Free dispersed camping on BLM land outside Nipton starts with a road that demands attention. The access route off Bailey Road turns to dirt quickly and narrows to single-lane for roughly the first two miles, with steep grades, rocky sections, and limited room to pass oncoming vehicles. Most reviewers in high-clearance vehicles, including Sprinters and a Promaster, report managing it without issue on dry days, though at least one two-wheel-drive van found it a close call. Wet conditions would change the calculus significantly.
Once past the approach, the camping area opens into several flat, spread-out sites among Joshua trees, with some established fire rings in place. Sites are distinct and spaced well apart. Wild burros have been spotted by multiple visitors, which tends to be a memorable encounter. Overnight temperatures run cooler here than at lower-elevation alternatives like Lake Mead, making it a reasonable stopover for drivers coming through the Mojave in warmer months.
Cell service drops out near the camping area itself, with coverage returning if you walk back toward the road. There are no water sources or toilets on site, so campers need to arrive self-contained. Nearby dispersed options include Mojave National Preserve Dispersed near Cima Road and BLM Dispersed off Nipton Road / BLM NN384 for those wanting to compare sites in the region. As Kelda C. noted, it is "cool to see the joshua trees, though," which captures the low-key appeal of the place. This site works best for self-sufficient campers in capable vehicles who want a free, low-traffic overnight stop in the eastern Mojave.
Description
Roadside and Undeveloped Camping Regulations
- Roadside and undeveloped camping must be in previously used sites outside of any posted no camping areas, or areas listed below.
- In order to protect sensitive habitat for wildlife, campsites must be more than 200 yards from any natural or constructed water source.
- Groups over 7 vehicles/ 25 people and/or organized events will need to obtain a permit Large groups can cause extensive damage to vegetation in non permitted areas. A permit ranger may be able to assist you and your group to find an appropriate site to stay.
- Vehicles must remain in previously disturbed areas. The creation of new campsites will not be allowed. Driving off of established roads is not permitted.
- Campfires are allowed in existing fire ring or in a fire pan. Constructing New Fire rings is not allowed
- Collecting and or cutting firewood is prohibited in the Preserve. Bring your firewood with your from outside the preserve
- Backcountry campers may camp anywhere in the Preserve outside of designated day use only areas but must erect their tent out of sight of paved roads.
- Trash must be packed out, leave the area cleaner than you found it.
- Human waste must be buried at least 6 inches deep, toilet paper needs to be packed out as trash. Nobody likes to find used toilet paper on their national park experience.
- Do not bury or leave behind any food scraps, trash, or compost. This attracts ravens and other predators of the threatened desert tortoise.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsKokoweef Dispersed Camping is located in California near Nipton
Coordinates
35.44004314123276 N
115.50727171341457 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
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.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 2 hrs 30 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
- 2 hrs 51 min from St. George, UT
- 4 hrs 56 min from El Centro, CA
