Death Valley National Park, California, CA, USA – Roadside Sign welcoming Travelers

(Press Release: November 23, 2020)

DEATH VALLEY, CA – The National Park Service (NPS) seeks feedback on proposed projects near Stovepipe Wells in Death Valley National Park. The NPS intends to increase and enhance recreation opportunities, improve vehicle and pedestrian safety, update utilities and infrastructure, rehabilitate historic buildings, and reduce impacts to park resources.

Stovepipe Wells in Death Valley National Park

The proposed modifications and upgrades are described at parkplanning.nps.gov/StovepipeWellsPlan.

They include:

Stovepipe Wells Campground: The tent and RV hookup areas would be redesigned to increase privacy, comfort, and accessibility; improvements include picnic tables, shade structures, and walking paths. A group site and second restroom would be added. However, the campground would not be expanded in area, so the number of campsites would be reduced.
Water and Sewage: Projects would address potable water supply and wastewater treatment at Stovepipe Wells and Emigrant Junction to meet regulatory requirements and provide for an anticipated increase in visitation.
Fuel Station: A second above-ground tank and additional fuel pumps would add ability to sell diesel fuel.
Night Sky Viewing to Replace Airstrip: Night sky viewing events in the park regularly attract over 250 people, and very few people use the airstrip at Stovepipe Wells. The park proposes changing the airstrip into a place where astronomical societies can set up and camp with their large telescopes, while providing an opportunity to experience the park’s spectacular dark skies. The Furnace Creek Airport, 18 miles away, would still be available for small planes.
Emigrant Junction: The stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s would be rehabilitated and interpreted for the public.
Mosaic Canyon: A vault toilet would be added, and the parking area redesigned at this popular trailhead. Depending on costs, public opinion, and resource impacts, the road could be paved.
CA-190: Address pedestrian safety in the Stovepipe Wells and Emigrant Junction areas.

The National Park Service would like to hear your thoughts on these concepts. Public comments need to be received by December 23, 2020 to be considered. Comments can be made online at parkplanning.nps.gov/StovepipeWellsPlan, or mailed to: Death Valley National Park, ATTN: Stovepipe Wells Plan, P.O. Box 579, Death Valley, CA 92328. Commenters should be aware that their entire comment – including personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While commenters can ask that their personal identifying information be withheld from public review, the National Park Service cannot guarantee that this will be possible.

–www.nps.gov/deva-