Overview

There is one developed campground in Basin and Range National Monument (Mt. Irish Campground). Otherwise, there are no facilities of any kind, but primitive camping is legal everywhere along existing roads and trails, and there are a number of traditional campsites scattered throughout the area.

The Coal Valley South Campsite, out in the south end of Coal Valley, is traditionally used by sheep herders and has space for several trailers and RVs. For campers who like wide open spaces, grand scenery, and big starry nights, this is a good choice. Keep an eye out for pronghorn foraging in the valley.

This site is along a main road, so while it gets dust from the few passing vehicles, it is a good basecamp for exploring the National Monument.

Pack it in - Pack it out.

Link to map.

Getting to Camp

The Coal Valley South Campsite is located in the south-central of Basin and Range National Monument, about 2-1/2 hours northeast of Las Vegas.

From Las Vegas, drive north on Interstate-15 for 21 miles to Highway 93. Drive north on Highway 93 past the towns of Alamo and Ash Springs to Highway 318. Turn left onto Highway 318 and drive north for 9.4 miles to Mail Summit Road on the left.

Turn left onto Mail Summit Road and drive northwest 12.6 miles. The road climbs steeply over the crest of the Seaman Range, and winds down into the south end of Coal Valley. As the road runs north-northwest down into Coal Valley, it bends left to run west-northwest. About 1.4 miles past the bend, watch for an old road on the left. The area around the intersection is used for a campsite.