Where to stay in Death Valley in the winter?

  • Stovepipe Wells Village. Located: Stovepipe Wells. Lodging, Food & Fuel. Open all Year. ...
  • The Oasis at Death Valley. The Inn at Death Valley. Located: Furnace Creek. ...
  • The Oasis at Death Valley. The Ranch at Death Valley. Located: Furnace Creek. ...
  • Panamint Springs Resort. Located: Panamint Springs. Lodging, Food & Fuel.




Winter is the "peak season" for Death Valley, and in 2026, the The Oasis at Death Valley (formerly Furnace Creek) remains the premier choice. It offers two distinct experiences: the Inn at Death Valley, a luxury 4-diamond historic hotel with a spring-fed pool, and the more family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley, which features a "town square" atmosphere and lower price points. For those seeking a more remote, rugged experience, Stovepipe Wells Village is an excellent mid-range option located near the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. If you prefer camping, the Furnace Creek Campground is the only one that takes reservations in the winter and is highly coveted due to its central location. For a "western" vibe on the outskirts, Panamint Springs Resort offers motels and cabins with stunning views of the Panamint Valley. In 2026, winter temperatures are perfect for hiking (typically 65°F–75°F), but nights can be near freezing, so if you are choosing a cabin or tent, ensure it has a reliable heating source or cold-rated sleeping gear.

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The park is open daily all year.

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During winter, average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 70s with overnight lows frequently dropping into the upper 30s. Those cooler conditions combine with clear, sunny days to make winter the perfect season to get explore Death Valley National Park.

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Lodging. Whether you are looking to stay in a luxury hotel or a simple tent cabin, Death Valley has a range of options available.

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SPRING. It is the most popular time to visit Death Valley. Besides warm and sunny days, the possibility of spring wildflowers is a big attraction. If the previous winter brought rain, the desert can put on an impressive floral display, usually peaking in late March to early April.

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It is permitted in some places within the park - find out more about the Backcountry Camping Rules. Death Valley is a large, remote place without cell phone service in most areas. Backcountry camping is a great option for those who prepare properly and follow Leave No Trace principles.

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Avoiding the Crowds Visitors tend to avoid the summer and crowd Death Valley on weekends and school holidays the rest of the year, especially in the spring. December and January are the quietest months (with the exception of Christmas week and Martin Luther King, Jr., Day weekend).

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Avoid hiking in the heat: Do not hike in the low elevations when temperatures are hot. The mountains are cooler in summer, but can have snow and ice in winter. Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer. If your car breaks down, stay with it until help comes.

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If you don't have car access, then the Bundu Bus will be the next cheapest option. The bus travels through Death Valley on its way from Las Vegas to Yosemite and the $89 one-way fare includes a guided tour of a portion of the park.

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The biggest benefit of visiting Zion in December is the lack of crowds. Fewer crowds mean less irritation and more peace during the day. Many of the wildlife will be more willing to be out and about this time of year when there aren't hundreds of people craning to see them.

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