The best camping near Bristol Lake, CA

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

Camper favorites near Bristol Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

97%
(318)
37mi from Bristol Lake · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · Joshua Tree, CA
Welcome to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your go-to destination for a unique and memorable camping experience in Joshua Tree. This family-owned and operated park offers breathtaking views from its 2,300 ft elevation, showcasing the beauty of the Mojave Desert and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Joshua Tree Lake RV and Campground has something for everyone. With panoramic views of the North face of Joshua Tree National Park, the ancient Copper Mountain Hills to the North and East, and exceptional desert vistas, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes wherever you look. Office Hours: 8:30 - 8 Sunday - Thursday 8:30 - 9 Friday and Saturday Check-in Begins at 12 PM. Checkout is at 11 AM. The campground is situated on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert and boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. With clear, unpolluted skies, you can enjoy the magnificent night skies and immerse yourself in the beauty of the stars. We want to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so please take note of the following guidelines: Swimming is not permitted in the lake and there is no swimming pool available. Fishing is currently closed. Pet owners will be pleased to know that their furry friends are welcome, but there will be an additional fee added to the reservation. Wi-Fi is provided by a third-party company and a separate service fee applies. Please note that we cannot guarantee the speed, rate, or troubleshooting of the Wi-Fi service. For your convenience, a wash station for dishes is available on-site, and the Joshua Tree Laundromat is located 9 miles away in downtown Joshua Tree. For campfires, it is important to keep them contained inside the designated burn barrels and never leave them unattended. In the event of high winds, campfire, and BBQ use may be suspended for safety reasons. So, pack your gear and head to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your favorite place to stay while you play in Joshua Tree. Experience the magic of the Mojave Desert and all its natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Pets
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from 
$15
 / night

Shangri-la Stargazer Labyrinth

98%
(45)
40mi from Bristol Lake · 3 sites · Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA
Escape to Shangri-la... Your serene desert retreat in Joshua Tree, where endless views and stunning, star-filled skies await. Nestled against acres of pristine BLM land, this unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sactuary. Experience tranquility as you walk the meditative circuits of a Cretan Labyrinth, connecting with nature in this truly special location. Relax with a game of giant chess or let your competitive streak out with a game of bocce ball or cornhole. If you think you're hearing waterfalls and ducks in the desert, it's because you are...you're hearing my nearby duck/zen pond. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. This is camping so BRING YOUR OWN LINENS and there's no power, water or utilities which means DO NOT USE the bathroom/shower in the campers. There is an outhouse and outdoor shower with 5 gallon sunshower bag. 10% discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
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$33
 / night

The Castle House: Estate

95%
(877)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA
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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$66
 / night

Stargazer Cabin

98%
(53)
41mi from Bristol Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Landers, CA
Escape to serenity in the Mojave at a beautifully renovated cabin on 2.5 fully fenced acres in north Joshua Tree, a.k.a. Landers, where endless sunrise views and stunning, star-filled skies await. This unique Hipcamp offers a peaceful sanctuary. Experience tranquility as you connect with nature in this truly special location. Perfect for stargazers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. Relax and unwind under the stars in the hot tub or sway gently in the hammock chairs as your troubles fade away. Enjoy a crackling fire while stargazing and listening to the sounds of coyotes howling in the distance. Unexplained lights in the skies? Top secret aircraft from the nearby military base or interplanetary visitors perhaps...or both? This is NOT a shared space so you will have the entire property all to yourself. Enjoy! 10% Discount off the nightly rate for Military, Veterans and First Responders.
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$162
 / night

Coyote Hideaway | WOW view✨

99%
(51)
39mi from Bristol Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Joshua Tree, CA
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!
Pets
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from 
$165
 / night

NowHere Drive Inn

92%
(111)
32mi from Bristol Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · CA
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature with our camping experience at a beautiful 5-acre piece of land near Joshua Tree National Park. Our campground is perfect for artists, couples, or first-time campers looking for a rustic and affordable getaway. Our Camp Features: - Campgrounds with vintage campers and structures - Basic amenities provided: communal area with shade, tubs for cooling off, and a bath tub (wood heating required). - Camping experience without electricity: embrace off-grid living. Solar lights and lanterns for lights. Portable batteries available for charging devices. -Propane stove provided for cooking. French press available with Coffee & Tea (please bring drinking water). Kitchen essentials like pots & pans, utensils etc provided. - Propane shower (hot water) available in the common lounge area - Bring your own sleeping bags and blankets (check the weather prior to arrival) We are happy to provide extra blankets, just ask! - Peaceful and secluded location, only 15 minutes from the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. - Ideal for those seeking a simple and affordable camping experience Please note that this is camping, not glamping, so come prepared for a back-to-nature adventure. Join us for a unique and immersive outdoor experience at our cozy campground.
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from 
$58
 / night

The best camping near Bristol Lake, CA 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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