windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Having never been there I'd like to spend a couple of days in March photographing Death Valley. My research thus far seems to indicate very limited accommodations in the area. Not looking for luxury, just a clean and convenient base from which to work. Also would appreciate any suggestions from members who have photographed the park previously, preferably in that season. Thanks in advance for any pertinent information on either that you feel might be helpful

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

google is your friend.
enter
photographing death valley
accommodations in death valley

You'll get more than you can imagine.
--Bob

Nalu Loc: Southern Arizona

Stove pipe wells. Mid priced. Photography. Everywhere. You may want to check w park about best time for wild flowers. Make reservation now.

Gerald Watson

You will enjoy the trip. When we went there it was 113 degrees in the shade, it was summer. You will be at the lowest part of the 48 states an will
see the highest peak in the states. In the spring it should be not so hot. You will also see what caused the deserts of the west as the storms and coolness cannot
get over the mountains.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Thanks, I'll check that out.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

The last time I was in DV I was coming from Las Vegas and stayed at the Amargosa Opera House and Hotel. It's outside the park on the east side and worked well for what I was doing. But it's VERY spartan and rustic. I recall about $75 per night.
Though it's pretty far off the beaten path, I've always wanted to go to and photograph the Racetrack, but haven't gotten there yet!
Have a great stay in our UHH most hated state of CA!!!
SS

Photocraig

Given the winder we're having, I expect that March will be a few months too early for wildflowers. Last year's bloom was by all reports fantastic. Checking with park and Mr. Google is the best answer.

Nalu Loc: Southern Arizona

Considering the precip we are getting this may be one of the best wildflower season in recent years. So it may be tough to get reservations. Don't wait.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Thank you!

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

That's good to know. Need to get on it.

Wanderer2 Loc: Colorado Rocky Mountains

Furnace Creek Inn and Furnace creek Ranch - expensive for what you get and the Inn is totally out of reach for many. The Ranch does have a couple of restaurants. But, they are centrally located in the heart of the Valley and make it easier to get to many locations. The best, or at least one of the best, locations for wildflowers is usually about 25 miles south of Furnace Creek on Badwater Road.

Stove Pipe Wells, somewhat less expensive, further away from wildflower locations, at least in my experience but closer to the Racetrack, Ubehebe Crater, and Scotty's Castle.

Beatty, NV - much more economical but also much further away.

There has been a casino/hotel outside the park a few miles east of the Opera House that is very reasonably price, can't recall the name and it's possible they're out of business (haven't been down that way in several years).

I've been to DV every winter or spring for 32 years and the info above is based on that experience. It's exciting to hear that current conditions indicate the possibility of a good wildflower year again - last year was the best in something like 10 years. It's amazing to see that usually bare terrain looking like big meadows of yellow flowers! I'll be there the second week of March again this year. Btw, if you have, or have access to a RV that's the least expensive way to stay in DV (that's what I do). There are some rv parks around Furnace Creek and one at Stovepipe but most don't have hookups. Have a great trip. DV is a really special, unique place.

Croce Loc: Earth

If you go to the racetrack, pair up with someone else with a good solid vehicle. Racetrack is not patrolled and very light traffic.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Thank you - very helpful - lots to check out here.

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

Sounds like a sound suggestion. Thanks!

Jrhoffman75 Loc: Conway, New Hampshire

Also, if heading to the Racetrack, check that your spare tire is ready for use. Sharp rocks on the road.