’re in a big rig, study site photos and avoid the upper loop. Fire restrictions change; verify day‑of before lighting a campfire.
Where it is
38.9848, -114.2429Tips for Baker Creek Campground
- 01Bring all the drinking water you need; there’s no potable water on-site.
- 02Download your reservation and maps—cell service is spotty at best.
- 03Know the rules: generators 8 am–8 pm; quiet hours 8 pm–8 am.
- 04RVs and trailers should avoid the upper loop (sites 9–14).
- 05Pack layers—elevation is roughly 7,500–8,000 feet and nights run cool.
Amenities
Near Baker Creek Campground
All places →All trails →
0.6 mi awayBaker Lake LoopTwo alpine lakes, one big loop, and solitude for days.Challenging · 11.7 mi · 9 hr
0.6 mi awayBaker Meadows TrailAspens, meadows, and creekside singletrack on a mellow moderate loopModerate · 3.5 mi · 2 hr
0.6 mi awayTimber Creek TrailSteep, quiet loop to meadows and Pyramid Peak views from Baker CreekModerate · 5.3 mi · 3.3 hr
1.1 mi awayGrey Cliffs CampgroundQuiet tent-only nook beneath limestone cliffs with starry skiesCampground · Restroom
1.5 mi awayPole Canyon TrailQuiet loop with creek, meadows, and big Snake Valley viewsModerate · 7 mi · 3.7 hr
1.9 mi awayGreat Basin CafeOnly in-park cafe for solid breakfast, lunch, and shakesFood · Restaurant
1.9 mi awayLehman Orchard and AqueductHistoric orchard and hand‑dug aqueduct steps from the cave visitor centerExhibit · Parking
1.9 mi awayLehman CavesRanger-led marble cave with rare shields and dense formationsRestroom · Exhibit
