Discover the best desert campgrounds near Ridgecrest, California

United States
—
California
—
Ridgecrest

81% (420 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ridgecrest

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

95%

(70)

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Olancha, CA

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Death Valley Stargazing Camp

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Valley Wells, CA

PLEASE NOTE: You MUST approach the property from the south through the ghost town of Ballarat. If you try to approach from the north on Indian Ranch Road, you very well may come across some section of road that have been washed out. PLEASE APPROACH FROM THE SOUTH! The easiest way to get here is to navigate to Ballarat first, and then turn north on Indian Ranch Road. Google often thinks the road in between Ballarat and our location is closed, but we assure you it's not, and hasn't been for years. PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE IN THE AREA. Pitch your tent or pull up your RV or camper van on Death Valley's front porch just outside of Surprise Canyon in Panamint Valley. Near the ghost town of Ballarat, Death Valley Stargazing Camp is one of only four private parcels in all of Panamint Valley -- and lies just west of the Death Valley National Park boundary. This pristine valley is untouched, and offers panoramic views of amazing sunsets, sunrises, and of course dark, dark skies! The property features 4 campsites with privacy amongst the 80 acres. All sites have several hundred feet in between them, and include a picnic bench, fire ring, and shared porta-potties across from the Green Alien Mailbox (800 - 1200 feet away depending on your campsite -- or as we call them, Starsites). And did we mention the views?? Whether you're visiting Death Valley, or just passing through the desert -- these campsites are serene, scenic, and include a stargazing wonderland! Site #1: Recessed from the road, this is the biggest site and has ample room for any type of vehicle, as well as lots of vehicles. Vehicles can pull through. Site #2: Closer to the road and also fairly big. Some vehicles can pull through but some will have to back out. Large trailers could be a problem. Site #3: Along side the road and the smallest of the three sites (although all sites are surrounded by nothing). All vehicles will have to back out of this site. Large trailers could be a problem. SIte #4: Across from the mailbox on the west side of the road. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR LARGE TRAILERS OR ANY HEAVY VEHICLES WHICH COULD GET STUCK IN THE SAND! Cars should proceed with caution and stay on the road as there are areas of loose sand near this site. Walk to it first to check conditions if you are unsure. Come join us in the middle of nowhere with dark skies and easy access to Death Valley, the Trona Pinnacles, Darwin Falls, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and countless canyons with mining ruins and adventures!

100%

(5)

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins or trailers. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS

Mulberry Farms-High Desert camping!

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Ridgecrest, CA

Learn more about this land:We have a primitive campsite for you to enjoy quiet nights with stargazing and mountain vistas, and awakening with horses neighing and roosters crowing! Your stay will feel secluded and gives you a great desert experience, but you're close to town and conveniences, restaurants, even our local museum! Bring your off-road vehicles, your bicycles, your hiking boots!

Shiloh Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent300 acres · China Lake Acres, CA

Shiloh is an off grid high desert get away with views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Private camping and rv sites are available on this 300 acre ranch. There are off road trails to unlimited terrain out the back door and lots of hiking and adventure to be had in all directions. Mt. Whitney, the Kern River, the Pinnacles, Red Rocks and Death Valley are a few destinations close by as well.

12 top desert campgrounds near Ridgecrest

95%

(70)

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Olancha, CA

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Death Valley Stargazing Camp

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Valley Wells, CA

PLEASE NOTE: You MUST approach the property from the south through the ghost town of Ballarat. If you try to approach from the north on Indian Ranch Road, you very well may come across some section of road that have been washed out. PLEASE APPROACH FROM THE SOUTH! The easiest way to get here is to navigate to Ballarat first, and then turn north on Indian Ranch Road. Google often thinks the road in between Ballarat and our location is closed, but we assure you it's not, and hasn't been for years. PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE IN THE AREA. Pitch your tent or pull up your RV or camper van on Death Valley's front porch just outside of Surprise Canyon in Panamint Valley. Near the ghost town of Ballarat, Death Valley Stargazing Camp is one of only four private parcels in all of Panamint Valley -- and lies just west of the Death Valley National Park boundary. This pristine valley is untouched, and offers panoramic views of amazing sunsets, sunrises, and of course dark, dark skies! The property features 4 campsites with privacy amongst the 80 acres. All sites have several hundred feet in between them, and include a picnic bench, fire ring, and shared porta-potties across from the Green Alien Mailbox (800 - 1200 feet away depending on your campsite -- or as we call them, Starsites). And did we mention the views?? Whether you're visiting Death Valley, or just passing through the desert -- these campsites are serene, scenic, and include a stargazing wonderland! Site #1: Recessed from the road, this is the biggest site and has ample room for any type of vehicle, as well as lots of vehicles. Vehicles can pull through. Site #2: Closer to the road and also fairly big. Some vehicles can pull through but some will have to back out. Large trailers could be a problem. Site #3: Along side the road and the smallest of the three sites (although all sites are surrounded by nothing). All vehicles will have to back out of this site. Large trailers could be a problem. SIte #4: Across from the mailbox on the west side of the road. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR LARGE TRAILERS OR ANY HEAVY VEHICLES WHICH COULD GET STUCK IN THE SAND! Cars should proceed with caution and stay on the road as there are areas of loose sand near this site. Walk to it first to check conditions if you are unsure. Come join us in the middle of nowhere with dark skies and easy access to Death Valley, the Trona Pinnacles, Darwin Falls, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and countless canyons with mining ruins and adventures!

Shiloh Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent300 acres · China Lake Acres, CA

Shiloh is an off grid high desert get away with views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Private camping and rv sites are available on this 300 acre ranch. There are off road trails to unlimited terrain out the back door and lots of hiking and adventure to be had in all directions. Mt. Whitney, the Kern River, the Pinnacles, Red Rocks and Death Valley are a few destinations close by as well.

Mulberry Farms-High Desert camping!

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Ridgecrest, CA

Learn more about this land:We have a primitive campsite for you to enjoy quiet nights with stargazing and mountain vistas, and awakening with horses neighing and roosters crowing! Your stay will feel secluded and gives you a great desert experience, but you're close to town and conveniences, restaurants, even our local museum! Bring your off-road vehicles, your bicycles, your hiking boots!

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins or trailers. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS

100%

(1)

Something of Our Own Farms

4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Inyokern, CA

Located in the high desert at the base of the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, adventure is down every road. Views of Five Fingers Peaks from the property with spectacular moutnian sunsets. Only 1 hour to Kernville; 1 hour to Kennedy Meadows home of the Golden Trout; 1 hour to Death Valley National Park; 1:20 to Lone Pine and Whitney Portals; 3:30 to Yosemite National Park; about 3 hours from many beaches. The town of Ridgecrest is 15 minutes away and has all the ameneties you could need: Walmart, Home Depot, Tractor Supply, mechanics, hospital, etc. This 3 acre property is a family run small farm with chickens, ducks, turkeys, rabbits, dogs, cats, sheep, and goats. You will hear roosters crowing, sheep baaaing, and children playing. Otherwise this is a quiet location great for star gazing and quiet nights by the fire. 50 Amp hook up and water hook up. WiFi inuded. Trash dumping and bins included. Must bring own toilet. No septic service on site but locations nearby. Fires allowed in pit most times of the year unless under no burn order or winds. Outdoor seating. Pets ok as long as they don't interfere with livestock. Pens available for boarding your horses or livestock. Large riding arena.

Dreamland

6 sites · RVs2 acres · China Lake Acres, CA

Learn more about this land:Inyokern is a census-designated place in Kern County, California, United States. Its name derives from its location near the border between Inyo and Kern Counties. Inyokern is located 8 miles west of Ridgecrest, at an elevation of 2,434 feet. It is on the western side of the Indian Wells Valley.

Booked 13 times

Artist Housings fun land

50 sites · Tents320 acres · Randsburg, CA

Its tons of open land to do whatever u want with it. But leave no trace. Pack it in pack it out.Learn more about this land:320 acres of desert mountains. Great views. Very private. No neighbors for miles. Ridgecrest is 15 minute drive. We are laid back you can do anything you want as long as it's safe and legal. There is an RV on site with a bathroom available for your use. Once booked we will let you know where we hide the keys. (Water does not work unless you connect the RV battery to another vehicle with jumper cables.) This means no water to shower with and dont put anything but the provided Toilet Paper and human waste down the toilet.

100%

(43)

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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 at the Nuii Cuni Center at Wofford heights, a short drive around the lake from us.

100%

(1)

Hoffman Grove

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Johannesburg, CA

Welcome to Hoffman Grove Campground, a serene and rustic camping experience in the heart of the California wilderness! Our campsites are spacious and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, we have the perfect site for you. Each campsite comes equipped with a fire pit for cooking and warmth. While we do not provide bathroom facilities, we do offer a secluded and natural setting for those who seek a rustic camping experience. At Hoffman Grove Campground, we believe that the beauty of camping lies in the simplicity of the outdoors. Our campground is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. We welcome families, couples, and solo travelers to enjoy our peaceful camping environment. Our staff is always on hand to provide assistance and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable stay. If you're looking for a peaceful and rustic camping experience in the heart of the California wilderness, we invite you to book your stay at Hoffman Grove Campground today. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of the outdoors with you!

96%

(34)

3 Peaks Sanctuary

40 sites · Tents10 acres · Boron, CA

Nearby activities include hiking and exploring 'The Buttes', aka '3 Peaks' - a nearby rock formation of ancient origin - about a mile to the south. Also in the area is Harper Dry Lake, which has been used as an airfield to test experiment aircraft in the past, and includes a wildlife viewing area (look for the signs, off Harper Lake Road, on the way in). To the north is Fremont Peak, and in the distance to the East can be found Black Mountain. Common flora in the area include Creosote Bush, Salt Brush and White or, Purple Sage.

100%

(1)

Beysicair Tents & Campground

7 sites · Tents4 acres · Boron, CA

This beautiful California desert tent is great for camping and a perfect outdoor getaway. Located 1 hour and 45 minutes (2 hours maximum) from Los Angeles, 1 hour from Bakersfield, and Golden State/ West Highway to drive too San Francisco. Spend a night or week camping, enjoying the beautiful California desert in this beautiful bohemian camping style tent. The camp site is on 4.7 acres of land located 20 minutes outside of California City. Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Our space is located 20 minutes outside of California City. The entire property is 4.7 acres of open land. This space is perfect for RV parking and camping. We are only offering the land and a space for camping as well as RV parking. There is a dirt bike racing park just 10 minutes from the property. The space is accessible by road.

Available this weekend

92%

(6)

Underworld Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs6 acres · Kernville, CA

Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins or trailers. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS

Mulberry Farms-High Desert camping!

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Ridgecrest, CA

Learn more about this land:We have a primitive campsite for you to enjoy quiet nights with stargazing and mountain vistas, and awakening with horses neighing and roosters crowing! Your stay will feel secluded and gives you a great desert experience, but you're close to town and conveniences, restaurants, even our local museum! Bring your off-road vehicles, your bicycles, your hiking boots!

Shiloh Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent300 acres · China Lake Acres, CA

Shiloh is an off grid high desert get away with views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Private camping and rv sites are available on this 300 acre ranch. There are off road trails to unlimited terrain out the back door and lots of hiking and adventure to be had in all directions. Mt. Whitney, the Kern River, the Pinnacles, Red Rocks and Death Valley are a few destinations close by as well.

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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 at the Nuii Cuni Center at Wofford heights, a short drive around the lake from us.

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Olancha, CA

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Star Hosts in Ridgecrest

100%

(26)

Wandering Star Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent15 acres · Weldon, CA

Learn more about this land:A large private dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental. 7 night maximum. Longer possible with discussion. 15 acres yours to enjoy. Pass through our gates straight into BrightStar Wilderness BLM. Ride your dirt bikes, ATV's, horses. Play your music, let your dogs run free... Great star gazing. Primitive firing range two minute walk away, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking. Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake .The Brightstar wilderness extends to Jawbone canyon.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.Verizon has good service Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away.(Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)

3 Peaks Sanctuary

40 sites · Tents10 acres · Boron, CA

Nearby activities include hiking and exploring 'The Buttes', aka '3 Peaks' - a nearby rock formation of ancient origin - about a mile to the south. Also in the area is Harper Dry Lake, which has been used as an airfield to test experiment aircraft in the past, and includes a wildlife viewing area (look for the signs, off Harper Lake Road, on the way in). To the north is Fremont Peak, and in the distance to the East can be found Black Mountain. Common flora in the area include Creosote Bush, Salt Brush and White or, Purple Sage.

100%

(7)

Kernville Ranch

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Kernville, CA

Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,

Double Triangle Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · 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 at the Nuii Cuni Center at Wofford heights, a short drive around the lake from us.

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Olancha, CA

Welcome to our new resort with breathtaking views our 100 acre RV retreat and our nearly 1 mile shoreline of beautiful Olancha Lake with the majestic snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and Death Valley to the east make for an incredible retreat. We are located near Lone Pine in the township of Olancha in the Owens Valley of California.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

The trails of Red Rock Canyon State Park.

98%

(20)

Red Rock Canyon State Park

California City, California

98%

(262)

Sequoia National Forest

Ponderosa, California

Desert camping near Ridgecrest guide

Overview

Looking to experience the desert in all its glory near Ridgecrest, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you'll find over 1,700 options specifically tailored to your desert terrain preference. With options as low as $5 per night and an average price of $30 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out the top-rated Death Valley Stargazing Camp (171 reviews), Death Valley Camp (132 reviews), and Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews) for a stellar camping experience. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and the ability to bring your furry friend along. Plus, get your adrenaline pumping with activities like off-roading (OHV), swimming, and exploring historic sites. Don't miss out on the ultimate desert camping adventure!