The best camping in Red Rock Canyon State Park, CA

32mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA

(1)

Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.

Kernville Ranch

36mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Kernville, CA

(20)

Nestled in meadows with a private river flowing through horse pastures, tall shade trees and all natural cedar hot tub. Kernville Ranch is just a 5 minute walk from the center of Kernville. Plenty of fishing and white water rafting, hiking and hot springs and snow play depending on the season. Explore the lake for water-sports, the high country for pristine wilderness and a little snow. The town is full of restaurants, antiques stores, and a wonderful museum of the rich heritage of this Wild West town,

Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat

88%

(76)

47mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Elizabeth Lake, CA

Discover Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat, a premier camping, overlanding, and RV destination nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Our quaint and peaceful campsite offers a tranquil escape under the expansive celestial canopy, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and RV travelers. Nearby Attractions: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve (4 mi): Stunning wildflowers and trails. Lake Hughes (10 mi): Fishing, hiking, scenic views. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park (12 mi): Iconic Joshua Trees. Campsite Features: Our five spacious campsites each include a solar lamp, space for tents or RVs (Campervans, Trucks, Class B RVs), and access to a shared outhouse. Discover Local Flora and Fauna: During daylight, soak in the beauty of the Mojave Desert's natural landscape. Watch out for the local wildlife like quail, roadrunners, and jackrabbits. As night cloaks the desert, you're presented with a mesmerizing spectacle of a starlit sky, making it a dream location for stargazers. During the spring you will be immersed in a sea of wildflowers.Unique Photo Opportunity: Capture memories at our whimsical 'Portal to Nowhere'—a freestanding doorframe set against the desert backdrop. Amenities & Tips: Please note, our amenities are basic to preserve the authentic charm of the surroundings. There no fire pits on site, and we encourage campers to bring along any additional necessities, including extra lighting, for their comfort. We do have a shared outhouse. Stargazing Highlight: Magic Portal sits within a designated dark sky zone, one of the closest to Los Angeles. Experience unmatched celestial views nightly. Reserve your adventure at Magic Portal Stargazer's Retreat today!

Desert Stargazers Dream

88%

(13)

20mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 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.

Happy Gray Coyote

98%

(47)

18mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 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.

Underworld Farms

86%

(43)

36mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kernville, CA

Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as our son's 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS

Diamond Acres Camp 🏕

96%

(24)

27mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Weldon, CA

Diamond Acres is a quiet, secluded camp in the Kern River Valley just minutes from Lake Isabella, the mighty Kern River, and Southern Sierras! We offer glamping sites (tent or trailer) with hot showers and flushing toilets! Come enjoy the solitude and stars. Our camp overlooks miles of rolling hills with no houses in view! Skip the crowded campgrounds and glamp comfortably while only being 5 minutes from Lake Isabella! Take a short walk to the top of the property and enjoy some of the best sunsets you've ever seen! We are close to the Kern River, OHV trails, hot springs, hiking, kayaking, fishing, boating, paragliding, and so much more!

Robison Ranch

26mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Inyokern, CA

(2)

Just off Highway 395, beneath the eastern Sierras, sits a former racehorse training facility with sweeping views of both the resident horses and surrounding mountains. The property features a horse courtyard and open, undeveloped land for camping—peaceful, quiet, and perfect for slowing down. Stargazing is encouraged, with dark skies that truly shine. An outhouse with a toilet and sink is available on-site for campers’ use.

Bare All Retreat

88%

(43)

27mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Caliente, CA

Welcome to our 138-acre ranch and farm, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of our mountainous landscape. With a creek running through the front and steep mountains in the rear, our property offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the many old gold miners trails that crisscross our land, now perfect for horseback riding and OHV adventures. Our working ranch and farm provide a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to observe and participate in farm activities. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle roaming the area, adding to the rustic charm of our mountainous terrain. Discover hidden valleys with seasonal waterfalls and year-round springs, offering peaceful retreats and refreshing natural beauty. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, relaxation by the creek, or a glimpse into rural life on the farm, our 138-acre property has something for everyone to enjoy amidst the serene beauty of nature.

Other options near Red Rock Canyon State Park

Frandy Park Campground

37mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 106 sites · Kernville, CA

(1)

Frandy Park Campground stands out as a premier destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable camping experience in Kernville, California, thanks to its stunning location along the Kern River, surrounded by majestic oak woodlands and steep hillsides. This unique setting offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including back-in and pull-thru sites with water and electric hookups, as well as ample space for tent camping. Guests can take advantage of our many amenities, such as complimentary WiFi, a convenient dump station, clean showers, and outdoor games to enhance their stay. At Frandy Park, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities. Enjoy volleyball, tennis, and horseshoes, or venture out for kayaking, swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're here to paddle down the river, explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest, or simply unwind in nature, Frandy Park is the ideal campground in the Kern River Valley. We look forward to welcoming you for a night or two of relaxation and adventure!

Potable water

24mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 107 sites · Ridgecrest, CA

Panamint Springs Resort

Nestled in the stunning Panamint Valley within Death Valley National Park, Panamint Springs Resort stands out as a charming, rustic getaway that offers a unique blend of western-style hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. This small resort is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat, featuring comfortable lodging options, camping sites, and RV services to accommodate all types of travelers. Guests can indulge in delicious meals at the on-site restaurant and bar, while the well-stocked general store and gas station ensure that all your essentials are within reach. The resort's picturesque location provides marvelous views of the distant sand dunes and the majestic Panamint Mountains, which soar to an impressive 11,000 feet, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation and leisure dining. Conveniently situated just 10 miles from the western edge of Death Valley National Park along California Scenic Highway 190, Panamint Springs Resort serves as an excellent base for exploring the park's diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, stargazing, and discovering nearby natural wonders. Whether you're looking for adventure or a serene escape, this resort offers a memorable experience in one of the most captivating landscapes in California.

Potable water

49mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Lancaster, CA

Shady Elms Mobile Home & RV Park

Shady Elms RV & Trailer Park in Lancaster, California, stands out for its serene, shaded environment that provides a perfect retreat for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. With 67 spacious sites equipped with full hookups, guests can enjoy the comforts of home while surrounded by nature. This welcoming park features amenities such as cable TV and telephone access, ensuring that you stay connected during your stay. Long-term residents will appreciate the availability of dedicated spaces, while overnight travelers are warmly welcomed. For added convenience, the park offers mailboxes for long-term guests, clean bathrooms, and showers for those staying briefly, as well as coin-operated laundry facilities. Whether you're looking to explore nearby attractions or simply relax in a peaceful setting, Shady Elms RV & Trailer Park is an ideal choice for your next getaway. Enjoy the blend of comfort and nature that makes this campground a unique destination in Lancaster.

33mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Lake Isabella, CA

Haven RV Park

Nestled directly across from the picturesque Lake Isabella, our RV park stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. Just a short stroll away, you'll find local favorites like Starbucks and a variety of popular restaurants, making it easy to enjoy both relaxation and dining. Lake Isabella RV Park is the perfect choice for extended stays, camping, RV storage, and manufactured home living. With breathtaking views of the lake, our park provides access to a wealth of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating. Our modern amenities ensure a comfortable experience for RV enthusiasts, long-term campers, and individuals looking for serene manufactured home spaces. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, Lake Isabella RV Park offers a unique combination of tranquility and adventure, making it the ideal spot for your next outdoor escape.

44mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Pearsonville, CA

Kennedy Meadows Campground

Nestled along the scenic Pacific Crest Trail and adjacent to the picturesque South Fork of the Kern River, Kennedy Meadows Campground stands out as a serene retreat surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of the South Sierra, Golden Trout, and Domeland. This unique location offers campers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the tranquility of the great outdoors. The campground features 37 sites, many of which are shaded by beautiful juniper and pinion trees, providing a perfect blend of comfort and privacy. Each site accommodates vehicles up to 30 feet in length, making it accessible for a variety of camping setups. In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Kennedy Meadows serves as a gateway to numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, and nearby swimming holes, ensuring a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. The area also boasts local restaurants and shops, allowing campers to enjoy delicious meals and pick up any essentials during their stay. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Kennedy Meadows Campground is an ideal destination for your next outdoor getaway.

37mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Kernville, CA

Kern River Sequioa RV Resort

Discover a unique camping experience just steps away from the breathtaking Kern River, where nature's beauty meets top-notch accommodations. Picture yourself relaxing under the shade of lush trees on a warm, sunny day, with the soothing sounds of the river flowing nearby and a refreshing breeze to keep you cool. With over 70 stunning sites available, you can choose the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Kern River Valley. Our campground offers a diverse selection of accommodations, including river and creek sites, full hookup sites, and cozy cabins. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with fire pits, BBQs, picnic tables, and WiFi, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, all sites provide easy access to the river, making it simple to enjoy the great outdoors. The Kern River Valley is a year-round playground for adventure enthusiasts. In the spring and early summer, the river's thrilling rapids attract adrenaline seekers, with local rafting companies offering exciting level 4 and 5 experiences. As the season progresses, the river becomes ideal for tubing and swimming, perfect for families and friends looking to cool off. Additionally, the valley boasts hundreds of hiking and biking trails, allowing you to explore the stunning landscape at your own pace. With nearby restaurants and shops,

40mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tehachapi, CA

Indian Hill Ranch Campground

Indian Hill Ranch stands out as a unique campground due to its rich historical significance and stunning natural surroundings. Once the home of American Indians, this site features ancient rock mortars on “Indian Hill,” which overlook Brite Creek and the picturesque valley below. This location was favored by the indigenous tribes for its exceptional microclimate, breathtaking views, and abundant resources. Today, visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of this sheltered valley, which is distinct from the well-known winds of Tehachapi. The area is not only beautiful but also offers plentiful water, lush grass, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can explore nearby attractions, including natural swimming holes and various outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. Additionally, the local area boasts charming restaurants and shops, providing ample opportunities for dining and shopping. Indian Hill Ranch is a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern amenities, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

36mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 1 site · Wofford Heights, CA

California Land Management SeRVices Corporation

Discover the unique charm of Vista Recreation, where each campground is designed to provide an unforgettable outdoor experience. From the majestic mountain ranges of California to the tranquil landscapes of Tennessee, our locations cater to adventurers of all kinds, whether you're exploring solo or enjoying time with friends and family. Experience the thrill of river rafting at the base of Mt. Hood in Oregon, cast your line for a fishing adventure along the scenic banks of Wisconsin, or embark on a hike through the breathtaking trails of New Hampshire. We take pride in maintaining our facilities to the highest standards, ensuring that every visit exceeds expectations. At Vista Recreation, we treat each location with the same level of care and dedication, which means that a great experience at one of our parks guarantees a similar adventure at another. Start planning your next outdoor getaway with us and create lasting memories in nature. We are committed to providing you with exceptional experiences in the great outdoors!

39mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 78 sites · Kernville, CA

Kern River's Edge Campground

Kern River's Edge Campground Retreat stands out as a unique destination, nestled along the scenic banks of the Kern River, offering unparalleled access to a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, RV'ing, fishing, and exhilarating whitewater rafting. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,700 feet in a picturesque high-desert setting, our campground features both riverfront RV and tent camping options, ensuring a memorable experience in nature. Our site amenities include a limited number of RV power and water hook-ups, campfire rings equipped with cook-top lids, and picnic tables for your convenience. Throughout the park, you'll find potable water spigots and a shaded pet run, making it easy to enjoy your stay. We take pride in maintaining a clean environment, complete with sparkling restrooms. Our top-rated concierge service includes firewood and ice deliveries upon request, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you. Plus, we welcome pets, so your furry friends can join in on the fun. Guests at Kern River's Edge can enjoy a variety of on-site recreational activities, including horseshoes, shuffleboard, volleyball, and frisbee golf. For those looking to unwind, our shady Grove provides the perfect spot to relax after a day filled with adventures on the Kern

Potable water

25mi from Red Rock Canyon State Park · 28 sites · Ridgecrest, CA

Desert Empire Fair

Discover a unique RV Park nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering a serene retreat for travelers exploring iconic destinations. Conveniently located just off Highways 14, 178, and 395, our full-service RV Park serves as a peaceful stopping point for those journeying to Mount Whitney, Las Vegas, Death Valley, and other remarkable sites in the American Southwest. Situated in Ridgecrest, California, our park is not only a haven for vacationers but also a vibrant hub for military personnel, aerospace professionals, and students intrigued by the ancient petroglyphs. Whether you're passing through or planning an extended stay, our facilities include a 24/7 dump station, potable water, and the convenience of accepting all major credit cards. Enjoy the tranquility of our spacious grounds, where privacy and comfort are prioritized. With easy access to nearby natural features, swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, as well as local restaurants and shops, our RV Park is the perfect base for your adventures. For more information about our RV Park, click here.

Showers

The best camping in Red Rock Canyon State Park, CA guide

Overview

About

With its jagged red-and-white-striped canyons, soaring cliffs, and dusty trails, it’s little surprise that Red Rock Canyon State Park has a host of Hollywood Westerns (plus a Destiny’s Child music video) on its resumé. If you’re not here as cast or crew, you’ve probably come for the trails, and movie-worthy views await at every turn. Saddle up for a horseback ride, bring your OTV, or enjoy a scenic hike beneath dramatic rock formations. Campers can sleep beneath the stars (the canyon is a renowned stargazing spot) at Ricardo Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

The 50 campsites at Ricardo Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
The campground can fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays—plan to arrive on a Thursday evening or early Friday morning to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Day-trippers and campers flock to Red Rock Canyon State Park from spring through fall, and popular trails can get crowded, especially on weekends. Summer temperatures can reach 100°F, so come prepared with plenty of water and avoid hiking through the hottest time of the day. Our advice? Visit in spring when wildflowers bloom through the desert valleys, or in fall, when the mild weather is ideal for hiking.

Know before you go

Red Rock Canyon State Park is on Highway 14, 25 miles northeast of Mojave or about a 25-minute drive away. It’s about a 2-hour drive north of Los Angeles.
Daily parking fees and camping fees are charged at the state park.
Facilities at Red Rock Canyon State Park include a visitor center, restrooms, and picnic tables. Ricardo Campground has pit toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. There are no electric hookups or showers, and the maximum RV size is 30 feet.
There are accessible campsites, picnic areas, and restrooms at Red Rock Canyon.

Nearby attractions

Embark on a unique camping adventure amidst the otherworldly landscape of Trona Pinnacles. Set up camp near the towering Tufa formations, explore the ancient fossil beds, and stargaze under clear night skies.

98%

22 ratings · 17 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Awesome!

Amazing views enjoyed our stay here it was peaceful and quiet at nigh!

Felipe S.

8 months on Hipcamp

September 2019

An easy to get to (no 4wd needed) and very clean campground. The trais are as beautiful as the drive in, and really close to the camp sites. I've camped here twice, both times on week days. The first trip there were only a handful of people staying at the campground. The next time I went I had the whole place to myself. It can get quite windy, so be sure to bring extra stakes and set up your tent as close to a rock wall as you can. This is a great place for stargazers, for those with an interest in geology, and anyone who wants to submerge themselves in silence.

Forrest M.

6 years on Hipcamp

July 2019

Rolled in about 1:30 a.m. on June 29th. A sign on the gate said the campground was closed, and only open September through mid-June. We had to scramble to find an (illegal) place to crash for the night! BE FORWARNED THAT THE CAMP SEEMS TO NOT BE OPEN IN THE SUMMER MONTHS! :-(

John S.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2019

It gets very windy at times as this campground is located out in the desert.

Cassidy B.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2019

Obvious, but wear sunscreen.

Chris H.

7 years on Hipcamp

December 2017

I camped at Ricardo Campground just recently during the winter. I went on a Sunday and stayed there for 3 days. No one was really there except for 2 other groups. The campground wasn’t difficult to find and there are a lot of campsites to choose from. It’s very peaceful and the hikes weren’t that long. The best part of the campground is that it’s really close to a lot of the trails and you can go off trail if you want to. The weather was nice when I went but temperatures dropped to about 15F at night. So it’s best to bring comfy gear when you go camping. Also, it’s really dusty due to it being in the desert so make sure you bring a lot of wipes or thing to keep you clean if you don’t like the dust.

Audrey T.

8 years on Hipcamp

June 2017

This campground was amazing and will hold lasting memories for us. The way the sites back up to their own private rock formations make the spots seem intimate. Hiking though the area is nice and offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Ann Marie S.

2 reviews

March 2017

Found this place on Hipcamp when driving from Yosemite toward Death Valley. Perfect one-night stopover spot. Camp Sstes are nice (tho kinda close together), toilet was the cleanest I've ever used in a state park, and scenery is amazing. 👍👍

Tim F.

11 years on Hipcamp

January 2016

This is one of my favorite sites 2 hrs outside of LA! Close enough so it's easy to convince friends to join for the weekend :) It's so great for exploring. Lots of caves to wander into, and such crazy formations.

Kelsey T.

2 reviews

October 2015

Unfortunately with the military bases nearby, southern looking star gazing is washed out in the glowing haze. It's a typically quiet campground close to Los Angeles, that offers a great run of OHV trails. Avoid Joshua Tree crowds, and spend a night here during the spring.

Michael W.

10 years on Hipcamp

July 2015