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El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area

The best camping in El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area, CA

El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area: A Desert Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

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Stories from the community

mike

1 week ago

21 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Old West Mountain Camping Near LA!

Great quiet spot, no one bothered us. Clean and easy to access. Beautiful. Took my daughter to Vasquez rocks and then camped here in our camper van. Quick and easy overnight from LA.

This is a little vintage, canned ham 1955 for rent that I Renovated myself

Talie

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Kountry Manor

It's a very quiet and peaceful spot. I'm a female that ended up in a situation where I have to car camp. I felt very safe here. I ended up coming quite late and the host still answered the phone to make sure I got where I needed to be. I will definitely be going back.

Clint

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Kountry Manor

Jeannie is an awesome host! She cares about providing a great stay at her property. The area is quiet and not too far from the freeway (not too close either). It's also great for overnighters if you are working near the area.

Clint

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Kountry Manor

Jeannie is a great host! Will be headed back to stay real soon.

Moss

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Holcomb Valley Ranch

Had a great stay tent camping on the Holcomb ranch! Plenty of trees, views, and spots to explore or just hang out. The campsites are well maintained and spaced out from one another with access to individual fire pits and porta-potties. We were a group of 4 with 2 cars and 3 tents, and had more space on the site than we truly knew what to do with. We went mid- November and the first night was pretty cold with it getting just below freezing so make sure you're coming prepared. Special thanks to the camp manager for our stay, Ed -- he was great with prompt contact and instructions for arrival, friendly check ups and information about the site, guidelines, and the area.

Leana

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Holcomb Valley Ranch

We had a good time doing a girls camping trip. There was ample space between us and the other campers, there were lots of trees but also great clearing to see the sky, there was a firepit, picnic table, my dog enjoyed exploring the area, and they left water for us to put the fires out. They called to check-in that we were coming, stopped by our site to see how we were doing, and provided clear directions. Already recommended the site to other families! 10/10

Jessica

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Star Ranch

Had a great time staying here with my family! Everything was so clean , there was cell service so that was nice ! Also some things to note there is a cooking area just no fridge so bring ice and a cooler! No water heater so the shower was cold but felt nice!!! There is a working toilet on site so that was amazing! Two A frames one with a king size bed which was very comfortable it can get windy throughout the day and night but honestly wasn’t a big deal. There’s a port to charge things and some night lights We brought a portable dvd player so once it got dark we were inside the A frame

Nick

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Skoolie in a secluded meadow

This trip was incredible! The area was very private, and there were lots of great amenities. Brian left us a large trash can with a bag, and a cooler stocked with ice. We'll definitely be coming back.

Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

Tent was warm and bed was comfy. Would recommend bringing your own linen. Hot showers and flushable toilets were nice. Campsites have everything you need. Juniper flats does allow nudity so don’t come if you think people won’t be doing it… they will be. It was clean and well taken care of, staff was available when needed

Casandra

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Holcomb Valley Ranch

The sites were decently far apart and camping in November was absolutely perfect. There weren't that many people around and the whole place was quiet. It's not the easiest road to traverse - mostly our dogs didn't like all the rocking. But overall, I would definitely come back - even if it were during the busy season. Our dogs absolutely loved being able to run around and play.

Gillian

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Star Ranch

The site is so great to go camping with a group. Some of us actually used our own tents, some who couldn’t handle the cold used the a-frames that are available. It was a nice little getaway from the cities and all the noise. The stars are sooo pretty at night. I brought my dogs and it was great, I didn’t have to worry about them at all, granted they are trained. They were wandering around and the site is far away from at street, that I let them do their own thing. The girls liked it so much, one of them is coming back with her family to enjoy the sight again.

Nick

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

Angel's Nest is a gem - especially at the price! It's a beautiful mountain cabin that has family entertainment in mind. We played shuffleboard all afternoon and switched it up with the arcade machine and basketball; the kids had a blast! Really lovely kitchen, bedrooms and living areas as well! Great for a family mountain getaway. Only warning is: there are lots of stairs and a very steep driveway. Keep that in mind when if that's an issue for you. Martin was also very responsive and hospitable! We will definitely be back!

"What an amazing house! Our family had so much fun, relaxing in this beautiful home so close to Green Valley Lake. The decks overlooks the beautiful mountains and hillside and is less than 1 minute drive to the lake. Our kids loved the upstairs bedroom with views of the entire valley again with its own private deck." - George, May 20

yesica

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

My family and I enjoyed our stay at SB Mountain cabin. The view was amazing the cabin was nice and clean and very relaxing. We will definitely be back!

Melody

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

19 nights at Rosemead 12 miles to DT Los Angeles

I was so thankful to find this spot. I was in the area for work for 2+ weeks, and as somebody that normally boondocks in forests I couldn't rationalize $100+ night rv resorts. Richard was quick to respond to our request to book, and provided all the information we needed to get there late in the night. We were surprised to have an extension cord for a 15a plug, which really was a nice bonus. The property is secure, and I felt comfortable leaving our rig while I was away at work during the day. We didn't have the opportunity to meet Richard directly, but he was super quick to respond to questions I had while there. We were also surprised to learn we could do laundry on site. The dryer is free, and the washer is 85 cents (3 quarters and a dime). The only downside is that the alley going down to the property is VERY tight and steep. We didn't have a problem getting down, but coming back up we had a clearance issue coming back onto the street. There's a slight dip where the alley levels down to the street and we had to use traction boards and our leveling blocks to keep our rearend high enough to clear our poop tube. If you have low clearance, just be aware and prepared to take some extra steps on your way out. I read some reviews about trucks being parked in the alley while folks were doing work on the property, but I can't complain because the guys working were always super quick to get their things moved out of the way when I was coming and going. Overall, a great experience

Naomi

November 2025

8 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hot Springs Campground

This is the most amazing experience I’ve ever had camping in California on my way to reno I absolutely loved my experience I am coming back

George

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hot Springs Campground

Had a great visit this past weekend! Friendly staff was there at check-in who gave me the run down of the campsite. The hike to the springs is a must! Make sure you go early so that you have plenty of time to spend in the water.

Alejandro

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Holcomb Valley Ranch

Host was super nice, friendly, and helpful. Would definitely return in the future. If you want to disconnect, meditate and refresh. This is that place. Enjoy

Chelsea

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Kountry Manor

Location was very easy to find! And had a peaceful night!

Celena

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The White Lodge

We loved our stay in the Tinned Ham Camper! The property itself was amazing with kitschy and fun decor, beautiful views, friendly hosts, and adorable cats. My favorite part of our stay was the hot tub just a couple steps from our door. We also loved that even though we’re in the middle of Eagle Rock it felt like we traveled to somewhere secluded and romantic. I can’t wait to return here!

Elisa

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

This spot was chill! It’s easy to find, set up, and was a fun, novel stay! it was so quiet you could hear the birds flapping their wings and it was a lovely evening. A nice time out. No toilet paper in the bathroom, but not sure if that’s normal or was a mishap. Either way, all around a nice time. Thanks, Jessica and Josh!

Top-rated campgrounds

Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

88%

(141)

32mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake Arrowhead, CA

Peaceful Off-the-Grid Property in the Mountains of the Mojave Desert, Hot Springs and Numerous Hiking and Off-Roading Trails Nearby... Surrounded by 1,000s of Acres of Undeveloped BLM and US Forestry Land, With Endless Views of the San Bernardino Mountains and High Desert Scenery. Bring Your Tent, Trailer, RV or Camp in your Car . Picnic Tables and Fire Pits (grills available). Flushing Toilets, Pits Toilets, Potable Water, and Showers On-Site. Breakfast Lunch Dinner Served on the Weekends *Warning! The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Even though Deep Creek has never had any known cases of amoeba outbreaks, be advised that the warm waters around hot springs can carry a sometimes fatal amoeba. *Although children are permitted at most sites on the property (children are not permitted at the cabin or spring pool sites), we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924 and has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for more information and detailed driving directions to our property.

Hot Springs Campground

93%

(66)

31mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · Apple Valley, CA

Rural 160 acre homestead property located in the mountains of the Mojave Desert, next to the Deep Creek Hot Springs. This off the grid property is surrounded by 1,000s of acres of undeveloped BLM and US Forestry land, providing endless views of the San Bernardino mountains and high desert scenery, Numerous hiking and OHV offroad trails right off the property. The 6 mile dirt road can be bumpy, but a 4WD isa not necessary. Low profile vehicles and large trailers Park your car, truck/trailer or RV right at one of our developed campsites that has a patch of turf, picnic tables and fire pits (grills available). Flushing toilets, pits toilets, potable water, and showers on site. *Warning! The hike to the Deep Creek Hot Springs is fairly steep and can be difficult for some people, especially in warm weather, so everyone’s physical fitness needs to be considered when deciding to hike to the hot springs with pets, children, elderly people, or out-of-shape/over-weight people in your group. Even though Deep Creek has never had any known cases of amoeba outbreaks, be advised that the warm waters around hot springs can carry a sometimes fatal amoeba. *Although children are permitted at most sites on the property (children are not permitted at the cabin or spring pool sites), we do not recommend bringing them due to occasional nudity that may be seen in the area and the degree of difficulty for the hike. In order to be prepared with the correct gear to make the hike to the hot springs and know the USFS rules that apply to the area, please educate yourself before coming by visiting the USFS website page for the Deep Creek area. Know before you go! The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground is part of the historic Bowen Ranch property that was homesteaded in 1924 and has been the camping and parking area for the Deep Creek Hot Springs for nearly a century. The Bowen Ranch property is under new ownership as of 2020. See our webpage deepcreekhotspringscampground.com for more information and detailed driving directions to our property.

AntFarm LA

98%

(100)

49mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · La Crescenta Montrose, CA

Looking for a quick escape from the city for a peaceful place to recharge? AntFarm LA offers a private, quiet retreat in nature where you can disconnect from the buzz of city life with the convenience of the city nearby. Hand-built with love and a couple of shovels by our family and friends, this hike-in, tent-only site is the perfect oasis for locals and visitors alike. As you embark on the short hike up, you will experience breathtaking views, shaded trails, and a sense of calm as you arrive at your campsite. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets, sunrises, and the tranquil sound of birds chirping—an idyllic backdrop to clear your mind. We’ve thoughtfully added a few comforts so you can enjoy nature without completely leaving modern conveniences behind. Take advantage of amenities like a refrigerator, sink, a bathroom with a flushable toilet, and a shower to refresh after a day of exploring. We also have a few electrical outlets and WiFi if you need to stay connected online or charge your devices. If you want to howl at the moon, we have some more remote hike-in campsites available. Send us a message for details. Out of respect to our neighbors, we do not allow car camping in our parking lot. Car or RV sleeping is permitted on our Van Pad site only, although we do not provide RV hookups. To preserve the quiet, off-the-grid atmosphere we’ve created, we ask that you respect our noise curfew of 10PM. We look forward to having you stay!

Three Pines Cabin | Boulder Bay

47mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 12 sites · Lodging · Big Bear Lake, CA

DISCOVER THREE PINES Here sits the original building from the historic Three Pines Lodge in Big Bear Lake. Three Pines Cabins — Lodge and Hotel’s ideal location is just a few blocks from the lake or a short drive to the shops in Big Bear Lake Village and the Alpine Slide Mountain Coaster. Be inspired by the beauty this vintage property and the lake have to offer. The "Three Pines Cabins" concept was imagined by the visionaries at Sierra Blue Ventures and transformed into a unique destination hotel experience, once serving as one of the original rest stops on the historic Pacific Crest Trail. We feature a selection of cabins, suites, and studios in the heart of Boulder Bay in Big Bear Lake, CA, nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest. We are just under six miles from Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Ski Resorts, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, sledding, and snow play — and still close to Los Angeles for easy access.

SB Mountain Cabin Rentals

95%

(192)

41mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 39 sites · Lodging · Running Springs, CA

Escape to the San Bernardino mountains and experience the ultimate mountain retreat! Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway, or a spacious lodge for a family vacation, we've got you covered. With a dozen stunning cabins to choose from, we offer the perfect accommodation for all seasons and activities. Embrace the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding, or explore the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Or simply unwind and relax in the serene mountain surroundings. Our cabins are conveniently located in Green Valley Lake, Big Bear, Running Springs, and Lake Arrowhead, each offering its own unique charm and adventure. Let us be your host and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today and discover the magic of the San Bernardino mountains!

Kountry Manor

96%

(24)

46mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 6 sites · RVs · Loma Linda, CA

Please call directly before booking 909-363-6310 Long-term possible dry dock-No Hookups for Electric/Water Camp area is behind 110 year old craftsman style home formerly one of the first orange growers in this area. Country like setting with mature trees that are over 100 foot tall and over 100 years old mini or fruit trees. Environmental friendly gardening which includes no pesticides, not manicured natural look preserving nature. we have mini ground squirrels, cottontail bunny rabbits, red tailed hawk, owls and hundreds of birds beautiful. Mountain biking trails regular bike trails lots of walking paths hiking in the nearby foothills. On the other side of Mountain View, which we were right off of is a great Italian restaurant called Sorrentino’s. Everything is delicious there! Great Thi food going west on our street R thi Go on an outing local foothills Oak glen is really beautiful and fun!

Rosemead 12 miles to DT Los Angeles

86%

(68)

50mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Rosemead, CA

Experience Los Angeles from the comfort of your own RV! Our lot in Rosemead, CA, provides the ideal base for exploring the city. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of parking on our secure property, free from the unpredictability of Airbnbs or hotels and save money. With amenities including free water, and wifi, as well as 24/7 security cameras, you can relax and feel at home. We also offer flexible monthly rental options for extended stays.

The Hilltop Getaway

99%

(126)

18mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 1 site · Lodging · Lake Los Angeles, CA

Welcome to The Hilltop Getaway! One of the coziest glamping spots near the Alpine Butte, Palmdale with Joshua Tree landscape just an hour from LA. The amazing 360 view from the jumbo rocks mountains on valley with Joshua Trees will make your memories unforgettable. We also have a great landscape for your spectacular photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, refresh and recharge yourself, you found the place! While our site is private and secluded, it is close to most stores you might need. Palmdale is a 10-minute drive and has a Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Ross, restaurants, fast foods, banks, and more. Additionally, you can visit a lot of unique places just few minutes from us like Antelope Valley Indian Museum, Four Aces Movie Ranch, Movie Set Diner, Club Ed Movie Set, El Mirage Dry Lake, Kill Bill Church, Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, Blackbird Airpark, Dry Town Water Park On our space you'll find 1. Bar/Kitchen area offers a four-burner gas grill with one side burner, kitchen table, sink with foot water pump, bar counter with four chairs on the bar deck; 2. Classic wood picnic table 3. Fire pit with wood chairs and bench for lounging 4. Hammock for relaxing and stargazing 5. Toilet/Shower cabin. Thetford Porta Potti flush toilet, sink with foot water pump, mirror, Eccotemp hot shower We provide towels and soap 6. Cowboy Pool 8ft Open seasonally May - Oct 7. The Geo Dome Tent 23ft (7M) is equipped with everything for a comfortable glamping experience Geo Dome: - Queen bed with memory-foam mattress and bedding - Two Convertable Tri-Fold Sofa Beds - Twin Tufted Back Convertible Sofa - Foldable Camping Cot - Hammock Chair Swing - Dining Set - Nightstands - Kitchen Island with kitchen utensils, pots, tableware - Portable Power Station EcoFlow River Mini for charging and power devices - Propane Portable Heater, indoor-safe (Propane gas is include) - Solar lights - Fresh towel-Fresh linen- Books games for entertainment - fire extinguisher, first aid kit, etc Please note - water in the tank is not drinkable and has a distinct taste Please plan for a “leave no trace” style camping and to take your trash with you upon check out

Camping @ Quail Run Ostrich Ranch

95%

(151)

50mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake Hughes, CA

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.

Holcomb Valley Ranch

98%

(1070)

46mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · Fawnskin, CA

Holcomb Valley Ranch invites you to kick back and relax on our private, 400+ acre ranch in the San Bernardino Mountains. Centered around a 100+ acre meadow, filled with horses in summer months and surrounded by thousands of acres of mountainous National Forest. Just 15 minutes from Big Bear Lake - a large recreational, fresh-water lake for summer swimming, boating, skiing, fishing and other super fun water activities. The Ranch feels remote and private. Yet is only four miles to the town of Big Bear with shopping and restaurants. Also in close proximity to incredible rock climbing at the Pinnacles, seemingly endless hiking and biking and some pretty epic off-roading 4x4 trails. Each campsite is approximately one acre, and generously-distanced from neighboring campers. Amenities include its own fire ring with grilling grate and picnic table(s). The campsites are both cozy enough for 2 or spacious enough for large groups and can easily accommodate a mix of RVs, camper vans and tents. From June to October the 100+ area open meadow is filled with horses grazing and galloping about (please don't pet or feed!) A four-seasons destination, the Ranch has year-round experiences with warm summers and snowy winters. An excellent basecamp, within close proximity to the lake, ski slopes, Pinnacles, hiking/biking and off-roading trails. After a day filled with adventure or ultimate relaxation, be sure to enjoy the breath-taking sunsets over the meadow. The evenings blanket guests with a sea of stars. Toast up some s’mores and warm up some hot-coco over a beautiful, crackling campfire. Remember the s’mores and always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. There are large trash bins by the entrance. We look forward to hosting you at the Ranch! Please note: OHV’s are allowed. They count as one of the allowed vehicles per campsite and must adhere to the speed limit (10mph) and remain on established camp roads while on the property. They may not be driven from 8pm to 8am. It is strictly forbidden to ride your vehicles through the forest, meadow or off any established roads on or off property. Please research which of the surrounding forestry roads allow for your vehicle type to be driven on. Campsites on the west side of the meadow (F, G & H sites) are partially accessed by a forestry road that does not allow dirt bikes. Horses: The horses which may be roaming the meadow during your stay are not property of Holcomb Valley Ranch. When horses are present, guests and their pets are prohibited from entering the meadow. Please do not approach, interact, feed or touch the horses. This is for your safety and the safety of the horses. Do, however, take lots of photos! They make a perfect backdrop:)

The Hacienda

97%

(35)

49mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 2 sites · RVs · Hacienda Heights, CA

Urban camping in a nature setting. Close to hiking trails and centrally located in LA county, just over the hill from the OC. Short trip up adjacent street to hiking and nature park/fitness area.

New Yurt City

81%

(44)

9.6mi from El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake Los Angeles, CA

New Yurt City is one of those hidden gems. The daily views are breathtaking. You can see every star down to the horizon, sunsets are amazing with snow capped mountains. There are lots to do nearby: 30min to ski resort, 1hour to the beach. Near lots of national parks and centrally located. It’s got a small town feel with amazing food trucks with handmade taco 5 mins away. We have atvs and Dirtbikes for rent, a beautiful garden with lots of fresh rosemary and lavender to share.

The best camping in El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area, CA guide

Overview

About

Located just outside of Los Angeles County in the Mojave Desert, El Mirage Lake truly lives up to its name. This dry lakebed often boasts spectacular views and mindbending mirages across what used to be a six-mile-wide lake. Nowadays, El Mirage Lake is used as an OHV or off-highway vehicle recreation area. From ultralight aircraft, gyrocopters, and land-yachts, to full-size airplanes, this large swath of land is perfect for aircraft enthusiasts. If flying isn't quite your speed, feel free to take off across the expanse atop your non-aircraft. Made popular by the many car commercials filmed at this location, the lakebed is the perfect place to test the speed of your automobile.

When to go

The best time to visit El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when the desert temperature is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer visits are possible but expect extreme heat. Always check for current conditions and closure status before planning your trip.

Know before you go

Before heading to El Mirage, ensure your vehicle has a valid pass, with daily, weekly, and seasonal options available.
OHVs must comply with California regulations, including registration and safety equipment.
For safety, spins, donuts, and drifting are prohibited, and alcohol or drug use while operating OHVs is illegal.
Remember to pack out all trash and avoid bringing glass containers or pallets.
Wearing an approved safety helmet is mandatory for all ATV riders on public lands.

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