The best desert camping near California City

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Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to camp near California City, California and explore the desert terrain? We've got you covered with over 180 available options specifically tailored to your preference. Whether you're looking for a rustic desert camping experience or a more comfortable stay, there's something for everyone. Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Death Valley Stargazing Camp (171 reviews), and Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews). With popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly areas, and campfire pits, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping trip. Plus, if you're into off-roading (OHV), snow sports, or boating, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. The average price per night is $33, but we also have options as low as $5. Start planning your desert camping getaway today!

94% (691)

Top-rated campgrounds

We are an operating ostrich ranch.

1. Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%
(153)
47mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Hughes, CA
Run by three generations, our ranch has been in our family for more than 70 years. We opened our doors to the public in 2014 to help support feeding our animals, bred and rescued, after the Powerhouse Fire almost burned us out. We’ve survived a county quarantine(2018-2019), the COVID Lockdowns (2021-2022), the Lake Fire (2020), and the Hurricane Kay burn scar debris flow and flood (9/11/22), depending on hard work and strong family and community bonds. In addition to camping and educational tours, we host private and community events, grow and sell produce and eggs, hatch and sell chicks, rescue ratites, and support the local bee population (which gives us RAW honey to sell), and are working to open a private U-pick-by-appointment orchard. We are all animal lovers, and conservationists, and try to do our part to ensure our children inherit a healthy and viable world. This is our home where we live, work, love, and play. We enjoy sharing our space with visitors who we hope learn about ostrich and make some great memories.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
The Hilltop Getaway

2. The Hilltop Getaway

99%
(126)
36mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Lake Los Angeles, CA
Welcome to The Hilltop Getaway! One of the coziest glamping spots near the Alpine Butte, Palmdale with Joshua Tree landscape just an hour from LA. The amazing 360 view from the jumbo rocks mountains on valley with Joshua Trees will make your memories unforgettable.  We also have a great landscape for your spectacular photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, refresh and recharge yourself, you found the place! While our site is private and secluded, it is close to most stores you might need. Palmdale is a 10-minute drive and has a Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Ross, restaurants, fast foods, banks, and more. Additionally, you can visit a lot of unique places just few minutes from us like Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Four Aces Movie Ranch, Movie Set Diner, Club Ed Movie Set, El Mirage Dry Lake, Kill Bill Church, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, Blackbird Airpark, Dry Town Water Park On our space you'll find 1. Bar/Kitchen area offers a four-burner gas grill with one side burner, kitchen table, sink with foot water pump, bar counter with four chairs on the bar deck; 2. Classic wood picnic table 3. Fire pit with wood chairs and bench for lounging 4. Hammock for relaxing and stargazing 5. Toilet/Shower cabin. Thetford Porta Potti flush toilet, sink with foot water pump, mirror, Eccotemp hot shower We provide towels and soap 6. Cowboy Pool 8ft Open seasonally May - Oct 7. The Geo Dome Tent 23ft (7M) is equipped with everything for a comfortable glamping experience Geo Dome: - Queen bed with memory-foam mattress and bedding - Two Convertable Tri-Fold Sofa Beds - Twin Tufted Back Convertible Sofa - Foldable Camping Cot - Hammock Chair Swing - Dining Set - Nightstands - Kitchen Island with kitchen utensils, pots, tableware - Portable Power Station EcoFlow River Mini for charging and power devices - Propane Portable Heater, indoor-safe (Propane gas is include) - Solar lights - Fresh towel-Fresh linen- Books games for entertainment - fire extinguisher, first aid kit, etc Please note - water in the tank is not drinkable and has a distinct taste Please plan for a “leave no trace” style camping and to take your trash with you upon check out
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$200
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

6. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
46mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

12. Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%
(76)
39mi from California City · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Elizabeth Lake, CA
Discover Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat, a premier camping, overlanding, and RV destination nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Our quaint and peaceful campsite offers a tranquil escape under the expansive celestial canopy, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and RV travelers. Nearby Attractions: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve (4 mi): Stunning wildflowers and trails. Lake Hughes (10 mi): Fishing, hiking, scenic views. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park (12 mi): Iconic Joshua Trees. Campsite Features: Our five spacious campsites each include a solar lamp, space for tents or RVs (Campervans, Trucks, Class B RVs), and access to a shared outhouse. Discover Local Flora and Fauna: During daylight, soak in the beauty of the Mojave Desert's natural landscape. Watch out for the local wildlife like quail, roadrunners, and jackrabbits. As night cloaks the desert, you're presented with a mesmerizing spectacle of a starlit sky, making it a dream location for stargazers. During the spring you will be immersed in a sea of wildflowers.Unique Photo Opportunity: Capture memories at our whimsical 'Portal to Nowhere'—a freestanding doorframe set against the desert backdrop. Amenities & Tips: Please note, our amenities are basic to preserve the authentic charm of the surroundings. There no fire pits on site, and we encourage campers to bring along any additional necessities, including extra lighting, for their comfort. We do have a shared outhouse. Stargazing Highlight: Magic Portal sits within a designated dark sky zone, one of the closest to Los Angeles. Experience unmatched celestial views nightly. Reserve your adventure at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat today!
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$34
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

16. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(43)
44mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weldon, CA
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

17. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
25mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Having my morning coffee

19. Joshua Tree Ranch Los Angeles

86%
(168)
39mi from California City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Hughes, CA
This valley was inhabited by the Kitanemuk tribe for thousands of years. They would live here in the winter, and spend the summers hunting and gathering pine nuts and acorns up in the Tehachapi and San Gabriel mountains. This region is called the Antelope Valley because there used to be antelope-looking creatures called pronghorns.My first trip out here was to watch the Blood Wolf Moon lunar eclipse of 2019. It didn't disappoint! This is the spot to come look at the stars, howl at the moon, eat jerky, draw weird cactus trees in your sketch book, whatever!Learn more about this land:Joshua trees 50 miles closer to LA than the Joshua Tree National Park!This is 2.5 acres of protected Joshua Tree lands in the Antelope Valley north of LA, between the snowy Tehachapi Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains. My first time out there I saw BOTH ENDS of a rainbow in front of the snowy Tehachapis!! Super dark skies, and a million stars at night. You'll probably see the Milky Way! It does get breezy at night, so dress appropriately.It feels like the wild west out here, and that's the main appeal--no rules, nobody watching. Think long dirt roads, tumbleweeds, bones, and maybe some old bullet shells (there's no shooting allowed on the property anymore). This is not a state-maintained, paved, manicured operation--it's the edge of the desert wilderness. Please respect the property and clean up after yourself!This is for people who are comfortable exploring beyond a concrete slab with electricity and janitor-cleaned restrooms. There are no designated sites, so pick whatever looks good to you. We often have multiple parties at once, so feel free to spread out.This land used to be the domain of the Ketanemuk tribe, which I think means People From The East. In the summer they would go up and hunt and get pine nuts in the Tehachapi Mountains, and acorns from the oak trees in the San Gabriels.The property itself is along a dirt road called Avenue C. It's about a 20 minute drive from the town of Neenach (pronounced Nee-nack), where there's a general store and a cafe. They make a great breakfast burrito. It's also a few minutes from the State Poppy Reserve, which blooms in the spring with miles of California poppies.If you have a larger group or event in mind, get in touch! We can figure out how to accommodate you.
Pets
from 
$28
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to camp near California City, California and explore the desert terrain? We've got you covered with over 180 available options specifically tailored to your preference. Whether you're looking for a rustic desert camping experience or a more comfortable stay, there's something for everyone. Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Death Valley Stargazing Camp (171 reviews), and Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews). With popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly areas, and campfire pits, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping trip. Plus, if you're into off-roading (OHV), snow sports, or boating, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. The average price per night is $33, but we also have options as low as $5. Start planning your desert camping getaway today!

94% (691)

Top-rated campgrounds

We are an operating ostrich ranch.

1. Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%
(153)
47mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Hughes, CA
Run by three generations, our ranch has been in our family for more than 70 years. We opened our doors to the public in 2014 to help support feeding our animals, bred and rescued, after the Powerhouse Fire almost burned us out. We’ve survived a county quarantine(2018-2019), the COVID Lockdowns (2021-2022), the Lake Fire (2020), and the Hurricane Kay burn scar debris flow and flood (9/11/22), depending on hard work and strong family and community bonds. In addition to camping and educational tours, we host private and community events, grow and sell produce and eggs, hatch and sell chicks, rescue ratites, and support the local bee population (which gives us RAW honey to sell), and are working to open a private U-pick-by-appointment orchard. We are all animal lovers, and conservationists, and try to do our part to ensure our children inherit a healthy and viable world. This is our home where we live, work, love, and play. We enjoy sharing our space with visitors who we hope learn about ostrich and make some great memories.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
The Hilltop Getaway

2. The Hilltop Getaway

99%
(126)
36mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Lake Los Angeles, CA
Welcome to The Hilltop Getaway! One of the coziest glamping spots near the Alpine Butte, Palmdale with Joshua Tree landscape just an hour from LA. The amazing 360 view from the jumbo rocks mountains on valley with Joshua Trees will make your memories unforgettable.  We also have a great landscape for your spectacular photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, refresh and recharge yourself, you found the place! While our site is private and secluded, it is close to most stores you might need. Palmdale is a 10-minute drive and has a Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Ross, restaurants, fast foods, banks, and more. Additionally, you can visit a lot of unique places just few minutes from us like Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Four Aces Movie Ranch, Movie Set Diner, Club Ed Movie Set, El Mirage Dry Lake, Kill Bill Church, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, Blackbird Airpark, Dry Town Water Park On our space you'll find 1. Bar/Kitchen area offers a four-burner gas grill with one side burner, kitchen table, sink with foot water pump, bar counter with four chairs on the bar deck; 2. Classic wood picnic table 3. Fire pit with wood chairs and bench for lounging 4. Hammock for relaxing and stargazing 5. Toilet/Shower cabin. Thetford Porta Potti flush toilet, sink with foot water pump, mirror, Eccotemp hot shower We provide towels and soap 6. Cowboy Pool 8ft Open seasonally May - Oct 7. The Geo Dome Tent 23ft (7M) is equipped with everything for a comfortable glamping experience Geo Dome: - Queen bed with memory-foam mattress and bedding - Two Convertable Tri-Fold Sofa Beds - Twin Tufted Back Convertible Sofa - Foldable Camping Cot - Hammock Chair Swing - Dining Set - Nightstands - Kitchen Island with kitchen utensils, pots, tableware - Portable Power Station EcoFlow River Mini for charging and power devices - Propane Portable Heater, indoor-safe (Propane gas is include) - Solar lights - Fresh towel-Fresh linen- Books games for entertainment - fire extinguisher, first aid kit, etc Please note - water in the tank is not drinkable and has a distinct taste Please plan for a “leave no trace” style camping and to take your trash with you upon check out
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$200
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

6. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
46mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

12. Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%
(76)
39mi from California City · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Elizabeth Lake, CA
Discover Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat, a premier camping, overlanding, and RV destination nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Our quaint and peaceful campsite offers a tranquil escape under the expansive celestial canopy, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and RV travelers. Nearby Attractions: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve (4 mi): Stunning wildflowers and trails. Lake Hughes (10 mi): Fishing, hiking, scenic views. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park (12 mi): Iconic Joshua Trees. Campsite Features: Our five spacious campsites each include a solar lamp, space for tents or RVs (Campervans, Trucks, Class B RVs), and access to a shared outhouse. Discover Local Flora and Fauna: During daylight, soak in the beauty of the Mojave Desert's natural landscape. Watch out for the local wildlife like quail, roadrunners, and jackrabbits. As night cloaks the desert, you're presented with a mesmerizing spectacle of a starlit sky, making it a dream location for stargazers. During the spring you will be immersed in a sea of wildflowers.Unique Photo Opportunity: Capture memories at our whimsical 'Portal to Nowhere'—a freestanding doorframe set against the desert backdrop. Amenities & Tips: Please note, our amenities are basic to preserve the authentic charm of the surroundings. There no fire pits on site, and we encourage campers to bring along any additional necessities, including extra lighting, for their comfort. We do have a shared outhouse. Stargazing Highlight: Magic Portal sits within a designated dark sky zone, one of the closest to Los Angeles. Experience unmatched celestial views nightly. Reserve your adventure at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat today!
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$34
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

16. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(43)
44mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weldon, CA
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

17. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
25mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Having my morning coffee

19. Joshua Tree Ranch Los Angeles

86%
(168)
39mi from California City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Hughes, CA
This valley was inhabited by the Kitanemuk tribe for thousands of years. They would live here in the winter, and spend the summers hunting and gathering pine nuts and acorns up in the Tehachapi and San Gabriel mountains. This region is called the Antelope Valley because there used to be antelope-looking creatures called pronghorns.My first trip out here was to watch the Blood Wolf Moon lunar eclipse of 2019. It didn't disappoint! This is the spot to come look at the stars, howl at the moon, eat jerky, draw weird cactus trees in your sketch book, whatever!Learn more about this land:Joshua trees 50 miles closer to LA than the Joshua Tree National Park!This is 2.5 acres of protected Joshua Tree lands in the Antelope Valley north of LA, between the snowy Tehachapi Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains. My first time out there I saw BOTH ENDS of a rainbow in front of the snowy Tehachapis!! Super dark skies, and a million stars at night. You'll probably see the Milky Way! It does get breezy at night, so dress appropriately.It feels like the wild west out here, and that's the main appeal--no rules, nobody watching. Think long dirt roads, tumbleweeds, bones, and maybe some old bullet shells (there's no shooting allowed on the property anymore). This is not a state-maintained, paved, manicured operation--it's the edge of the desert wilderness. Please respect the property and clean up after yourself!This is for people who are comfortable exploring beyond a concrete slab with electricity and janitor-cleaned restrooms. There are no designated sites, so pick whatever looks good to you. We often have multiple parties at once, so feel free to spread out.This land used to be the domain of the Ketanemuk tribe, which I think means People From The East. In the summer they would go up and hunt and get pine nuts in the Tehachapi Mountains, and acorns from the oak trees in the San Gabriels.The property itself is along a dirt road called Avenue C. It's about a 20 minute drive from the town of Neenach (pronounced Nee-nack), where there's a general store and a cafe. They make a great breakfast burrito. It's also a few minutes from the State Poppy Reserve, which blooms in the spring with miles of California poppies.If you have a larger group or event in mind, get in touch! We can figure out how to accommodate you.
Pets
from 
$28
 / night

Camper favorites near California City

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near California City

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field