Note: I have a report that this site has grown up in weeds and is unusable.

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 West Cattle Guard Campsite, out in bottom 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 side road, so while it might get dust from a passing vehicle, it is pretty isolated and a good basecamp for exploring the National Monument.

Pack it in - Pack it out.

Link to map.

Getting to Camp

The Coal Valley West Road Cattle Guard 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 11.2 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.

At the bend, Coal Valley West Road continues straight into the bottom of Coal Valley. Continue 2.1 miles to a T intersection, on the left. Continue straight for another 7.6 miles to a fenceline with a cattle guard. The campsite is on the other side of the fence.