Eureka Dunes Campground (Primitive)
The Quick Take
Eureka Dunes is the kind of campground that earns its solitude. Getting here requires nearly forty miles on unpaved road in a high-clearance vehicle, and what you find at the end is almost absurdly rewarding: a tiny cluster of sites at the foot of California's tallest sand dunes, with no fees, no crowds, and no cell signal to interrupt the silence. The trade-off is total self-sufficiency -- there is no water, no toilets worth mentioning, and no safety net if something goes wrong. But on a clear night, with the dunes glowing under a carpet of stars and the distant hum of singing sand, you will understand why people make the drive. This is a campground for experienced desert campers who consider "remote" a feature, not a warning.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
7 sites, first-come first-served.
What You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. No electrical hookups.
Accessibility
Accessible restrooms available. Uneven gravel surfaces. No pavement. Unpaved Roads - 4WD/High clearance required
Rules to Know
- Fires:•Charcoal producing fires may only be made in NPS metal fire pits.
- Bear Safety:•Wildlife: Coyotes and ravens are scavengers - keep your campsite clean!
- Occupancy:There is a maximum limit of 4 pets per campsite and pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
Pro Tips
Bring at least two gallons of water per person per day and top off your fuel tank before leaving pavement -- the nearest gas station is a long, thirsty drive back. A full-size spare tire is not optional on Big Pine Road.
Time your visit for late October through early April when temperatures are manageable. Sunrise on the dunes is spectacular, and if conditions are right, you can hear the rare 'singing' or booming sound the sand makes as it shifts -- walk the steep face in the morning for the best chance.
Pack a shade structure even in winter -- the desert sun is relentless at midday. Bring all firewood with you (gathering is prohibited), and use a gas stove for cooking since charcoal fires are restricted to the few metal fire rings on site.
Photos
NPS Photo
NPS Photo
NPS PhotoGetting There
Directions
Off of CA190 at the junction for Scotty’s Castle road, travel north thirty-eight (38) miles and take a right on unpaved Big Pine road. Travel thirty-four (34) miles on Big Pine road and take a left on South Eureka Valley Road. Travel ten (10) miles south to Eureka Dune dry camp.
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