The best ranch camping near California City

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Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking to experience the rugged beauty of a ranch setting near California City, California, we've got you covered. With over 790 options specifically tailored to your ranch preference, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, our top campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Holcomb Valley Ranch (470 reviews), and River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews) offer stunning views and unbeatable amenities. Enjoy popular activities like whitewater paddling, biking, and wildlife watching, all while taking advantage of convenient amenities such as trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $20, camping near California City, California has never been more accessible. So grab your gear and get ready to immerse yourself in the great outdoors!

93% (485)

Top-rated campgrounds near California City

1. Bare All Retreat

88%
(43)
35mi from California City · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

3. A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%
(289)
32mi from California City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night

4. Vianey's Campgrounds

100%
(6)
32mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy the Land of 4 seasons. Whether you’re exploring Tehachapi for the first time, or have been living in town for years, the Tehachapi Visitor Center always has something new for guests to discover. Tehachapi offers a wide variety of independently owned restaurants ranging in atmosphere from casual to fine dining. Not to the exclusion of popular national brands, the area hosts unique restaurants known around the country, while other spots remain local secrets. The Tehachapi area is known for the nearby Tehachapi Loop (a popular railfan site), Tehachapi Pass Wind Farm, often high winds, Main Street Tehachapi, the Tehachapi Depot Museum, the Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park and Tomi-Kahni Resource Center (Native American), and excellent air conditions for gliding. Away from the city life you can also experience tranquility and a peaceful atmosphere with a variety of wildlife on the mountain. The path of one of the world’s most well-known trails runs just east of Tehachapi, drawing hikers to the mountain town every year.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$35
 / night

5. Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%
(154)
47mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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

6. Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%
(76)
39mi from California City · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
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

12. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%
(2)
41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent
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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

13. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
46mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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

14. Horse Ranch Camp Desert Paradise

100%
(14)
26mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are the largest Arabian horse rescue in the United States. We are on 100 acres, but are currently using only 10 fenced acres for our horses. We have an average of 75 horses on our property. Most live in larger areas or paddocks in group "herds". We focus on rehabilitation and training with the goal of finding permanent homes for our horses. However, we have about 30+ horses who are "sanctuary horses", either because they are older, or were traumatized, or have health issues, thus will not be rideable. They get to live their lives out with us.Learn more about this land:Come pitch your tent on our horse rescue ranch. Two spots are near our little Western Town, you can even sleep in the jail or inside the general store. Another location is near the horses or in a more secluded area. We have two spots to park RVs as well. You can visit with the horses, while enjoying some idyllic beautiful high desert vistas. At night, you can see the city lights from a distance, but it is far enough to really see the stars in the night sky (no light pollution). Please bring your own chairs. We have a serviced porta-potty with potable water access. Camp Fire: Because of fire danger, there are no campfires possible. We have a working gold mine across the street, that can be hiked up to, to a certain point. We have lots of desert trails surrounding us. Activities: Learn about horses and help at the horse rescue, feeding and watering, giving horses treats. All proceeds from your camping on our property goes to support the horses at our rescue.
Toilets
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking to experience the rugged beauty of a ranch setting near California City, California, we've got you covered. With over 790 options specifically tailored to your ranch preference, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, our top campsites like Cuyama Badlands (1681 reviews), Holcomb Valley Ranch (470 reviews), and River Ridge Ranch -722 acres (348 reviews) offer stunning views and unbeatable amenities. Enjoy popular activities like whitewater paddling, biking, and wildlife watching, all while taking advantage of convenient amenities such as trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $20, camping near California City, California has never been more accessible. So grab your gear and get ready to immerse yourself in the great outdoors!

93% (485)

Top-rated campgrounds near California City

1. Bare All Retreat

88%
(43)
35mi from California City · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

3. A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%
(289)
32mi from California City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$45
 / night

4. Vianey's Campgrounds

100%
(6)
32mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy the Land of 4 seasons. Whether you’re exploring Tehachapi for the first time, or have been living in town for years, the Tehachapi Visitor Center always has something new for guests to discover. Tehachapi offers a wide variety of independently owned restaurants ranging in atmosphere from casual to fine dining. Not to the exclusion of popular national brands, the area hosts unique restaurants known around the country, while other spots remain local secrets. The Tehachapi area is known for the nearby Tehachapi Loop (a popular railfan site), Tehachapi Pass Wind Farm, often high winds, Main Street Tehachapi, the Tehachapi Depot Museum, the Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park and Tomi-Kahni Resource Center (Native American), and excellent air conditions for gliding. Away from the city life you can also experience tranquility and a peaceful atmosphere with a variety of wildlife on the mountain. The path of one of the world’s most well-known trails runs just east of Tehachapi, drawing hikers to the mountain town every year.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$35
 / night

5. Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%
(154)
47mi from California City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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

6. Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%
(76)
39mi from California City · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
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

12. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%
(2)
41mi from California City · 1 site · Tent
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!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

13. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
46mi from California City · 1 site · Tent, RV
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

14. Horse Ranch Camp Desert Paradise

100%
(14)
26mi from California City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are the largest Arabian horse rescue in the United States. We are on 100 acres, but are currently using only 10 fenced acres for our horses. We have an average of 75 horses on our property. Most live in larger areas or paddocks in group "herds". We focus on rehabilitation and training with the goal of finding permanent homes for our horses. However, we have about 30+ horses who are "sanctuary horses", either because they are older, or were traumatized, or have health issues, thus will not be rideable. They get to live their lives out with us.Learn more about this land:Come pitch your tent on our horse rescue ranch. Two spots are near our little Western Town, you can even sleep in the jail or inside the general store. Another location is near the horses or in a more secluded area. We have two spots to park RVs as well. You can visit with the horses, while enjoying some idyllic beautiful high desert vistas. At night, you can see the city lights from a distance, but it is far enough to really see the stars in the night sky (no light pollution). Please bring your own chairs. We have a serviced porta-potty with potable water access. Camp Fire: Because of fire danger, there are no campfires possible. We have a working gold mine across the street, that can be hiked up to, to a certain point. We have lots of desert trails surrounding us. Activities: Learn about horses and help at the horse rescue, feeding and watering, giving horses treats. All proceeds from your camping on our property goes to support the horses at our rescue.
Toilets
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
$60
 / night

Camper favorites near California City

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp 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