Lake Camping Near California City, California, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking for a camping experience near California City, California with a lake? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 235 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like River Ridge Ranch (348 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. And if you're looking for adventure, you can go horseback riding, explore historic sites, or go off-roading (OHV). So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (169)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping experience near California City, California with a lake? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 235 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like River Ridge Ranch (348 reviews), Spirit Walk - Private Retreat (202 reviews), and Arber-Moore's Ranch (158 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water, you'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. And if you're looking for adventure, you can go horseback riding, explore historic sites, or go off-roading (OHV). So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (169)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(24)

42mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Weldon, CA

Diamond Acres is a quiet, secluded camp in the Kern River Valley just minutes from Lake Isabella, the mighty Kern River, and Southern Sierras! We offer glamping sites (tent or trailer) with hot showers and flushing toilets! Come enjoy the solitude and stars. Our camp overlooks miles of rolling hills with no houses in view! Skip the crowded campgrounds and glamp comfortably while only being 5 minutes from Lake Isabella! Take a short walk to the top of the property and enjoy some of the best sunsets you've ever seen! We are close to the Kern River, OHV trails, hot springs, hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, paragliding, and so much more!

2. 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!

3. Double Triangle Ranch

98%

(58)

43mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Weldon, CA

Once settled by Tubatulabel and Shoshoni tribes, this area is rich with reminders of their habitation. Grinding rocks near Tipi camp are one of those. When gold was discovered in the Kern River Valley, most of the native tribes were displaced but their decendents here in the KRV keep the history alive with language studies and cultural events.

4. Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Bodfish, CA

Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it! Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space. The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.

5. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent · Silver Lakes, CA

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

6. Isabella Camping

100%

(1)

46mi from California City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Mountain Mesa, CA

NEW PROPERTY! More photos are coming soon!! Lake view with easy access, Tent & Camp; RV camping , electric & water hook ups , laundry mat , restrooms and cold showers. Property is open access off the highway, so there will be slight noise. There are 8 sites in the front with a lake view, and 4 in the back that don't. Total of 12 campsites. There are full hook-ups with water, electric (30 amp), and sewer. The sites are dirt/gravel but not rough terrain. The sites are completely level, so you can park and go. The lake is just on the other side of the highway. You can access the lake by walking, it's right across the street. Less than an 1/8th of a mile is drive in access to the lake. You are welcome to haul in your boat to the property as well, happy to give you boat parking.

7. 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)

8. Closest Vacay Cabin to the Lake

100%

(2)

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Lake Isabella, CA

Discover serene "Little Isabella," a 550 sq. ft. cabin with a unique layout just moments from the lake – a 3-min drive or a leisurely 15-min walk. If you ever wanted to stay in a tiny house this is very similar. Enjoy the excellent location on a paved road very close to fishing and boat docks. A cozy loft with a charming sleep space for four or more. Play crib available upon request. We offer a petite basic kitchen, complete with a fridge, stove, microwave, and scenic sink overlooking the lake. A natural well provides chemical-free water for refreshing showers that rejuvenate your skin and hair. The cabin rests on 2.5 acres of natural splendor with trees and a seasonal creek.

Camper favorites near California City

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Comfortable Guest RV W/ EV Charger

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Bodfish, CA

Ever wanted to live in an RV? Here’s your chance to stay in one—without the expense of owning it! Our RV features a comfortable king-size bed that easily sleeps one, two, or even two and a half—perfect for mommy, daddy, and baby. There’s also a second, individual daybed for extra sleeping space. The kitchen comes equipped with an electric stove, coffee maker, toaster, refrigerator, and microwave. The bathroom, though small, has everything you need. The dining table seats four, and the views out the back are quite lovely.

Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%

(2)

41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent · Silver Lakes, CA

Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!

Isabella Camping

100%

(1)

46mi from California City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Mountain Mesa, CA

NEW PROPERTY! More photos are coming soon!! Lake view with easy access, Tent & Camp; RV camping , electric & water hook ups , laundry mat , restrooms and cold showers. Property is open access off the highway, so there will be slight noise. There are 8 sites in the front with a lake view, and 4 in the back that don't. Total of 12 campsites. There are full hook-ups with water, electric (30 amp), and sewer. The sites are dirt/gravel but not rough terrain. The sites are completely level, so you can park and go. The lake is just on the other side of the highway. You can access the lake by walking, it's right across the street. Less than an 1/8th of a mile is drive in access to the lake. You are welcome to haul in your boat to the property as well, happy to give you boat parking.

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)

Closest Vacay Cabin to the Lake

100%

(2)

47mi from California City · 1 site · Lodging · Lake Isabella, CA

Discover serene "Little Isabella," a 550 sq. ft. cabin with a unique layout just moments from the lake – a 3-min drive or a leisurely 15-min walk. If you ever wanted to stay in a tiny house this is very similar. Enjoy the excellent location on a paved road very close to fishing and boat docks. A cozy loft with a charming sleep space for four or more. Play crib available upon request. We offer a petite basic kitchen, complete with a fridge, stove, microwave, and scenic sink overlooking the lake. A natural well provides chemical-free water for refreshing showers that rejuvenate your skin and hair. The cabin rests on 2.5 acres of natural splendor with trees and a seasonal creek.

Stories from the community

Jared

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

A beautiful spot with excellent views, and a pleasant surprise visit from some cattle on our way up to the location. I strongly suggest bringing something that can off-road a bit, it wasn't a rough drive, but I know my sedan would have gotten stuck or struggled toward the end. The provided outhouse is a welcome addition. It's a nice, quiet spot for a good getaway with a killer view of the stars all around.

E

Evan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Wandering Star Ranch

Loved camping at this site with my friends. There was a ton of space and we were so close to everything we wanted to do. The property backs up to BLM land so if you step out the back gate you’re able to hike beautiful peaks. There’s a pontoon feature that provides great shade, a perfect place to hang a hammock, and stunning views. There’s property is just five minutes from the lake and nature preserve where we fished all week. Mark was a great host and answered all questions leading up to the trip. This was a trip for my best friends bachelor party and was the perfect spot for our group. Couldn’t have been happier. Will definitely be back with my wife soon. Thanks Mark!

Juniper shade with cooking pit: allows 3 two-man tents

B

Ben

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

We had a great stay at Juniper for 2 nights. The site host, Brian, was friendly and very helpful. Wonderful stargazing at night and good privacy, and we enjoyed having access to an outdoor shower right at our site. Would stay again!

M

Maya

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Wandering Star Ranch

My group loved tent camping here at wandering star ranch! The property is huge and BLM land is incredibly close! This spot is absolutely amazing if you like off roading and shooting! We brought our dirt bike and had a BLAST!! There is a little shooting range up the hill too! The lake is close enough to go fishing too and if you run out of any supplies there is a market and gas station close by as well! The restroom was clean but there were a few black widows in there so make sure you bring something along to remove them! Mark was a great host! He was quick with responses and very helpful! We added firewood and the soak tub to our trip and mark set it all up very quickly! We will most definitely be back to camp here again!!

l

louise

August 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

We loved the camping spot and the hospitality of the host. We were welcomed and shown around the gardens, which made a great start of the stay. The view is absolutely stunning! We would come back and will recommend this to anyone visiting the area :)

C

Corey

May 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Isabella Camping

Chris was incredibly welcoming as his very first HipCamp guest! I'll admit I was a bit skeptical initially about staying at a brand-new host's property, but those concerns vanished the moment Chris greeted me. His warm, friendly demeanor and genuine enthusiasm immediately put me at ease. The location was ideal, easy to find and perfectly situated right across from the stunning Isabella Lake. I was looking for a peaceful place to recharge and take advantage of proper amenities, and this spot delivered exactly what I needed. Chris went above and beyond by giving me a thorough tour of everything and sharing thoughtful recommendations for local attractions. Even after I left, he continued to provide helpful suggestions for the area. Don't miss out on Chris's homemade honey, it's absolutely incredible and a perfect local treat to take home. I would definitely stay here again and highly recommend Chris to anyone looking for a peaceful place with a host who truly cares about his guests' experience. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Z

Zoe

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

Roy did a great job of creating a super private little camp site. The views were spectacular and it was close to a lot of cool activities! I would definitely recommend!!

D

DeNiesha

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Double Triangle Ranch

The stay was amazing and much needed. A true camping experience and unbothered. We did the tour and it was nice to see all the plants and animals… the definition of truly camping under the stars. We will be back!

D

Dylan

April 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wandering Star Ranch

I loved camping at wandering star ranch! Beautiful campground, plenty of space to explore. The views of lake Isabella were amazing! The concrete pad and pontoon boat made excellent locations to cook dinner and relax. Booking, checking in, checking out were all straight forward and easy. Toilet was clean. Will for sure be returning in the future!

Katie

April 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

The property has a sweet, private enclosure to pitch your tent with a firepit, table and chairs, and water. And some pretty sweet dogs to greet you. :) It was also cool to see the early stages of a desert permaculture farm.

j

juan

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Easy to find flat spot if you are camping on trailers or roof tents. Amazing views and great if you want to take your bikes. Would definitely camp here again.

G

April 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Great stay for various forms of camping! Spent the night while car camping after other plans fell through - booked a bit late into the evening around 7-8pm and owner was still happy to have us. Site was beautiful at the top of a small hill; far out enough from the city that the sky was clear and the stars were bright. Wind is a bit strong during the windy seasons, as since it's at the top of the hill there is no protection; other spots were protected by the hill for those looking to go during a windy day. Sites are clearky marked and accurate. Woke up in the morning to some nearby sheep which was a welcoming suprise. Would definitely reccomend for anybody in the area or those just passing through. The area receives great data connection (t-mobile).

Jack

March 2025

Tent

1 night at Double Triangle Ranch

Beautiful space! Great hosts. The solar powered water device is really impressive

A

Anthony

March 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Double Triangle Ranch

If you live in the LA area or anywhere around the area of Kern this place is special. The spaces they have for RVs, campers, camper vans or rooftop tents this is an amazing place. You are completely out of the way so personally I felt safe here. The owners are really nice and super helpful. Weather your fishing, hiking, or just exploring the owner has 15 archers you can explore right off the back. If you hike the whole thing it’s amazing. Over all would highly recommend.

J

Jonathan

March 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

The camp site had amazing views of the surrounding area, and the stars at night. The directions to the site were very good, although I do recommend using Google maps vs Apple as Google seems more precise. It was mid-March when we stayed so the weather wasn’t the best, and the wind was blowing! I would stay here again in the future.

J

James-Patrick

March 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

So easy! Such a great time! Such a cool ride in too!

I

Ivan

March 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Thanks so much for hosting us! We actually ran out of power in our 12 volt battery in the car and a gentleman on a Motocross helped us jump start the car. We'll have to come during a new moon so we can see better stars! It was still so bright.

Razz

February 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Double Triangle Ranch

What a truly magical spot there on the side of beautiful mountains overlooking the Kern River Valley. Super peaceful.. great spot to reconnect with the oneness that we all are! I’ll most certainly will return for future visits!! #yeehaw🤠🎸💪🏼🌞 Razz The Roaming Hillbilly

M

Marcel

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

Spent the night with my wife here. Easily accessible via our Mazda CX-5 following the directions provided. Possibly a difficult path if after a hard rain. My only complaint is that the out-house was occupied by a creature when my wife went use it. Out of respect, we gave it its privacy for the rest of our stay. We had the entire campground to ourselves, minus the out-house. Did not do as much stargazing as I would have liked due to exhaustion from an impromptu hike at the nearby poppy reserve. The night sky was awesome except for the light pollution to the south from LA. There are ranches nearby so you do hear the occasional rooster and working dogs. You do hear the faint sound of vehicles off in the distance, but it’s mostly quiet and peaceful. A bonus were the open range sheep and goats in the area. They added a certain charm to our sunset/evening. Overall, it was a nice getaway from typical suburban and city surroundings.

K

Kimberly

February 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

The Magic Portal is a truly unique and special spot in the Mojave Desert. The freestanding door frame, fittingly named the ‘Portal to Nowhere,’ adds a fun and creative touch to the landscape. My dog, however, wasn’t so sure about it and refused to walk through! I was lucky to catch a stunning sunset, and the peacefulness of the area made for a perfect stay. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind desert experience!