Upper Lehman Creek Campground

Overview

Upper Lehman Creek Campground sits around 7,500 feet, just three miles up the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. You’re tucked into a mixed forest beside lively Lehman Creek, which means cool shade, the sound of running water, and a more secluded feel than many park campgrounds. It’s unstaffed and low-key—exactly what you want if you’re here for quiet nights and big stars.

Campsites & Amenities

Expect paved parking spurs, picnic tables, and fire rings with grills at each site, plus clean vault toilets. There’s no potable water in the campground, so arrive fully stocked and skip washing in the creek. There are no hookups anywhere in the park, and showers aren’t available. Generators are allowed 8am–8pm, with quiet hours 8pm–8am. Pets must stay leashed in camp and on roads, and aren’t allowed on park trails or in the backcountry.

Location & What It’s Good For

The location is the win here: you’re minutes from the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, with big mountain-and-valley views and access to the Bristlecone/Glacier and Alpine Lakes trails near the top. Lehman Caves is about a 10-minute drive; tours require reservations. Nights are dark enough for serious stargazing, and ranger astronomy programs run at the Lehman Caves Visitor Center in summer.

RV Notes

Pads are paved but many sites are short or tight—fine for tents and smaller rigs, trickier for longer trailers. Double-check site length and driveway details before you book. There’s a dump station and water fill at the Lehman Caves Visitor Center, not in the campground itself.

Wildlife

Around camp and along the creek you may spot mule deer and plenty of small critters. The park does allow fishing with a Nevada license, though brushy, small streams can make it challenging; alpine lakes like Baker Lake are the more rewarding target if you’re up for a bigger hike.

Best Time to Visit

The campground runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through the end of September (weather permitting). Midweek stays are quieter and easier to reserve. Even in summer, evenings get chilly at this elevation—bring warm layers. Summer also lines up with cave tours and the park’s astronomy programs.

Need to Know

• Bring all drinking and cooking water; there’s no potable water on-site.
• Print or download your reservation—cell coverage is spotty.
• Fire restrictions can tighten in dry periods; sometimes only LPG stoves are allowed.
• Pets are allowed in camp and on paved roads only.
• Keep your food secured and follow Leave No Trace—this is a creekside, wildlife-friendly corridor.