The best desert camping near Searles Valley

·

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% (196)

Top-rated campgrounds

Golden Cactus Ghost Town

6. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
27mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

7. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
31mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Olancha Resort

15. Olancha Resort

47mi from Searles Valley · 131 sites · Olancha, CA
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% (196)

Top-rated campgrounds

Golden Cactus Ghost Town

6. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
27mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

7. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
31mi from Searles Valley · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Olancha Resort

15. Olancha Resort

47mi from Searles Valley · 131 sites · Olancha, CA
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!

Camper favorites near Searles Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

Other options near Searles Valley

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