20 Best Private Campsites Near Buttonwillow, CA, US 2026

Looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature? Look no further than Hipcamp's private campsites near Buttonwillow, California. With over 180 available options, there's a campsite for every type of adventurer. From the stunning Cuyama Badlands with 1681 reviews, to the expansive River Ridge Ranch -722 acres with 348 reviews, and the serene Ballard Walnut Grove with 291 reviews, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and showers, plus activities like swimming, hiking, and boating, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

100% (210) • 28 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Buttonwillow

Cuyama Badlands

1. Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4469)

36mi from Buttonwillow · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Campsite 3 & 4

2. Campsite 3 & 4

99%

(168)

41mi from Buttonwillow · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Every campsite has its own picnic table, fire pit with grill, a large trash can, and a kitchenette table, a rustic outdoor loo, and gorgeous 360º view. They are semi-secluded and spacious. There are many hiking trails near by, a vast riverbed to explore, and a quail guzzler to check out! The absolute best part is the night sky views of the Milky Way.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

10 Star Ranch

3. 10 Star Ranch

100%

(4)

20mi from Buttonwillow · 31 sites · Tents, RVs

A semi-rural area with the California aqueduct in the backyard. The city of Taft is about 8 miles west of this little oasis in the desert of Kern County. We are just 20 miles, or 24 minutes from the busy I-5 Freeway. Come unwind and enjoy the quiet nature or host a party. The sky is the limit! Bathroom facilities available with 1 shower. 35°07'21"N 119°22'31"W Activities close to 10 Star Ranch: .001 Miles. California Aqueduct fishing out your back door. 29 Miles. Wind Wolves Preserve, 16019 CA-166, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/windwolves 4 Miles. Moto X Racetracks. Honolulu Rd, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.taftracing.com/ 6 Miles. West Kern Oil Museum. 1168 Wood Street,Taft, California 93268 https://www.westkernoilmuseum.org/ 16 Miles. Buena Vista Golf Course. Mifflin Ln, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.golfbv.com/ 21 Miles. Buena Vista Lake. 13601 Ironbark Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://www.kerncounty.com/government/parks 22 Miles. Kern County Gun Club. 12450 Shotgun Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 http://www.kerncountygunclub.com/ 18 Miles. Skydive San Joaquin Valley Inc. 12112 Copus Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93313 http://skydivesanjoaquinvalley.com/

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$10

/ night

Looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature? Look no further than Hipcamp's private campsites near Buttonwillow, California. With over 180 available options, there's a campsite for every type of adventurer. From the stunning Cuyama Badlands with 1681 reviews, to the expansive River Ridge Ranch -722 acres with 348 reviews, and the serene Ballard Walnut Grove with 291 reviews, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and showers, plus activities like swimming, hiking, and boating, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

100% (210) • 28 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Buttonwillow

Cuyama Badlands

1. Cuyama Badlands

99%

(4469)

36mi from Buttonwillow · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to camp on the moon, this is it. Completely removed from civilization and surrounded by a barren nature that is alive with the subtle presence of the universe. Seasonally, Spring wildflowers burst across the landscape. Cave paintings of Chumash Indians at Painted Rock remind us of those who lived before us. **Read on for more details.** This is our home but we love to share our life in the outback. We believe it will give you a better appreciation of life's simpler side. That being said, and to maintain the balance here at home, we'd appreciate if you keep your dogs in your car until you get to your site. Our offerings include fresh air and sunshine, amazing night sky, endless views, and plenty of space and privacy to enjoy your moments in nature. You'll find our amenities and activities puposefully sparse here. Upon booking, there are about 5 miles of dirt road on the property that you are welcome to explore on foot or by bicycle. Rustic is the theme here. There is no shower, no wifi, and no electricity available, but you will enjoy your own private spigot and the cellular service is acceptable. For any sites located south of Ballinger Wash, your vehicle length is limited to 22' and no more than 4' overhang from the rear axle, so you don't get stuck in the crossing and block access for others. Towing services are 1-3 hours away. Our Songdog Camps are sparsely scattered atop a 200 foot mesa that looks west over a valley offering stunning desert sunsets and amazing stargazing. These UPPER SITES are NOT OHV friendly, but any of our canyon bottom sites are a great base for your riding adventures up in Ballinger Canyon OHV. We'll be happy to recommend a site for you. **Forest Service law enforcement is actively ticketing unplated OHV on Ballinger Canyon Road. Be sure to know and abide by the laws.** Our friendly cancellation policies vary between 24 hours for simple campsites and 72 hours for our Glamp sites and Group sites. Be sure to check the Google for distance to Cuyama Valley, and your dates for availability and site descriptions. Upon booking, you can look forward to an information packed email to help you make the very best of your trip! We look forward to seeing you!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Campsite 3 & 4

2. Campsite 3 & 4

99%

(168)

41mi from Buttonwillow · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Every campsite has its own picnic table, fire pit with grill, a large trash can, and a kitchenette table, a rustic outdoor loo, and gorgeous 360º view. They are semi-secluded and spacious. There are many hiking trails near by, a vast riverbed to explore, and a quail guzzler to check out! The absolute best part is the night sky views of the Milky Way.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

10 Star Ranch

3. 10 Star Ranch

100%

(4)

20mi from Buttonwillow · 31 sites · Tents, RVs

A semi-rural area with the California aqueduct in the backyard. The city of Taft is about 8 miles west of this little oasis in the desert of Kern County. We are just 20 miles, or 24 minutes from the busy I-5 Freeway. Come unwind and enjoy the quiet nature or host a party. The sky is the limit! Bathroom facilities available with 1 shower. 35°07'21"N 119°22'31"W Activities close to 10 Star Ranch: .001 Miles. California Aqueduct fishing out your back door. 29 Miles. Wind Wolves Preserve, 16019 CA-166, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://wildlandsconservancy.org/preserves/windwolves 4 Miles. Moto X Racetracks. Honolulu Rd, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.taftracing.com/ 6 Miles. West Kern Oil Museum. 1168 Wood Street,Taft, California 93268 https://www.westkernoilmuseum.org/ 16 Miles. Buena Vista Golf Course. Mifflin Ln, Taft, CA 93268 https://www.golfbv.com/ 21 Miles. Buena Vista Lake. 13601 Ironbark Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 https://www.kerncounty.com/government/parks 22 Miles. Kern County Gun Club. 12450 Shotgun Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311 http://www.kerncountygunclub.com/ 18 Miles. Skydive San Joaquin Valley Inc. 12112 Copus Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93313 http://skydivesanjoaquinvalley.com/

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$10

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

From my campsite looking south toward Maricopa.

L

Lesa

2 days ago

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at 10 Star Ranch

The open expanse of William's land is breathtaking with the mountains and rolling hills on all sides. There is lots of sagebrush, yes, but unusually there is also green lush growth this early spring. The neighbors are warm and generous as are the hosts. And the history of the land and ranch is rich and deep in American culture. I recommend this Hipcamp stay highly.

J

John

3 days ago

24 ft travel trailer

1 night at 10 Star Ranch

The site was what we expected, very quiet, no traffic noise. William was very helpful in advising where to park. We decided to stay a 2nd night because we liked it so much. William sent one of his employees by to check on us after we had arrived to see if we needed anything. We met our host the morning we were leaving and had a nice visit with him. We had a hard time finding this on Hip Camp because it had not been reserved much yet and didn't display on the search. We had to zoom in on a map to do an advanced search before being able to find it. Glad we did that as William's land was a great stay.

J

John

4 days ago

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to 10 Star Ranch

Great spot. We decided to add another night. Quiet and private

W

William

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Amazing place to camp, wow!! We arrived and were welcomed pleasantly and explained how to get to our camp. Easy directions and a beautiful terrain made navigating to our campsite a breeze. The sunsets, breathtaking. The camp site itself had everything you could imagine, plus some. We will definitely be back we this is in our backyard!

M

Mai

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Jenny, Jim, and Carol were incredible hosts! I had car issues upon arrival (totally independent of the ranch) and they made sure I got the help I needed and that my dog and I were comfortable and warm. I was so touched by the hospitality! It is clear they put a lot of care and love into the ranch, and want to share it with the world. The campsite was well maintained and spacious with plenty of spots to hitch a tent. We had potable water from our own spigot, a covered picnic bench, small fire ring, and lovely loungers to take it all in. The were other campers one site over and I didn’t hear them. I stayed at East #2 on top of the mesa and saw so many stars and then woke up to a beautiful view of the canyon. It took just over 2 hours to get there from LA so it’s perfect for a quick getaway. I will definitely be back!

S

Sharon

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

We had the best stay at Songdog Ranch's Pupdog cabin. The tranquility and quietness of the space was so enjoyable. We spent our days exploring the surrounding nature and hanging out on the deck taking in the sun. Our three dogs also loved it! The new smells and exciting animals kept were so fun for them. The host, Jen, was very accomodating and made our stay feel extra special. We will be back!

C

Clayton

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Beautiful scenery. The tank held heat pretty well through the night. Thank you to the gracious camp hosts, and I’d 100% recommend this site to any future guests.

N

Nathan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

Second time back at Songdog Ranch, and plan to come again. It is becoming a relaxing reliable getaway for me and my dog. She really enjoys getting to be off leash and wander around.

j

jared

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

This property was amazing to camp on and so beautiful. It was far more green than I was expecting which was a lovely surprise. The hosts were very responsive as well and easy to get a hold of when needed. I can’t recommend tho site enough!

C

CHARLES

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

SongDog is always beautiful. And the coyotes put up choruses all night long. The only drawback was the nine rowdy guys at the adjacent campsite whose extremely loud interactions continued until 1:30 am and often drowned out the songdogs.

K

Kate

January 2026

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

While it was a little tricky to find in the dark for our first visit, my dogs and I really enjoyed our stay at Frank’s site! The space is just beautiful, plenty of room between campsites and there are quite a few dirt roads to walk on the property which we really enjoyed. We have a self contained camper van so we’re very comfortable despite the cold nighttime temperatures in January - definitely plan for this if you come in the winter!! We met the host who was super gracious helping with giving directions to the site. There is potable water at the site which is great for refilling on the way to the desert, and the outhouse is cute and clean - so pleasant to have as an amenity! We will be back - this is a great nature filled spot to stop on the way to LA from the north for road trippers.

Jonathan

January 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

This is such a nice area with great hosts. I originally booked a different site but due to the rain, Jen was super kind and accommodating and offered a different site where my car wouldn’t get stuck. Franks site was perfect and even booked an additional night. I love camping when it’s raining and this site had a lot of room to work with to get out of the stormy wind. I had a bright full moon and really enjoyed how open it was

J

Jacqueline

January 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

This was our first hipcamp booking, and we were not disapointed. This was a true "glamping" experience with all the amenities of homesteading (electricity, running water, and an indoor bathroom). It was a great way to disconnect and still experience nature- all while falling asleep to the singing call of coyotes. There are some other options for those that wish to tent camp or RV camp on the property as well. Thank you to Jim & Jen for hosting- your property is beautiful! I hope to be back!

Michael

January 2026

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cuyama Badlands

"Fantastic experience at Cuyama Badlands! The views are gorgeous and the vibe is peaceful. Huge thanks to Jim and Jenn for being such amazing hosts. We especially loved the convenience of the camp store and grabbing coffee at the Buckhorn nearby. Highly recommend!" Listening to the Coyotes at night was an experience.

S

Stephen

January 2026

20 ft Class C

3 nights at Cuyama Badlands

Jen was very helpful to switch our site at our request at the last minute. The song dogs did their part at night until the rains came. Tremendous dispersed sites. We'll try others.

M

Melanie

December 2025

With pets

1 night at Cuyama Badlands

I stayed at the glamp tank with my dog. My stay was perfect. The converted water tank is super cute and unique. The site was clean, very private, and included firewood, chairs, and cookware. It was a windy night, but warmer than expected and I felt cozy without when needing the propane heater that was provided. I met Jen who was very friendly and helpful. I went for a nice long run in Ballinger Canyon in the morning, followed by a cold plunge in the tepid tub, before heading out.

N

Nathan

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I love Songdog Ranch and plan to return for another stay. I arrived after dark and couldn’t find my campsite, and Jim came out to guide me to my spot, which was much appreciated. Night temperatures got as low as 48 according to my watch, but still slept without my tents weather cover off so I could enjoy the stars. This would be a great spot for meteor showers (I counted 6 before falling asleep, probably the tail end of Geminid) and other dark sky events. My dog loved wandering around off leash. The shop has lots of things to pick up in case you forgot, and books and games to borrow. I grabbed some firewood, and it was super easy.

Jeff

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Loved tent camping here. Stars and the mesa were so beautiful! Host was super friendly and the site had everything we needed.

Vickie

December 2025

With pets

3 nights at Cuyama Badlands

I love backpacking and camping and I am used to sleeping in a tent. My pups love it too! This trip I splurged with Sondog's Glamptank. I have been a regular at Sondog since 2020 and this is my 3rd time in the Glamptank. I was getting away to make some progress on my book. I brought some decorations from home and made my 4 days there very festive. The environment at Songdog is inviting and Jim and Jen always deliver on making my stay special. Love this place! So much so that I call it my home away from home!