The best camping in Harper Dry Lake, CA

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

The best camping in Harper Dry Lake, CA

Mojave Moonlight Camping

1. Mojave Moonlight Camping

98%
(281)
34mi from Harper Dry Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Mountain Shadow Hideaway

2. Mountain Shadow Hideaway

100%
(22)
38mi from Harper Dry Lake · 7 sites
Welcome to Mountain Shadow Hideaway. A beautiful vacation getaway for the desert enthusiast, located right off of Historic route 66! This five acre, fully fenced property, sits right at the base of the beautiful Newberry Mountain and boasts all the natural gifts the desert has to offer. You can relax and drink your coffee while enjoying the beautiful sunrise, or sip on your wine while enjoying the most spectacular sunset as the sun dips behind the mountain. Star gazers rejoice while marveling at what the night sky has to offer. Rock hounders can enjoy tons of natural geological wonders, while finding geodes, thundereggs, amethyst, and maybe even be lucky enough to find that elusive gold nugget. There are sixty trees lining the back of the property where you can go sit and read and just disappear from the hustles of life. To learn more about our quiet little town, please continue reading. You won't be disappointed! We hope you choose us for your next awesome Route 66 vacation! Newberry Springs, California is a very small peaceful town located off of Historic Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road". It is most famously known for our groves of pistachios and the famous Baghdad Cafe which was featured in the 1987 film Baghdad Cafe. Our property happens to be 1.5 miles from the famous Baghdad Cafe which makes a quick visit to the Cafe incredibly convenient. To celebrate our Pistachios, come join us the first Saturday of every November for our Pistachio Festival which boasts lots of vendors, food, and fun! Speaking of festivals, if you like large firework shows in the sky, then you'll want to be sure to book a spot here every July 3rd for our big 3rd of July Festival which again, is home to lots of vendors, food, fun and an amazing firework display which we happen to have front row seats to. You won't have to worry about parking if you're already here! Do you love celestial events? If so, you'll want to book a site here between July 17th and August 24th for the 2025 year, to witness the Perseids Meteor Shower. Our night skies are also one of the best views for many Space X launchings as well as just simply stargazing. Some people have even been able to capture beautiful pictures of the Milky Way from our humble little town!
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Desert Castle

3. Desert Castle

91%
(11)
38mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
My grandparents built this in 1954, and we have now been putting love into it and want everyone to experience how amazing it can really be out here at the desert castleLearn more about this land:This desert castle lays in the great Mojave desert. Great getaway with friends or family, one stone house standing in sight and that is your home away from home, this stone house can’t wait to get some attention, you will get it as the last campers left it so please clean up after yourself, and leave the cabin how you would like to receive it. There is good cell reception Call me at (805)-698-8623 if you have questions or need anything!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night
Camp NadaLotta

4. Camp NadaLotta

95%
(94)
39mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site
Chrissy & Ian McAllister LOVE camping the wide-open desert and invested in this land to create a private campground designed for their friends & family. We invite you to join us in building a special place made to appreciate the simpler things in life. Learn more about this land:Enjoy the beautiful landscape of Antelope Valley with your own private and secluded desert getaway. Located in the Lake Los Angeles area with direct access to Saddleback Butte State Park. Enjoy the super-bloom wildflowers, awe-inspiring flyby's from Edwards Airfield and miles of off-roading trails. 90 Minutes from LA. After booking you will receive a camp guide and directions that you will need to reach the site. 
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Mardi-Gras Manor

5. Mardi-Gras Manor

100%
(13)
40mi from Harper Dry Lake · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Happy Gray Coyote

6. Happy Gray Coyote

97%
(48)
43mi from Harper Dry Lake · 3 sites
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.   
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Fort Bailey Private Desert Estate

7. Fort Bailey Private Desert Estate

94%
(18)
43mi from Harper Dry Lake · 4 sites
Welcome to your private 2-acre retreat nestled in the heart of the high desert, surrounded by a forest of iconic Joshua trees. Just 20 minutes from Mountain High Ski Resort, this serene escape offers the perfect blend of rugged beauty and peaceful seclusion. 🌄 Unforgettable sunsets paint the sky each evening 🏔 Quick access to skiing, snowboarding, and mountain adventures 🌵 Countless Joshua trees create a magical, otherworldly landscape 🚪 Fully fenced for privacy and peace of mind
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night
Star Ranch

8. Star Ranch

97%
(19)
44mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$76
 / night
The Hilltop Getaway

9. The Hilltop Getaway

99%
(131)
45mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$181
 / night
Hot Springs Campground

10. Hot Springs Campground

94%
(70)
46mi from Harper Dry Lake · 33 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$73
 / night
RV at new mini goat ranch

11. RV at new mini goat ranch

100%
(17)
50mi from Harper Dry Lake · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
The area was an alfalfa farm in the early 1900's. The property was purchased in 2019 and it has been a passion project to beautify and bring life to the area ever since. Hiking and jogging across the street and surrounding areas available, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, 10 mins from groceries and fast food.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$43
 / night
FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

12. FoxTrotter House Boondock Community

19mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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
Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

13. Wild Wash Regenerative Ranch

100%
(2)
20mi from Harper Dry Lake · 1 site
Escape to a living oasis on our family land lab in the middle of the Great Mojave Desert! Located right off Historic Route 66, Wild Wash Ranch is situated at the top of a hill boasting 360 degree views of the Mojave River to the West, The San Bernardino Mountains to the South, Silver Lakes to the North, and the vast open desert to the East. THIS IS A WORKING REGENERATIVE FARM. We harvest rainwater from our farm structures, produce our own energy, grow and raise fruit trees, fodder trees, native plants, chickens, rabbits, and dogs. Our farm is carefully managed every day in order to ensure a regenerative future of local ecological resilience. We welcome anyone interested in learning about and participating in protecting our desert and working with nature to produce abundance for all! Less than 5 miles away from the farm is the community of Silver Lakes, with grocery stores, restaurants, beaches, and parks. Very close by you’ll find famous Route 66 attractions such as Elmers Bottle Ranch, Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, and Antique Station. Locals in this area also frequent nearby attractions such as Palisades Ranch, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Silverwood Lake. Immerse yourself in the future of farming at our evolving, experimental ranch, where dryland innovation meets off-grid charm. Unplug, unwind, and witness the beauty of dynamic desert resilience as you explore our rolling landscape. Watch the sunset over the Mojave River, camp under the stars and join us on a journey to redefine sustainable living – a unique adventure awaits on this eco-friendly retreat! Wild Wash Ranch is a working regenerative farm serving as the flagship demonstration site for Seeds Of Succession, a permaculture nonprofit working to empower local communities through land stewardship practices aimed toward reversing desertification, and promoting food sovereignty. Fire pit, firewood, and outdoor seating provided, as well as a rocket stove for quick, fuel efficient outdoor cooking so you won’t have to miss the sunset to prepare dinner!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

14. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
24mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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
Desert Mirage Retreat

15. Desert Mirage Retreat

25mi from Harper Dry Lake · 50 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the raw beauty of the Mojave Desert at Desert Mirage Retreat, a serene camping destination in the heart of Oro Grande, California. This unique property offers breathtaking panoramic views of desert landscapes, making it the perfect escape for adventurers, off-road enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Unmatched Desert Views Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the high desert. From rolling dunes and rugged terrain to vibrant sunsets that light up the horizon, every moment at Desert Mirage Retreat is a feast for the senses. At night, the clear skies reveal a dazzling display of stars, offering some of the best stargazing opportunities in the area. Off-Roading Paradise Calling all thrill-seekers! Desert Mirage Retreat is perfectly located near an extensive network of off-road trails. Whether you’re riding ATVs, dirt bikes, or 4x4 vehicles, the varied terrain of sandy washes, hills, and open desert provides endless opportunities for adventure. It’s a dream destination for those looking to explore the desert on wheels. Customize Your Camping Experience This is a BYOG (Bring Your Own Gear) site, allowing you to create your own adventure. Pitch a tent, park your overland rig, or sleep directly under the stars—the choice is yours. With wide-open spaces, you’ll find plenty of room to set up camp and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the desert. Prime Location Located near historic Route 66, Desert Mirage Retreat offers a blend of remote tranquility and convenient access. Oro Grande is a short drive away, where you can explore charming shops and attractions like Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate nearby hiking trails, the Mojave River, and countless scenic viewpoints. Why Choose Desert Mirage Retreat? Experience the Mojave Desert’s stunning beauty. Explore off-roading trails and open terrain. Enjoy peaceful camping far from city distractions. Discover nearby landmarks and attractions. Whether you’re an adventurer, stargazer, or weekend wanderer, Desert Mirage Retreat is the perfect place to disconnect and reconnect with nature. Pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and make unforgettable memories in Oro Grande’s breathtaking desert landscape.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Offroad - California City & Cantil

16. Offroad - California City & Cantil

26mi from Harper Dry Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
I have 21 acres of raw land, plus another 2.5 acres further north. I have personally camped on it a couple of times. The majority of the land is flat with sagebrush and rises about 15 feet at one end. It is a pie-shaped piece of property; the point area is the highest part and offers great views from the top. All of the land is extremely quiet. There are hard-packed DG roads leading all the way to the property (see maps). The property sits approximately 1/4 mile from Point “B” on the California City Off-Road Vehicle Trails—straight down Temple Road from the property to Point B. California City does require permits for off-road riding. If you choose not to ride, the property is very quiet and makes for a great getaway. I use Cricket for cell service and get five bars out there. The property is also approximately 2.5 miles from Highway 395, yet I don’t see or hear anything from the highway. There are no facilities on the property. Showers and dumping stations are located further down Twenty Mule Team Road, approximately 10–15 miles away (not exactly sure). There is a small store there as well. From the property to the center of California City is approximately 17 miles. The ground is mostly decomposed granite with some small boulders and lots of sagebrush, usually spaced about 12 feet apart. Roads and trails run along all three sides of the property. At night, you can see practically every star in the sky—there’s no light pollution. When I was there, it was so quiet I had to turn on music at a low volume because otherwise it felt too quiet. Please feel free to ask any questions. Thanks, Gregg
Pets
from 
$43
 / night
VVGMC TAILGATE

17. VVGMC TAILGATE

100%
(4)
27mi from Harper Dry Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿🏡 Escape to the Serene Beauty of VVGMC TAILGATE 🏡🌿 Introducing our newest listing: VVGMC TAILGATE Acres, your private oasis in the heart of California! 🌄✨ Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, planning an event, or looking for the perfect wedding venue, we've got you covered. 🌟 PRIVATE RENTALS AVAILABLE 🌟 Starting at just $100/day, immerse yourself in nature's embrace with our private rental options. Relax, unwind, and create lasting memories in the picturesque countryside. 🌳🌻 🎉 EVENTS & RETREATS 🎉 VVGMC TAILGATE is the ideal setting for your next event or retreat. From corporate getaways to intimate gatherings, our versatile venue can be tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you create an unforgettable experience! 🌿💼 💍 WEDDINGS MADE MAGICAL 💍 Say "I do" surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Lo Fi Country Acres. Our stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. Get in touch with our dedicated staff to start planning your special day. 💞✨ 🌼 AMENITIES TAILORED TO YOU 🌼 We believe in making your experience truly unique. Customizable amenities are available upon request, from catering services to event coordination. Let us bring your vision to life! 🏡 LONG-TERM TENANCY 🏡 Fall in love with the tranquility of VVGMC TAILGATE Acres year-round. We welcome long-term tenants looking to make our haven their home. Discover the joy of living amidst nature's splendor. 🏕️🌅 📆 Availability: Until November 2024 📲 Contact us now to reserve your dates, discuss your event needs, or inquire about long-term tenancy. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to escape to Lo Fi Country Acres! 🌿✨ 📍 Location: UNDISCLOSED 💻 Website: UNDISCLOSED 📞 Phone: UNDISCLOSED 📧 Email: UNDISCLOSED Escape to serenity at #VVGMCTAILGATE 🌿💫
Pets
Campfires
from 
$8
 / night
VVGMC TAILGATE

18. VVGMC TAILGATE

27mi from Harper Dry Lake · 67 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Delight view of the mountains, peace and quite. Great for RV parking. There is a flat carved out great for driving onto the land. This is a perfect getaway, plenty time to BBQ. Great pricing. We host events on the property and allow others to rent the space for events. Tailgating highly recommended This listing photos in Apple Valley, VVGMC TAILGATE,
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$19
 / night
Desert Stargazers Dream

19. Desert Stargazers Dream

89%
(14)
28mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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
Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

20. Cosmos Starry Nights Camping

100%
(1)
30mi from Harper Dry Lake · 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

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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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