Sacramento Pass CampGround

Located 15 miles west of Baker, Nevada and the Great Basin National Park is Sacramento Pass BLM Campground. This free campground features very modern sites, a fishing pond (with fish), a restroom and trash collection.

Campground Features

Each site is equipped with a covered picnic table, grill, fire ring and a sandy square area to pop a tent and sleep under the stars.

There is approximately 8 sites at this campground. Most of the sites are pull throughs and can easily accommodate large rigs. The sites are fairly level and since I was the only camper upon arrival I tried out a few before settling on the site below. During my stay I noticed that the campground filled up each evening so if you want to set up for an extended stay I would try to arrive early for a better selection of sites.

Local Attraction

The best feature of this campground (besides being free) is the awesome views of Wheeler Peak. Considered the crown jewel of the Great Basin National Park, Wheeler peak rises from the desert sage plains to an impressive 13,159 feet above sea level. I found myself each evening reclining in my zero gravity chair staring at the mountain while watching a pair of Northern Harriers (hawks) glide low across the meadow.

With the park entrance and Visitor Center only 20 minutes away, Sacramento Pass is a perfect launching point for many daytime excursions into the park. While visiting the park don’t miss the 12 mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive which wiggles its way to and elevation of 10,000 feet. At the end of the drive is a parking area and several trailheads, including Glacier Trail, Wheeler Peak Summit trail and the Bristlecone Trail. The road provides incredible views of the mountain peaks and valley below. Also while in the park you can explore Lehman Caves, however due to COVID 19 the caverns were closed and I was not able to check them out.

Disadvantages

There are two disadvantages of this campground. First, it is very remote (which is also a positive). Located on US 50, labeled The Loneliest Road in America it is 20 miles to Baker which only has a couple of very small eateries and one gas station. Ely is the nearest town of any size but you can expect a good 50 minute drive to town. Once reaching Ely you will be treated to several dinning options, gas stations and groceries.

The second disadvantage is that there is absolutely no cell service. I have Verizon and ended driving to Ely to send an e-mail and make a phone call. Since I am a working nomad this caused me to shortening my stay as my job duties were calling.

If solitude, nature and a break from phones and technology is what you are looking for then this is an awesome place to spend a few nights and lose track of time. Just don’t forget the marshmallows!