The best desert camping near Searles Valley

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Camping in Searles Valley puts you in the heart of California’s high desert, surrounded by jagged mountains and endless sky. You have over 300 desert campsites to choose from here, with prices starting at just $5 and an average night costing $40. Sites range from open, stargazer-friendly clearings to practical spots near rocky outcrops. Crowd favorites include Death Valley Stargazing Camp (202 reviews), Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground (142 reviews), and 3 Peaks Sanctuary (27 reviews). Most sites offer toilets and showers, and you can bring pets along. You’ll find climbers tackling boulders at sunrise, hikers tracing dry washes, and anglers casting lines in nearby lakes. If you want desert solitude, this is where you’ll find it—plus the kind of night sky that makes you forget your phone exists.

95% (198) 38 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Searles Valley

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

1. Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%
(226)
49mi from Searles Valley · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Desert Stargazers Dream

2. Desert Stargazers Dream

88%
(13)
48mi from Searles Valley · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Less them 3 hours from Los Angeles, this private property is 2 acres of the secluded desert for you to enjoy! Just outside California City, there are miles of roads for the off-road enthusiast and some of the best stargazing in California. (As the Mayor once said, you can see more stars in California City then you could in Los Angeles). There is also great rockhounding and hiking opportunities! Campers can set up camp anywhere on the property but we also have an area cleared off for tent or car camping. There is also a firepit - enjoy and have a huge bon fire! Fires are allowed but must be completely put out, and campers must bring all their own supplies. All off-roading must get permit before hand - contact host for details.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

3. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
27mi from Searles Valley · 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 
$33
 / night
Red Rock Canyon State Park

4. Red Rock Canyon State Park

98%
(22)
50 sites · California City, California
Star in your very own Western in the Californian desert.
Sequoia National Forest

5. Sequoia National Forest

98%
(270)
905 sites · Ponderosa, California
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

6. Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

100%
(1)
39mi from Searles Valley · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Desert 🌵 off grid camping. There are no amenities, please come prepared with water. If you are tent camping, you are required to bring your own toilet. This is a property setup for experienced campers. The property is 15 minutes away from an Astronomy Retreat - Galileo Hill is situated near Silver Saddle Ranch and Club within California City, a city in the Mojave Desert. This is Birding Hotspot: It's recognized as a birding hotspot, attracting birdwatchers due to the diverse birdlife in the area.. This area is known for it's dark skies, so you will have stellar views for stargazing. Close to Fremont Valley Ecological Reserve. In between Red Rock Canyon State Park & Grass Valley Wilderness.
Pets
from 
$17
 / night
Silver Spur Ranch

7. Silver Spur Ranch

100%
(5)
50mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Creek side "Oasis" located close by to the Kern River Valley and Lake Isabella Located in a valley that meets the junction of the High Sierras and Mojave region Here at the ranch are 110 acres of open space with a wooded creek side ! There is a large yard and lawn area by the site RV sites with hookups are available at $65 nightly T Mobil cell service available at the ranch (No Att or Verizon) Wifi available "silver spur ranch" ask for passcode Sequoia Nat Forest is nearby and also a network of OHV trails close by ! Also a 2 bedroom cabin is available to rent here at the ranch ..
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$56
 / night
RRR Ranch Mojave

8. RRR Ranch Mojave

100%
(1)
44mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
The RRR Ranch was formed on December 25, 2005, by Brian and Rick with a vision of a place where artists and filmmakers can create and relax. 15 acres of remote desert in the Fremont Valley the ranch sits on the slopes of the hills over looking Kohen Dry Lake. We have hosted numerous events and film shoots. Explore the ranch and the surrounding areas, We have stages, fire pits, diy bars, 20 foot tall steel pyramid with observation deck and performance stage. 16 foot dome filled with tech stuff. Vintage bath tub. And 250 gallon tub, burned out car. Mini geodesic kids dome, stargazing, sand dunes and 3000 gallon water tank.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Haiwee Flats

9. Haiwee Flats

83%
(3)
43mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Come and enjoy a beautiful relaxing weekend at Haiwee flats, 360 views of mountains, pull in site with easy access to the highway. Also a few miles nearby is the Haiwee Reservoir, ..please respect signs. Lots of exploring and hiking nearby. Sageflats is a nearby road that can bring you closer to the mountains. Get lost enjoy yourself.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
OHV Roadside Paradise in Cal City

10. OHV Roadside Paradise in Cal City

86%
(11)
50mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Right by the road. Easy access. Fun OHV Trails. Park your RV and bring your OHV. This patch of land is perfect for all your desert toys. Off the main paved road (20 Mule Team). Bring the whole family. Pets welcome. Easy access to food, water, and supplies California City has Gas Stations, Variety of Restaurants, Dollar General (Food and Firewood), McDonalds, Family Dollar Store (Propane), and free dump station for RVs (Cal City RV Refuse Transfer Station) . On the way to Map Coordinates: 35.18706° N, 117.79470° W
Pets
from 
$5
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

11. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
31mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Robison Ranch

12. Robison Ranch

100%
(2)
25mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Just off Highway 395, beneath the eastern Sierras, sits a former racehorse training facility with sweeping views of both the resident horses and surrounding mountains. The property features a horse courtyard and open, undeveloped land for camping—peaceful, quiet, and perfect for slowing down. Stargazing is encouraged, with dark skies that truly shine. An outhouse with a toilet and sink is available on-site for campers’ use.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

13. FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

34mi from Searles Valley · 98 sites · Tents, RVs
Our guests will enjoy a spacious quarter-acre site all to themselves. Per county zoning, we only allow 4 RVs per acre. We don’t price by size or year, but by lot. We’re 13 miles from Fremont Peak, 14 miles from Grass Valley Wilderness, and just 4 miles from Cuddleback Dry Lake — the perfect location for all your outdoor toys. The property features mostly flat landscapes, making setup easy. Please note: we do not provide hookups of any kind. We only ask that you enjoy yourselves and help keep our community clean by remembering the Leave No Trace motto.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Desert Wonderland

14. Desert Wonderland

45mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Learn more about this land:Welcome to the desert! Our property opens up a nice flat space to park your RV or trailer, where you can camp under the stars. There are shrubs and wildlife surrounding the campsite where you can really experience a peaceful night night of primitive camping. We look forward to your stay!
Pets
from 
$16
 / night
Olancha Resort

15. Olancha Resort

47mi from Searles Valley · 131 sites
Nestled on 65 acres of stunning landscape, Olancha Resort stands out as a unique destination with unparalleled views of majestic mountain ranges and enchanting starry skies. To the east, you'll find the renowned Death Valley and the Whites Mountain Range, while the High Sierras, featuring the impressive Olancha Peak at 12,132 feet, rise majestically to the west. Recognized as the Gateway to Death Valley and just minutes away from Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,494 feet, our resort offers an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On-site, guests can indulge in delicious meals at Olancha Café, which serves grass-fed beef and bison, or explore our general store stocked with exotic beers, ice cream, and unique gifts. For relaxation, enjoy our well-water swimming pool, along with convenient public restrooms, showers, and a laundromat. We also provide RV spots with 30/50 amp full hookups, as well as comfortable motel rooms, including suites and family accommodations, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. Experience the beauty and adventure that Olancha Resort has to offer!

Camping in Searles Valley puts you in the heart of California’s high desert, surrounded by jagged mountains and endless sky. You have over 300 desert campsites to choose from here, with prices starting at just $5 and an average night costing $40. Sites range from open, stargazer-friendly clearings to practical spots near rocky outcrops. Crowd favorites include Death Valley Stargazing Camp (202 reviews), Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground (142 reviews), and 3 Peaks Sanctuary (27 reviews). Most sites offer toilets and showers, and you can bring pets along. You’ll find climbers tackling boulders at sunrise, hikers tracing dry washes, and anglers casting lines in nearby lakes. If you want desert solitude, this is where you’ll find it—plus the kind of night sky that makes you forget your phone exists.

95% (198) 38 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Searles Valley

Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

1. Lake Olancha RV Park and Campground

95%
(226)
49mi from Searles Valley · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Desert Stargazers Dream

2. Desert Stargazers Dream

88%
(13)
48mi from Searles Valley · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Less them 3 hours from Los Angeles, this private property is 2 acres of the secluded desert for you to enjoy! Just outside California City, there are miles of roads for the off-road enthusiast and some of the best stargazing in California. (As the Mayor once said, you can see more stars in California City then you could in Los Angeles). There is also great rockhounding and hiking opportunities! Campers can set up camp anywhere on the property but we also have an area cleared off for tent or car camping. There is also a firepit - enjoy and have a huge bon fire! Fires are allowed but must be completely put out, and campers must bring all their own supplies. All off-roading must get permit before hand - contact host for details.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

3. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
27mi from Searles Valley · 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 
$33
 / night
Red Rock Canyon State Park

4. Red Rock Canyon State Park

98%
(22)
50 sites · California City, California
Star in your very own Western in the Californian desert.
Sequoia National Forest

5. Sequoia National Forest

98%
(270)
905 sites · Ponderosa, California
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

6. Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

100%
(1)
39mi from Searles Valley · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Desert 🌵 off grid camping. There are no amenities, please come prepared with water. If you are tent camping, you are required to bring your own toilet. This is a property setup for experienced campers. The property is 15 minutes away from an Astronomy Retreat - Galileo Hill is situated near Silver Saddle Ranch and Club within California City, a city in the Mojave Desert. This is Birding Hotspot: It's recognized as a birding hotspot, attracting birdwatchers due to the diverse birdlife in the area.. This area is known for it's dark skies, so you will have stellar views for stargazing. Close to Fremont Valley Ecological Reserve. In between Red Rock Canyon State Park & Grass Valley Wilderness.
Pets
from 
$17
 / night
Silver Spur Ranch

7. Silver Spur Ranch

100%
(5)
50mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Creek side "Oasis" located close by to the Kern River Valley and Lake Isabella Located in a valley that meets the junction of the High Sierras and Mojave region Here at the ranch are 110 acres of open space with a wooded creek side ! There is a large yard and lawn area by the site RV sites with hookups are available at $65 nightly T Mobil cell service available at the ranch (No Att or Verizon) Wifi available "silver spur ranch" ask for passcode Sequoia Nat Forest is nearby and also a network of OHV trails close by ! Also a 2 bedroom cabin is available to rent here at the ranch ..
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$56
 / night
RRR Ranch Mojave

8. RRR Ranch Mojave

100%
(1)
44mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
The RRR Ranch was formed on December 25, 2005, by Brian and Rick with a vision of a place where artists and filmmakers can create and relax. 15 acres of remote desert in the Fremont Valley the ranch sits on the slopes of the hills over looking Kohen Dry Lake. We have hosted numerous events and film shoots. Explore the ranch and the surrounding areas, We have stages, fire pits, diy bars, 20 foot tall steel pyramid with observation deck and performance stage. 16 foot dome filled with tech stuff. Vintage bath tub. And 250 gallon tub, burned out car. Mini geodesic kids dome, stargazing, sand dunes and 3000 gallon water tank.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Haiwee Flats

9. Haiwee Flats

83%
(3)
43mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Come and enjoy a beautiful relaxing weekend at Haiwee flats, 360 views of mountains, pull in site with easy access to the highway. Also a few miles nearby is the Haiwee Reservoir, ..please respect signs. Lots of exploring and hiking nearby. Sageflats is a nearby road that can bring you closer to the mountains. Get lost enjoy yourself.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
OHV Roadside Paradise in Cal City

10. OHV Roadside Paradise in Cal City

86%
(11)
50mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Right by the road. Easy access. Fun OHV Trails. Park your RV and bring your OHV. This patch of land is perfect for all your desert toys. Off the main paved road (20 Mule Team). Bring the whole family. Pets welcome. Easy access to food, water, and supplies California City has Gas Stations, Variety of Restaurants, Dollar General (Food and Firewood), McDonalds, Family Dollar Store (Propane), and free dump station for RVs (Cal City RV Refuse Transfer Station) . On the way to Map Coordinates: 35.18706° N, 117.79470° W
Pets
from 
$5
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

11. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
31mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Robison Ranch

12. Robison Ranch

100%
(2)
25mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV
Just off Highway 395, beneath the eastern Sierras, sits a former racehorse training facility with sweeping views of both the resident horses and surrounding mountains. The property features a horse courtyard and open, undeveloped land for camping—peaceful, quiet, and perfect for slowing down. Stargazing is encouraged, with dark skies that truly shine. An outhouse with a toilet and sink is available on-site for campers’ use.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

13. FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

34mi from Searles Valley · 98 sites · Tents, RVs
Our guests will enjoy a spacious quarter-acre site all to themselves. Per county zoning, we only allow 4 RVs per acre. We don’t price by size or year, but by lot. We’re 13 miles from Fremont Peak, 14 miles from Grass Valley Wilderness, and just 4 miles from Cuddleback Dry Lake — the perfect location for all your outdoor toys. The property features mostly flat landscapes, making setup easy. Please note: we do not provide hookups of any kind. We only ask that you enjoy yourselves and help keep our community clean by remembering the Leave No Trace motto.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Desert Wonderland

14. Desert Wonderland

45mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · RV
Learn more about this land:Welcome to the desert! Our property opens up a nice flat space to park your RV or trailer, where you can camp under the stars. There are shrubs and wildlife surrounding the campsite where you can really experience a peaceful night night of primitive camping. We look forward to your stay!
Pets
from 
$16
 / night
Olancha Resort

15. Olancha Resort

47mi from Searles Valley · 131 sites
Nestled on 65 acres of stunning landscape, Olancha Resort stands out as a unique destination with unparalleled views of majestic mountain ranges and enchanting starry skies. To the east, you'll find the renowned Death Valley and the Whites Mountain Range, while the High Sierras, featuring the impressive Olancha Peak at 12,132 feet, rise majestically to the west. Recognized as the Gateway to Death Valley and just minutes away from Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,494 feet, our resort offers an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On-site, guests can indulge in delicious meals at Olancha Café, which serves grass-fed beef and bison, or explore our general store stocked with exotic beers, ice cream, and unique gifts. For relaxation, enjoy our well-water swimming pool, along with convenient public restrooms, showers, and a laundromat. We also provide RV spots with 30/50 amp full hookups, as well as comfortable motel rooms, including suites and family accommodations, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. Experience the beauty and adventure that Olancha Resort has to offer!

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field