An arid valley in eastern California, Death Valley is one of the most impressive national parks on the planet. Home to breathtaking, unique landscapes and magnificent mountains – Death Valley is a thrilling place to visit and should be firmly on your bucket list.
Death Valley is known for being a land of extremes. It’s the hottest, driest and lowest-elevation national park. It’s famous for having the highest EVER recorded temperature in the world at 134 °F (or 56°C) back in 1936.
It is truly MDMA-zing and will absolutely blow your mind. It’s a weird and wild place on our planet that if you get the opportunity to visit during your lifetime, will knock your bloody socks off.
But, it is massive and knowing where to stay in Death Valley National Park is super important. The best area to stay will be completely dependent on YOU and what you want to do on your trip.
That’s why I’ve written this insider guide for the best areas and places to stay near Death Valley. So whether you’re looking to party all night long, see the coolest sights, or simply save a few bucks, you’ve come to the right place.
After reading this guide, you’ll be an expert on the areas of Death Valley and be ready to lock in your trip of a lifetime.
So, let’s jump into where to stay in Death Valley National Park, California, USA.
- Where to Stay in Death Valley
- Death Valley Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Death Valley
- Where to Sleep in Death Valley: Top 5 Areas!
- FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Death Valley
- What To Pack For Death Valley
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Death Valley
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Death Valley
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Death Valley.
Beautiful Cultural Home | Best Airbnb in Death Valley
If this is your first time staying in Death Valley, then you have to stay here! It’s right in the middle of DV and Las Vegas, so you have nature and the city just at your fingertips. The home is made for travelers; they have everything you need in the kitchen, from making coffee to a late-night dinner when all the cafes are closed.
You’ll love the Native American decor, and may even find yourself reading the stories the paintings interpret. This living space has one feature you can’t find anywhere else. – A patio with a rocking chair to sit on for sunset! It’s one of the most beautiful sunsets in the country.
Sin City Hostel | Best Hostel in Death Valley
Located at the heart of Las Vegas, this hostel is within walking distance of the Strip, downtown, and the city’s most famous clubs and casinos. It has comfortable beds, a large common room, hot showers, and washing machines. This is my recommendation for the best hostel in Death Valley.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest | Best Hotel in Death Valley
A great location and good-sized beds are what make this my pick for the best hotel in Death Valley. Located in Ridgecrest, this Death Valley hotel is ideally set for exploring the city and the area’s most famous tourist attractions. This hotel boasts an awesome swimming pool as well as a relaxing Jacuzzi.
Furnace Creek
If you’re visiting Death Valley National Park for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than Furnace Creek. Located within the park’s boundaries, Furnace Creek gives visitors easy access to the park’s main attractions, including Artist Drive, Dante’s View and the Devil’s Golf Course.
Las Vegas
Just two hours outside of Death Valley National Park is Las Vegas. Famous for its infamous party scene, Las Vegas – or Sin City – is where you can go to party all day, and all night long.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is also our pick for where to stay if you’re looking for nightlife. One of the most exciting cities in the world, Las Vegas is packed with colourful and lively nightclubs, as well as bustling bars, energetic casinos and plenty of late night fun. Whether you want to see a great show or dance until dawn, Las Vegas is the place to do it!
Lone Pine
Lone Pine is an outdoor adventurers dream. Nestled between Death Valley and Sequoia National Parks, this small California town offers curious wanderers easy access to some of the most incredible natural scenery in the world.
Ridgecrest
Ridgecrest, California is our recommendation for where to stay for families visiting Death Valley. One of the largest towns near the park, Ridgecrest is bursting with interesting activities and attractions that are perfect for travellers of all ages.
Located in eastern California, Death Valley National Park is an arid desert that is one of the hottest and most difficult environments on earth.
There’s plenty to see and do here for prepared and intrepid travellers from hiking historic trails and seeing spectacular views to exploring the nearby towns and villages and immersing yourself in a bit of California history.
Death Valley is one of the largest national parks in the United States. It covers nearly 14,000 square kilometers of land; which is nearly 50% more than the world-famous Yellowstone National Park.
There’s a good selection of places to stay in and around the park. In this post, I’ll take a look at the five best areas based on your interests and budget.
Starting with the park itself. Furnace Creek is a small town located within the boundaries of Death Valley. Boasting a very small population, this area is ideally located for exploring the park and is close to many of Death Valley’s top attractions.
Set to the west is Lone Pine. An awesome destination for adventure travellers, Lone Pine is perfect for hikers, bikers, and anyone who loves being outside.
Heading south from there you’ll arrive in Ridgecrest. One of the largest towns near the park, Ridgecrest is bursting with activities, attractions, and fun for the whole family.
And finally, on the eastern side of the park is Las Vegas. Ideal for party animals and cost-conscious backpackers, travel to Las Vegas to enjoy wild nights on the town with ample budget accommodation and food options to tie up the shenanigans.
Still not sure where to stay in Death Valley? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
The USA is blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.
Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99, and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!
You do the math. 😉
Buy the Pass!Where to Sleep in Death Valley: Top 5 Areas!
Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best places to stay in and near Death Valley. Each town and area is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the area that’s the best fit for you and your interests.
1. Furnace Creek – Where to stay when visiting Death Valley for the first time
If you’re visiting Death Valley National Park for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than Furnace Creek. Located within the park’s boundaries, Furnace Creek gives visitors easy access to the park’s main attractions, including Artist Drive, Dante’s View and the Devil’s Golf Course. Here you can enjoy all the perks of the park all the time by staying in a stunning and rustic lodge surrounded by nature.
Furnace Creek is also ideally located for exploring Death Valley National Park on foot. Many of the park’s most famous hiking trails start nearby. Pack your best adventure gear and enjoy an awesome day in the park by staying in quaint Furnace Creek.
Beautiful Cultural Home | Best Airbnb in Furnace Creek
If this is your first time staying in Death Valley, then you have to stay here! It’s right in the middle of DV and Las Vegas, so you have nature and the city just at your fingertips. The home is made for travelers; they have everything you need in the kitchen, from making coffee to a late-night dinner when all the cafes are closed.
You’ll love the Native American decor, and may even find yourself reading the stories the paintings interpret. This living space has one feature you can’t find anywhere else. – A patio with a rocking chair to sit on for sunset! It’s one of the most beautiful sunsets in the country.
Amargosa Opera House and Hotel | Best Budget Option in Furnace Creek
For a cheap place to stay in Death Valley National Park, you’re better off staying down the road at Death Valley Junction. At this hotel, you’re still only a short drive from the area’s best hikes, sights, and tourist attractions. The Amargosa is certainly basic in the amenities, however, it more than makes up for it with its dedication to the theme: a historic middle-of-nowhere opera house.
The Inn at Death Valley | Best Hotel in Furnace Creek
The Inn at Furnace Creek oozes contemporary Californian cool with its comfortable furniture and central location. It comes complete with a whole host of wellness facilities, including a golf course, swimming pool, sauna, and terrace. All of this combined makes this my pick for where to stay in Furnace Creek.
The Ranch at Death Valley | Best Hotel in Furnace Creek
This rustic ranch at Death Valley is a great place to stay if you’re looking to spend a little extra on the creature comforts. They have comfortable rooms outfitted with free wifi, a fridge, and a coffee maker. Guests can make use of the outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a relaxing and rejuvenating sauna.
Things to See and Do in Furnace Creek
- Dig into a delicious plate of food at The Corkscrew Saloon.
- Dive deep into history at the Harmony Borax Works.
- Feast your eyes on the spectacular vista from Aguereberry Point.
- Hike the Golden Canyon and take in the incredible views.
- Learn about the history of the area at the Furnace Creek visitor center.
- See the colourful hills of the Artists Palette.
- Take a scenic tour of Artist’s Drive.
- Visit Devil’s Golf Course but leave your clubs at home! This landscape is covered in thousands of crusted salt formations, horrible for a round of 18.
- Wander through the challenging Sidewinder Canyon.
2. Las Vegas – Cheap place to stay near Death Valley on a budget
Just two hours outside of Death Valley National Park is Las Vegas. Renowned for its infamous party scene, Las Vegas – or Sin City – is where you can go to party all day, and all night long.
But there’s more to Vegas than pools and parties. This Nevada city is also one of the best places to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Not only will you find a good selection of backpacker hostels and cheaper places to stay in Las Vegas, but the city is packed with inexpensive and interesting activities and attractions to keep you entertained and enthralled.
Comfy Room In The Best Location | Best Airbnb in Las Vegas
Las Vegas can be a bit pricy, but here is a place to stay when you’re on a budget, and hey, you may even win some money. This room in LV is cozy and tremendously clean; you won’t believe how low the nightly price is. If you are alone or with someone, the bed is definitely big enough. And oh, is it one of the most heavenly beds to crash out on! You’re most likely here to play at the Rock Canyon or the Strip, right? Either way– this place is centrally located to be at both locations in a matter of minutes
If you get up early, take the time to gaze at the canyons in the distance, or soak in the gorgeous outdoor swimming pool. You can also enjoy the outdoor BBQ, the pool table, or ping pong table after a long day of exploring.
Sin City Hostel | Best Hostel in Las Vegas
Located at the heart of Las Vegas, this hostel is within walking distance of the Strip, downtown, and the city’s most famous clubs and casinos. It has comfortable beds, a large common room, hot showers, and washing machines. This is my recommendation for the best hostel in Las Vegas for budget travellers.
El Cortez Hotel & Casino | Best Hotel in Las Vegas
This hotel is located in Las Vegas, just a few steps from Las Vegas City Hall and the Fremont Street Experience. It offers a variety of features, including a coffee bar, a hair salon and free wifi throughout. There’s also a great selection of dining options both on-site and nearby.
Downtown Grand an Ascend Collection Hotel | Best Hotel in Las Vegas
The Downtown Grand is centrally located in Las Vegas. Many of the city’s top attractions and landmarks are within walking distance. It is also close to shopping, sightseeing, entertainment, and nightlife. This hotel has an outdoor pool, a terrace, a bar, and free wifi.
Things to See and Do in Las Vegas
- Admire a colourful collection of signs at The Neon Museum.
- Catch the spectacular Bellagio fountain show.
- Enjoy the Fremont Street Experience, a five-block pedestrian-covered mall.
- Hike the Historic Railroad Trail
- Marvel at the Hoover Dam.
- See the colourful rock formations of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
- Learn about local wines at the Pahrump Valley Winery.
- Stop and smell the roses at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
- Walk along the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
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View on Osprey View on REI3. Las Vegas – Where to stay near Death Valley for nightlife
Las Vegas is also my pick for where to stay if you’re looking for nightlife. One of the most exciting cities in the world, Las Vegas is packed with awesome stuff to do from colourful and lively nightclubs to bustling bars, energetic casinos, and plenty of late-night fun. Whether you want to see a great show or dance until dawn, Las Vegas is the place to be!
Travellers who love to eat will also love Las Vegas. Dotting the Strip and the streets of Vegas are a fantastic selection of restaurants offering incredible cuisines from around the world. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll be able to find it in Las Vegas.
Renovated Apartment Near Strip | Best Airbnb in Las Vegas
Right off Freemont and the Strip, you can have it all. Location, comfort, hospitality, and a reasonable price! You may be one who loves the balance between party and outdoors. If that’s you, then this is the perfect Airbnb apartment in Las Vegas for you!
It’s right on the strip but heads right, and you’ll hit the springs and canyons in no time. Whether you’re solo traveling or with friends, the home has a pull-out queen size with plenty of room if you need to have a sleepover! It’s a smaller apartment but does the job and even has a full-on kitchen to cook if you wish to eat a bit healthier than what most of the strip offers, besides the really fancy restaurants, those are nice.
Hostel Cat | Best Hostel in Las Vegas
If you’re going to stay in Vegas, you might as well stay in the most lively and vibrant district. This fantastic hostel is comfortable and clean. It has a super social common area and a yoga/weight room for guests. They offer free wifi, free bedding, free coffee and tea, and more!
The Carriage House | Best Hotel in Las Vegas
The Carriage House is in a fantastic location with bars, clubs, and restaurants right at your front door. It has large rooms with modern décor and a myriad of contemporary amenities. There’s also a Jacuzzi, a pool, a spa, and a golf course on-site.
Platinum Hotel and Spa | Best Hotel in Las Vegas
The Platinum Hotel and Spa is my pick for where to stay in Las Vegas. It is located at the heart of the city and is close to all of Las Vegas’ top attractions. This hotel has a fantastic bar, a modern gym, and a stunning swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in Las Vegas
- Take flight in a Las Vegas Hot Air Balloon ride.
- Dive deep into the history of organized crime at The Mob Museum.
- Eat incredible Mexican fare at Juan’s Flaming Fajitas & Cantina.
- Get your heart racing at the Adventuredome Theme Park.
- Explore the impressive rock formations of the Seven Magic Mountains.
- See 2,000-plus aquatic animals, including sharks, turtles, and golden crocodiles at Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay.
- See priceless works of art at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.
4. Lone Pine – Coolest place to stay around Death Valley
Lone Pine is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. Nestled between Death Valley and Sequoia National Park, this small California town offers curious wanderers easy access to some of the most incredible natural scenery and amazing hiking in California. From lush landscapes and verdant forests to towering peaks and grand sequoias, you won’t believe your eyes while you’re in Lone Pine, which is why it’s my pick for the coolest places to stay near Death Valley.
The town itself is rustic and charming. It boasts a rich history and has been used as a setting for western films since the early-1920s. Movie buffs won’t want to miss the chance to see one-of-a-kind artefacts and memorabilia at the Museum of Western Film History.
Mt Whitney View Home | Best Airbnb in Lone Pine
A beautiful little hideaway with some of the most spectacular uninterrupted views of Mt Whitney and the Sierra Nevada range. It’s perfect for hiking and exploration in the area as well as a suitable driving distance from Death Valley National Park. The host prides herself on having upstanding cleanliness, and between the A/C, outdoor BBQ grill, and mountain-viewing porch, you’ll have little reason to want to leave.
Whitney Portal Hostel and Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Lone Pine
Located in Lone Pines, this hostel is a great base if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay near Death Valley National Park. It is close to the town’s top attractions, and the Museum of Western Film History is just a 10-minute walk away. This Death Valley hotel has 21 rooms, a gift shop, and a swimming pool.
Comfort Inn Lone Pine | Best Hotel in Lone Pine
This is my choice of where to stay in Lone Pine. This charming three-star hotel is an ideal base for exploring the region. It provides easy access to a myriad of outdoor activities, including hiking, sandboarding in the Mesquite sand dunes, and fishing. It has large, spacious, and clean rooms, and boasts wonderful views.
Historic Dow Hotel | Best Hotel in Lone Pine
The Historic Dow Hotel is a quaint property located in Lone Pine. It is close to well-known attractions and landmarks, including Alabama Hills and other scenic spots. This hotel has 8 comfortable rooms, free wifi, and a delightful on-site restaurant.
Things to See and Do in Lone Pine
- Browse a collection of memorabilia at the Museum of Western Film History.
- Dig into great Chinese food at Margie’s Merry-Go-Round.
- Explore the Inyo National Forest.
- Try sandboarding at the Mesquite Flat sand dunes.
- Hike a portion of the Mount Whitney Trail.
- Marvel at the magnificent sights in Sequoia National Park.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the view from Lone Pine Creek.
- See the beautiful rock formation of the Alabama Hills.
- Trek the Mobius Arch Loop Trailhead.
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Grab an eSIM!5. Ridgecrest – Best place to stay when visiting Death Valley with the family
Ridgecrest, California is my recommendation for where to stay for families visiting Death Valley. One of the largest towns near the park, Ridgecrest is bursting with interesting activities and attractions that are perfect for travellers of all ages.
A great base for getting back to nature, Ridgecrest is surrounded by outdoor adventures. Drive in almost any direction and you’ll find yourself staring at astounding landscapes, including Sequoia National Park and Red Rock Canyon State Park. From your home away from home in Ridgecrest, your family can enjoy hiking, biking, and wilderness adventures.
Keen to visit Los Angeles too? Well, you’re in luck! Ridgecrest is located just two hours outside of the city on angels, making it a fun and relatively easy day trip.
Huge Family Home | Best Airbnb in Ridgecrest
With a 90-degree view of the mountains, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t wanna stay at his home with the family. It’s centrally located in a small, cute, and peaceful neighborhood, with a short distance to the markets. You can enjoy having the whole place to yourselves, watch movies while eating popcorn and feel free to BBQ outside where you can dine under the stars.
It’s super spacious with enough sleeping space for 7. You can reach the National parks within 3 hours. There are also loads of good books to read if you wanna get cozy next to the fireplace on those chilly nights and boy, does it get cold.
A Nights Inn | Best Budget Option in Ridgecrest
This colourful and charming hotel has easy access to Ridgecrest’s top attractions, including the Maturango Museum. Comprised of 18 comfortable rooms, this hotel is well equipped to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay. This hotel has free wifi, a 24-hour reception, and very helpful, multilingual staff.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest | Best Hotel in Ridgecrest
A great location and good-sized beds are what make this hotel my pick for where to stay in Ridgecrest. It is ideally set for exploring the city and is surrounded by the area’s most famous tourist attractions. This hotel boasts an awesome swimming pool as well as a relaxing Jacuzzi.
Quality Inn Near China Lake Naval Station | Best Hotel in Ridgecrest
An excellent location and well-equipped rooms make this hotel a great choice in Ridgecrest. Guests can enjoy modern facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a business centre, and free wifi. Each room comes complete with a refrigerator, hairdryer, and cable/satellite channels.
Things to See and Do in Ridgecrest
- Browse the exhibits and displays on the history of the Mojave desert at the Maturango Museum.
- Climb the Rademacher Hills.
- Eat amazing French food at Mon Reve.
- Explore Petroglyph Park in central Ridgecrest.
- See missiles and weaponry from the 20th century at the US Naval Museum of Armament & Technology.
- See the rock paintings in Little Petroglyph Canyon.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Death Valley
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Death Valley and where to stay.
What To Pack For Death Valley
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Death Valley
It definitely pays to prepare. That’s why sorting good travel insurance before you start your trip is always a good idea.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Death Valley
Death Valley National Park is one of the most amazing places on earth. Its three million acres are home to rich wilderness and incredible landscapes that will amaze and inspire awe in any visitor.
In this post, I’ve highlighted the five best places around Death Valley to stay based on interest and budget. If you’re still confused about where to stay, here’s a quick recap of my favourites.
Sin City Hostel in Las Vegas is my favourite option for budget accommodations. Located on the Strip, this hostel is close to clubs, restaurants, and Sin City’s most famous attractions.
Another great option is the Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest. Ideally located for exploring Death Valley, this hotel has great amenities and comfortable beds.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around California.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in California instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
