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Harper Dry Lake

The best camping in Harper Dry Lake, CA

Discover the allure of Harper Dry Lake's desert oasis and wildlife habitat.

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Stories from the community

Where adventure meets tranquility — your perfect camping spot.

Dani

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Casa Zen

I really enjoyed tent camping on Ric's land. They have an amazing set up. The outdoor shower is absolutely gorgeous! Its a great spot to escape the city. Ric and his wife were very friendly as well.

Robert

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Fort Bailey Private Desert Estate

We spent a rainy weekend at Camp Juniper and had the most relaxing time. Sarah was an excellent and responsive host, and there were no issues at all. The hot tub was great, especially with the chilly night. I highly recommend!

Erica

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Holistic Happiness

The host was very kind and the map was very helpful.

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

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

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.

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.

Jonathan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Star Ranch

Nice and secluded campground. Host was very responsive. Will definitely book a future trip.

Michael

October 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mojave Moonlight Camping

Absolutely stunning spot from no matter where you turn your head. I honestly can’t remember feeling that relaxed. And the sunrise I will never forget. Truly wonderful host. Thank you so much!!!

Christy

October 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Mountain Shadow Hideaway

Cute and clean property with a lovely view. The picnic table and close proximity to the interstate was a bonus!

rileyxmccarthy

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

My partner and I have camped here twice now and we love it, hospitable staff, open area for camping with a table and bonfire area as well. Beautiful sunsets and sunrises and lighting around the area. They just added glamping areas to rent with other amenities like shower, pool table and more! We will definitely be returning in the near future!

Mark

October 2025

33 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Mardi-Gras Manor

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this property and will definitely return when we are in the area. Jon B was a welcoming, communicative, friendly, and informative host. We appreciate all that he did for us.

Dylan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Desert Skate Ranch

Good communication from the host. Sic skate spot.

Jared

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Star Ranch

Truly excellent! We will be back again! Everything was as expected and we had a wonderful time.

rick

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Fort Bailey Private Desert Estate

Great place, very cozy, packed with every you can imagine to make your outdoor retreat one of the best, lots of board games, full kitchen & fridge, very comfortable bed, fire pit & spa were a super plus!

aviva

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Hilltop Getaway

Super beautiful spot! The site itself is set up very cute and comfortable. It’s off-grid but still very usable. The site is magnificent. Beautiful rock mountains everywhere, gorgeous views, and so secluded. I suggest triple checking directions- the names of the streets on the maps do not coincide with the actual street names. So don’t follow the maps, follow the pictures, there are sand traps everywhere. The dome itself is also charming and all-in-all a total gem of a spot! We loved it.

Sam

October 2025

41 ft fifth wheel

1 night at Mountain Shadow Hideaway

We came back for a surprise visit to see our new friends! I would 1000% recommend them to anyone traveling to Barstow or through California their way! Whether it’s for work or leisure, they’re always welcoming and treat you as part of their family. They’re truly amazing and kind people!

Keri

September 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Mojave Moonlight Camping

Such a lovely piece of land! Remote,quiet with amazing views! Worth the drive from Barstow for a restful night!

Cati

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

the Glamping option had literally everything we needed, even portable solar lights that we were able to use while walking after dark. it was nice returning to a lit camp site as well. The Hot springs themselves were amazing, and right next a colder swim spot to cool off. Jess gave such clear directions for us, even though I had watched YouTube videos before, it was easy to visualize when she pointed out landmarks. We camped on a weekend and were lucky to get to enjoy the rec room tent at night.

Top-rated campgrounds

Bowen Ranch Deep Creek Hot Springs

88%

(141)

46mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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)

46mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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.

The Hilltop Getaway

99%

(126)

45mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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

Silva Ranch LLC

33mi from Harper Dry Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Newberry Springs, CA

Experience our secluded and relaxing camping getaway, with spacious campsites, easy off-road access, and a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a laid-back day of fishing — the pond is home to plenty of bluegill and largemouth bass (catch-and-release only) — making for a memorable outdoor experience.

New Yurt City

81%

(44)

40mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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.

Star Ranch

97%

(17)

44mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Palmdale, CA

Experience the beauty of nature at our tent spot! Picture romantic sunsets and starry nights that will steal your breath away. You can snuggle up in our charming A-frame cabins or pitch your own tent for an amazing experience. Its cozy and has natural beauty don't wait any longer your perfect escape awaits!

Desert Stargazers Dream

88%

(13)

28mi from Harper Dry Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · California City, CA

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.

Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%

(274)

34mi from Harper Dry Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lucerne Valley, CA

Located in the outskirts of Lucene ValleyLearn more about this land: Experience a blanket of stars at night, beautiful sunrise and sunsets. We have limited it to only 4 campsites so there is plenty of space and privacy on this 20 acre campsite.Hike the mountain, experience nature and solitude and be just 10 minutes from a town where a supermarket, hardware store, service station, post office, sheriff's station and a variety of restaurants are available.This is big sky and wide open California Desert. Remote enough to be away from crowds but close enough for all the essentials.Life is short ... Get outside.

Happy Gray Coyote

98%

(47)

43mi from Harper Dry Lake · 3 sites · RVs · California City, CA

Property has been in my family for 60 years. Hope you enjoy the desert getaway!Learn more about this land:5 acres of open desert. Great views of surrounding mountains. Middle of nowhere, a great spot to get away from it all.. star gaze, and just chill out. Boon dock off the grid. NO Facilities but town has everything you could need and just far enough away... If you plan on having a campfire please obtain a burn permit on line. Its free and a great fire safety precaution. Obviously NO FIREWORKS.

Mardi-Gras Manor

100%

(12)

40mi from Harper Dry Lake · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Newberry Springs, CA

Clothing Optional or Objectionable Clothing Wear or not wear whatever you want LGBTQ supportive. Nine spaces. 7 have full hook-ups. $45/nite Dry $55/nite w hook-ups (The hook-up sites are OK for dry camping as well) Seasonal: May 1st - Oct 31st. Mardi-gras Manor means everyday can be Halloween. Pond, boats, floaties, paddle boards, zip line and an outside bar... Pool table, darts, ping pong, etc. Onward Capt Jon

RRR Ranch Mojave

39mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · California City, CA

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.

Desert Skate Ranch

83%

(3)

36mi from Harper Dry Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Newberry Springs, CA

Introducing a one-of-a-kind 5-acre Mojave desert gem in Newberry Springs, CA! Nestled within this expanse, discover a striking concrete skatepark, classic 1950s swimming pool once graced by Frank Sinatra (currently emptied for skating), outdoor bathroom and shower, campsites with picnic tables and fire pits, and cabins (cabins currently under construction). This property is located right in the middle of Las Vegas and Los Angeles offering an iconic backdrop for your next trip. With its unique charm and picturesque rolling hills/ mountain views, this space promises an unforgettable experience for any occasion. Located right off the 15 freeway in close proximity to Calico Ghost town. Property Features: - 5+ acres of mostly flat/ barren desert dirt - Classic 1950s swimming pool (emptied to skate in) - concrete, public-grade skatepark that has been on the cover of Thrasher Magazine - dry mini lake/ pond - Electrical hookups for RVs - outdoor restroom and shower - two 40' shipping containers with 1,500 sq. ft. arched dome going from one to the other with a skateboarding mini half pipe and concert venue stage in between the containers - two 140 sq. ft. pond-front cabins (currently under construction) - very private location with little to no noise restrictions - rustic patio covering with skateboard deck swings, a schoolyard picnic table - outdoor fire pits - Commercial grade horseshoe pits - campsites Please message us with any additional questions. We're flexible on rates, budget, and booking durations. Check us out on instagram: @DesertSkateRanch

The best camping in Harper Dry Lake, CA guide

Overview

About

Harper Lake or "Harper Dry Lake" is an outdoor recreation area located in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County. While the fishing may have dried up decades ago there is still plenty to do. Over the years this park has become famous for it's offroading, rock-crawling, and mudding. While in this region of the Mojave Desert be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife that is drawn from the desert to this arshy environment.

When to go

The best time to visit Harper Dry Lake is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when the desert climate is more forgiving. Summer visits can be challenging due to extreme heat, making outdoor activities less comfortable.

Know before you go

Check fire restrictions before you go, as they may be in place from May to October due to high fire danger.
Dispersed camping is allowed; look for areas with clear signs of use and minimal vegetation.
Remember that off-highway vehicle travel is limited to designated routes to protect the environment.
Be mindful of the desert tortoise habitat and adhere to wildlife viewing guidelines.
For any inquiries or additional information, contact the Bureau of Land Management at 760-252-6000.

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