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Dispersed Camping

BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area is located near Barstow, California, featuring desert terrain with sparse vegetation. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Calico Ghost Town and the Rainbow Basin Natural Area.

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Location

BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.06188904 N
116.98465255 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area needs a permit.


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Dec. 24, 2024

Quiet location

We stayed here for one night and it was a great spot, really quite. The road was a little rough to get to where we stayed but no issue in our van aside from being a bit bumpy. We stopped about 2 miles from the main road. We arrived in the dark and it was a little tricky to see where we could and couldn't stay. We turned right off the road and found a flat open space with a fire ring. There was nobody else there. In the morning we could see some RVs further along the path and assume this is the proper site but we had no issues staying where we did .

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area by Rose G., December 24, 2024
Reviewed Nov. 24, 2022

Rugged area, super windy

We stayed 3 nights, we might've stayed longer but the wind was terrible. We didn't explore much at all

Siten/a
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area by Jack M., November 24, 2022
Reviewed Jan. 18, 2022

Especially great for off-roaders!

Dirt Biking heaven! Our friends brought their toy-haulers and we played in the desert for a few nights. The weather was pretty good for November. Plenty of space to have 2 RV’s, a van, and a few guests. Definitely head over to Slash-X cafe if you get a chance and grab a beer while listening to live music in the back patio!

Month of VisitNovember
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  • Review photo of BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area by Heather L., January 18, 2022
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Reviewed Nov. 8, 2021

Desert Dispersed Camping

This is a popular camping site for OHV riders during the winter. There are several sites at this location that each can hold 5-7 RVs. Each of the sites has a primitive fire ring, but there is no wood in the area, so bring your own. There are no toilets or water either.

It is the desert, so it gets warm/hot during the summer, but during the fall and winter, it is comfortable and can get cold at night.

The sites are far enough away that the noises of the other sites are not usually a problem, but it can occur. In the mornings, riders can be disturbing as they ride by.

Because of the OHV on weekends and holidays, it can get BUSY. First come, first serve.

For someone passing through, it can be a great one night stop and if you live local it makes a great few days away from the grind.

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area by Mark W., November 8, 2021
  • Review photo of BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area by Mark W., November 8, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Barstow, California camping areas?

The BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area sits at a desert elevation typical of the Mojave region. This elevation contributes to its distinctive desert climate with potentially extreme temperature variations between day and night, particularly during winter months when it's most popular for camping and OHV activities. The relatively flat terrain of the camping area is characteristic of the high desert landscape in this region of Southern California.

How do I find free camping sites near Barstow?

To find free camping at BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area, take the main road and travel approximately 2 miles in where you'll find numerous dispersed sites. The access road can be somewhat rough and bumpy but is generally manageable. Look for primitive fire rings which indicate established camping spots. There are several sites throughout the area that can each hold multiple vehicles. For the best spots, arrive during daylight hours as finding suitable locations can be challenging after dark. Be prepared for self-sufficient camping as there are no facilities, water or toilets available.

Where are the free BLM camping areas near Barstow, CA?

BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area is a free camping area located in the desert outside Barstow, California. This popular dispersed camping location offers multiple sites that can each accommodate 5-7 RVs. The area is especially frequented by OHV and dirt bike enthusiasts who use it as a base for desert recreation activities. The camping area is situated several miles from the main road, with various pull-offs and established informal camping spots throughout the area.