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The best camping near Bristol Lake, CA

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Discover the stark beauty of Bristol Lake amid the Mojave Desert. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bristol Lake adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Bristol Lake

Roy's Motel & Cafe

1. Roy's Motel & Cafe

94%
(18)
7.7mi from Bristol Lake · 31 sites · Tents, RVs
We're located on the Historic ROUTE 66 about 20 minutes from the vast Mojave Desert and 5 minutes from the Amboy Crater. We've been feature in endless movies, music videos, commercials, documentaries, You Tube videos, and we have a huge presence on all of your social media platforms. You'll also find about 4 doz craft sodas and XL custom root beer floats. You can also call us "The Ghost Town That Ain't Dead Yet" Just Google us and you'll see....
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5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

2. 5+ Acres near Joshua Tree NP

100%
(23)
21mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site
Luxury Low-Toxin Desert Retreat Near Joshua Tree 🌵✨ Private 5-Star Stay Immerse yourself in the Mojave Desert just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. This private five acre retreat offers panoramic mountain views, total seclusion, and the perfect blend of serenity and adventure for hiking, rock collecting, and exploring vast desert landscapes. 🌿 Clean Low-Toxin Environment No synthetic fragrances, harsh cleaning chemicals, or conventional laundry detergents. All water is reverse osmosis filtered and remineralized. Natural paper products throughout. A subtle but noticeable difference. ⭐️ “The most peaceful and scenic stay we have ever had. The desert sunrise was magical.” Recent Guest ⸻ 🏕 What Makes This Stay Special ✅ Luxury Lotus Belle tent with queen Tempur Pedic mattress ✅ Private bathroom and outdoor shower ✅ Kitchenette and pizza oven ✅ Gas fireplace and outdoor fire pit ✅ High speed WiFi, projector with Fire Stick, Bluetooth speaker ✅ Telescope and binoculars for stargazing ✅ Outdoor sectional, hammocks, and hanging chair ✅ 10 foot stock tank pool spring through fall ✅ Luxury toiletries, blow dryer, washing machine ✅ Free parking for two cars ✅ Reverse osmosis drinking water with added minerals ⸻ 🌄 Things to Do • Hiking and rock collecting • Yoga and meditation • Photography and wildlife viewing • Stargazing and fireside nights ⸻ 🔒 Privacy Two campsites on five acres with over 1000 feet of separation. No shared spaces. Quiet, private, and uninterrupted. ⸻ ⚠️ Good to Know This is the desert. Wildlife and sudden weather including wind or sandstorms can occur. Nature may appear unexpectedly. No air conditioning. Heating includes fireplace and electric blanket. Pool available for cooling seasonally. PLEASE CHECK WEATHER BEFORE BOOKING ⸻ 🌅 The Experience A refined desert stay designed for comfort, privacy, and connection to the landscape.
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Wonder Valley Ranch

3. Wonder Valley Ranch

97%
(43)
22mi from Bristol Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
A private 5 acres of desert wilderness, bordering thousands of acres of BLM land and the Cleghorn Wilderness area. It offers immense seclusion, 360 degrees of uninterrupted desert vistas, yet only 20 mins away to an entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. This secluded corner in Wonder Valley is perfect to socially distance, stargaze, recharge, or do nothing at all. The nearest neighbors are at least 200 yards away.
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Joshua Tree Container Resort

4. Joshua Tree Container Resort

96%
(208)
26mi from Bristol Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Custom designed by artist John Henry Jones, the Ranch House is the largest and most private suite at the Joshua Tree Container Resort, and has a large screened in front porch giving our guests a safe way to recreate in the outdoors in Theis desert wilderness area. Two queen beds are available inside the history-laden ranch house (originally homesteaded during the WWI era). It is steps away from the hot tub, pool, gym, hammock palapa and great lounging spots on the ranch.
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@mojavecountryclub

5. @mojavecountryclub

100%
(14)
26mi from Bristol Lake · 2 sites
Mojave Country Club - Escape to five acres of fun, family-friendly, and pet-friendly luxury glamping just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. Tucked away in a secluded nook, five minutes from Twentynine Palms, and 10 minutes away from Joshua Tree National Park...the Mojave Country Club blends comfort, convenience, and high-desert wonder into one unforgettable stay. Come relax, recharge, play, explore, hike, wander hidden trails, stargaze under endless skies, sip a cold beer in the sun, or sink into a hammock and let time slow down. Our clubhouse (open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight) is the heart of MCC life, with a full indoor kitchen, two private bathrooms, a cozy TV lounge, indoor dining area, with plenty of space for you and your crew to hangout, and an outdoor bbq and a 6-person hot tub to soak in. Amenities include: - 3-person driving range - 6-person hot tub - Private bathrooms - Hot showers - High-speed WiFi - Horseshoe pits - Hammocks - Hanging chairs - Shady spaces to unwind Surrounded by hundreds of acres of open land, it’s easy to explore right from camp or venture further with one of our golf cart rentals ($100/day). For added ease, guests can book our private shuttle service for local drop-offs, pick-ups, or tours through town or scenic drives through the national park. Come glamp with us for a real high-desert experience...exclusive, adventurous, and endlessly welcoming.
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"Apocalypse Wow"- Tent Site

6. "Apocalypse Wow"- Tent Site

95%
(21)
30mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
This open camp tent area is owned by (and was/is built by) the former HGTV host of the show "Tiny House Builders". The site also houses a "wooden tent" or micro glamping pod named "The Little Lantern" (a second listing) that is fun to check out, take pix of, store gear in- the structures serve as windbreaks and shade walls for tent campers and you can hang out on the benches near them, use their fire pits, and so on. The owner is also the author of several design and budget-build/reuse books (the bestseller "Micro Shelters" and others). Decades back this land was the site of an old RV park, so we've been in the long process of cleaning it up and removing junk from some corners of the site- but a bit still remains (its NOT pristine- still in the works). As a result you'll find some cool, weird, and unusual detritus and salvage out here (but not so much close to the camp spots)- old car parts, industrial knobs and dials- feel free to explore. Camp at your own risk though if you wander off to check this stuff out. The immediate camping area is cleared/clean. This has made it a favorite spot for junk collectors and photographers (we've found everything from old coins, to actual silver, cool rocks/geodes, and vintage car parts). This place would also make for a great spot for video or fashion shoots (which aren't allowed unless you seek separate permission from us!). Its a dirt site, but easy to get into, easy to pull into and turn around in (even with an RV), and you basically have about 5 acres all to yourself in most cases. There is one other camp site on the property (two total- the little lantern, and the van area for tenting- they are separate and spread out). Note: As I'm not sure of the current hip camp/country standings (new vague rules), I had removed this listing/put it on "hold", but it keeps going live/not adjusting- for that reason I'm just going to keep it live and allow people to book/stay until things are figured out by hip camp (so as not to inconvenience anyone).
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Desert Gold Camp near JT Ntl Park

7. Desert Gold Camp near JT Ntl Park

98%
(58)
30mi from Bristol Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:Best of what the desert offers - rustic and romantic! Three miles to Joshua Tree National Park entrance and town amenities, yet secluded with amazing views over many acres. This 100 yr old property has inspiring landscapes and historic gold mill artifacts, and is used for films, photoshoots, and artist gatherings.
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Cozy Retreat in Joshua Tree

8. Cozy Retreat in Joshua Tree

97%
(155)
34mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site
Escape the chaos of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of our tiny cabin in Joshua Tree. Step into a world of rustic charm as you enter our thoughtfully designed cabin, where every inch has been crafted to provide comfort and serenity. Our little cabin sits on 5 acres available for you to Immerse yourself in the soothing ambience of the desert, with panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape right at your doorstep. Book your stay now and experience the harmony of nature and serenity like never before.
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Copper Moon Camp in Joshua Tree

9. Copper Moon Camp in Joshua Tree

90%
(107)
35mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Copper Moon is a peaceful spot of raw land in the rolling hills and mountains of Joshua Tree, California. It represents the dreams and limitless possibilities of two best friends and their journey in life. The joy that is felt on Copper Moon land is part of the legacy of friendship, love and God's beautiful blessing of nature. Come and enjoy! Learn more about this land:Sleep under the stars in Beautiful Joshua Tree, California. Copper Moon is across the highway from Joshua Tree national park and up a dirt road from Joshua Tree Lake. Beautiful, unobstructed view of the desert landscape. 
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Tammy Reeves

10. Tammy Reeves

96%
(418)
36mi from Bristol Lake · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Simply Camping is a great place to come appreciate, respect and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mojave Desert!  It is a blessing to own this amazing property in Joshua Tree for all to come and enjoy the wonderful stars at night and the breath taking sunrise and sunsets! We look forward to greeting you!
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The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

11. The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

95%
(51)
37mi from Bristol Lake · 6 sites
Joshua Tree Lake RV partnered with Hostel Cubed to create a mini glamping destination in our beautiful Siesta Circle! Using modular structures with minimal impact on Mother Earth, Hostel Cubed creates experiences in nature that combine the social culture of a hostel with innovative design in a community-driven atmosphere. After a stellar day exploring Joshua Tree, cool off in your Air Conditioned cabin, play with the ducks lakeside, roast some s'mores, or gaze at the Milky Way as you recharge for another memorable day in Joshua Tree. Our family-owned and operated outdoor experience offers charismatic desert scapes & vistas from our 2,300 ft elevation, giving you outstanding sightlines to Mt San Jacinto, Mt San Gorgonio and the North face of Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground is located at the southern edge of the Mojave Desert - offering exceptional desert vistas and spectacular night skies.
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Private 40-Acre Off-Grid Retreat

12. Private 40-Acre Off-Grid Retreat

94%
(61)
37mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Important: This is a remote, unlit desert property. Arrival before dark is strongly recommended unless you are already familiar with the area. This is an intentionally off-grid, private desert retreat for guests who value space, silence, dark skies, and solitude. You are renting the entire 40-acre property — there is only one campsite, and it is exclusively yours. There are no toilets, no water, no electricity, and no artificial lighting. This is a self-contained desert experience, not a campground. What is here: A large handcrafted wooden deck A handmade stone fire ring A 12-foot solid wood picnic table Exceptional stargazing with minimal light pollution Forty acres of private desert bordered by empty parcels and public land This property is best suited for experienced campers, vanlifers, RVs, Airstreams, and tent campers who are comfortable navigating dirt roads and practicing Leave No Trace ethics. It is not suitable for first-time campers or guests seeking amenities or on-site assistance. Off-leash dogs are welcome. Please clean up after them so this policy can remain in place. Guests must bring their own water, use a self-contained toilet system (pack out all waste), and pack out all trash. Desert conditions change rapidly — wind, heat, and cold are all possible. Four-wheel drive is recommended, though many standard vehicles and RVs have accessed the property by driving slowly and carefully. If a vehicle becomes stuck, guests are responsible for arranging their own towing. This is unfenced private land bordering public Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. On rare occasions, someone may mistakenly pass through assuming the land is public. This has always been resolved easily by letting them know they are on private property. Located at the base of Copper Mountain, the property offers wildlife sightings, panoramic views, and generally good cell service despite the remote feel. Drive times: Hwy 62 (8 min), Downtown Joshua Tree & Farmers Market (11 min), Joshua Tree National Park entrance (19 min), Indian Cove (16 min), Pioneertown (29 min). If you are seeking a quiet, expansive, off-grid desert retreat, this land offers something increasingly rare. — Amanda & Mario
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Angel's spot

13. Angel's spot

94%
(77)
38mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
I love this beautiful desert so I bought a small piece for myself. Enjoy peace and quiet with the privacy camping with only your group. This property is located on a hillside over the dry lake bed so the views are awesome. 420 friendly. Located in the dry lake bed but close to Joshua National Park.
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JT High desert Hideout

14. JT High desert Hideout

99%
(83)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 4 sites
This place exemplifies what is magic about Joshua Tree. The sites are fun and electric. We are on 2 5 acres of western style ranch. Views from the pool deck. Fun horseshoes, movie theater, pool table, and stargazing. Close to Joshua Tree Natl Park. Beautiful views of Big Bear Mtn. Close to the Integraton. Dog friendly
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Milky Way Stay

15. Milky Way Stay

98%
(129)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
If you looking for Serenity and Seclusion under the amazing Joshua Tree night sky, amazing sunsets/sunrises, surrounded by mountains in the distance, you’ve found it!! If you have yet to experience the healing, recharging that comes from unwinding in the desert, well you can find that and so much more on our land. You and your guests will have 2.3 acres all to yourself. Our land perimeter has been fenced, therefore you will not have to worry about knowing if you are in the right spot, or others invading your space. It may sound like I’m just being extra :), but once you spend a night or two here you will know exactly what I mean about the healing that can be found here. Come enjoy the peace that comes from being engulfed by God’s amazing creation.
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The Castle House: Estate

16. The Castle House: Estate

95%
(931)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary. Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert. Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property. But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!Campers will be required to complete a check-in waiver before the date of their stay - providing a valid ID, DOB, and address.
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Coyote Hideaway | WOW view✨

17. Coyote Hideaway | WOW view✨

99%
(65)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Joshua Tree Desert Glampsite Discover a magical, 5-acre glampsite nestled in the desert, featuring two private cabins that offer stunning views of BLM land and the majestic mountains of Joshua Tree National Park. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and starry nights in this secluded oasis, perfect for both adventure and relaxation. Cabin accommodations: Choose to book a single cabin (Sleeps 2) Or Add additional cabin (Sleeps 2) for reservations of 4. Note: Up to 2 children under 12 can stay in the main cabin (an inflatable mattress can be provided upon request). Pet Policy: Pets Welcome 🐾 $45 cleaning fee Amenities Include: •Private hot tub •Bathroom with flushing toilet and shower in each •cabin •Outdoor shower •Fire pit •Keurig coffee machine •Outdoor propane grill (propane included) •Linens and one towel per person included •Extra air mattress available upon request Location: Just 10 minutes (6 miles) from the park's visitor center, with access to hiking trails right from your cabin. For a unique desert experience, whether for climbing, hiking, or a serene retreat, this glampsite is the perfect getaway. Book your escape today!
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Tranquil Joshua Tree Getaway 🔭

18. Tranquil Joshua Tree Getaway 🔭

98%
(33)
40mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hello campers! Welcome to our peaceful retreat in Joshua Tree, California. I'm thrilled to share this slice of paradise with fellow nature enthusiasts. As your host, I strive to provide a serene camping experience just minutes away from the town of Joshua Tree and a short drive to the park entrance. Our property offers a tranquil setting for tent camping, where you can immerse yourself in nature under the starlit sky. Please bring all your camping equipment and remember to leave the site as pristine as you found it. If you need any assistance during your stay, feel free to reach out. Enjoy the tranquility and convenience of being close to town attractions while still having cell service. Skip the hassle of finding a spot in the crowded park and book with us for group camping, van parking, and more. Please note that no utilities are provided on the property. Can't wait to host you!
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Shangri-La in the High Desert

19. Shangri-La in the High Desert

100%
(10)
40mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site
Welcome to our Hillbilly Hideaway, our Shangri-La in the sand! Here you will find a beautifully restored original homestead cabin, with all of the comforts of home. The cabin will sleep 4 comfortably, or 6-7 if you move some stuff around. There's a mini split with heat and AC, an electric fireplace, a fully stocked kitchen and bath, a mini bunk room, a double size bed, and stackable twins. The cabin opens up to a fully fenced compound with fun around every corner! Bounce on the vintage playground bouncers, swing on the swingset, rope a wooden steer, play horseshoes, or make a campfire. We also have a tiny playhouse, croquet, and bocce. The large back patio features an outdoor kitchenette and bathroom complete with an outdoor shower and cowboy tub! To the left you'll find the boxcar, a yellow dream. She's purdy on the inside with a loft bed and two twins, and dining table with chandelier. To the right is Avion, the majestic silver bird. She is every bit original 1983 oak veneer nostalgia. Don't eat the glass grapes! Avion features a full kitchen and bath and sleeps 5. Further over is Dolly the vintage Dalton tin can style trailer. She has no hook ups but there are battery lights and a clean double bed. Set a while on the dirt porch in the shell back chairs and reflect on life. Shangri-La is family, pet, UFO, and kid friendly. Bring 'em all! You will need to self clean this little slice of heaven. There are supplies in the closet and the outbuildings. You'll BYO sheets and towels to make up the beds and bathe, remember to take everything you brought with you, put back the key, and haul out your own trash. The property is well outfitted with cooking supplies and a charcoal barbecue. Welcome! Welcome! Tell your friends! Shangri-La attracts amazing, awakened souls abundant with life force and joy.
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The Sunrise Sanctuary

20. The Sunrise Sanctuary

96%
(150)
40mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site
Get away from the city and get dusty on our beautiful 2.5 acre dreamland. The Sunrise is a bare bones, clean and simple vintage trailer with a bed and storage. There are battery lights but no electricity or hook ups. Live like a yesteryear vaquero- make a fire, stargaze, and be zen. Amenities include an outhouse, a simple changing room/solar shower, picnic table and fire pit. Listen for the coyotes and search out the jackrabbits.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Bristol Lake camping guide

Overview

About

In the rolling desert hills of the Mojave National Preserve, Bristol Lake is a popular vista point for viewing the Bullion and Old Woman Mountains that encircle the now dry expanse where Bristol Lake used to be. 20 minutes from the astonishing Amboy Crater it's definitely worth it to visit both if you are passing through.

When to go

The best time to visit Bristol Lake is during the cooler months from late fall to early spring, when the desert temperature is mild and the winter rains occasionally create a shallow, reflective pool. Summer visits are challenging due to extreme heat.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as the desert climate can be extreme with high temperatures in summer.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen.
  • Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated amid the arid environment.
  • Be mindful of the delicate ecosystem; take only photos and leave only footprints.
  • Visit the BLM website for the latest information on access and any potential closures.

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