Mojave, California offers dry desert camping environments with high elevation changes ranging from 2,600 to 6,000 feet across camping areas. The region experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, with 30-40°F differences common even in moderate seasons. Wind is a dominant feature at most camping spots near Mojave, California, particularly in open desert areas.
What to do
Glider watching at Mountain Valley RV Park: Located adjacent to a glider airport, visitors can observe flights throughout the day. "In the morning we walked over to the Raven's Nest for breakfast and watched the gliders take off starting around 9am," notes one camper who enjoyed the unique aviation experience.
Hiking at Tehachapi Mountain Park: The park offers multiple scenic trails with mountain views. "Beautiful hikes with tons of scenic outlooks. Kid and pet friendly, never crowded it seems so you can also have some privacy," shares a regular visitor who considers it their go-to camping spot.
Star-gazing at Wind Walker Ranch: This primitive site provides exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "We saw a stunning sun rise and we both hope to be able to come back for another stay on our next trip," mentions a camper who appreciated the isolation.
What campers like
Joshua Tree landscapes at Joshua Tree Ranch Los Angeles: The property offers a unique Joshua Tree environment without traveling to the national park. "I've been here in the winter and the summer. I actually like the winter better! When there's snow on the Tehachapi mountains and the San Gabriel mountains, the view is incredible," explains one visitor.
Red rock formations at Ricardo Campground: The campground's position against colorful rock walls creates a dramatic setting. "Gorgeous and Clean. The views from this campground are absolute stellar," notes a camper who found plenty of available spaces during their visit.
Wildlife viewing at Brite Lake: The lakeside setting attracts various wildlife. "We enjoyed watching the bunnies and squirrels from our camper window and ducks and birds on the lake," shares a visitor who appreciated the natural surroundings despite drought conditions.
What you should know
Limited facilities at East Mojave Camp: This dispersed camping area requires self-sufficiency. "You can get far enough away from the highway that you don't need to worry about people driving by. There is nothing out here. The road to it is unmarked and very unmaintained," warns a camper emphasizing the need for preparedness.
Varied bathroom access: Many campgrounds have restricted bathroom hours or primitive facilities. At Mountain Valley RV Park, "bathrooms are locked between 10 pm and 7:30 am (not good for those of us with early mornings)," notes one review highlighting timing constraints.
Vehicle requirements: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. For dispersed sites like East Mojave Camp, reviewers recommend "high clearance vehicle if you want to be further away then 100 feet from the highway. Lots of wash outs."
Tips for camping with families
Tehachapi Mountain Park accessibility: The park offers family-friendly camping with nearby nature trails. "Great getaway without going far! Beautiful hikes with tons of scenic outlooks. Kid and pet friendly, never crowded it seems," comments a frequent visitor who appreciates the convenience.
Brite Lake Aquatic Recreation Area restrictions: Despite the lake setting, swimming is not permitted. "Our family stayed here for 2 nights. We enjoyed our time but the kids were disappointed they couldn't touch the water at the lake. I brought a small plastic pool for them to get wet in at our site because it was hot," advises a parent who found creative solutions.
Space considerations: Many campgrounds offer generous site spacing. At Tehachapi Mountain Park, "sites are around 6,000', pit toilets, grills, steel fire pits, picnic tables and potable water taps," making it comfortable for family camping with necessary amenities.
Tips from RVers
Economic options at Spaceport RV Park: This basic park offers practical amenities at low cost. "Full hookup for $20.00/night and VERY helpful park staff!!! It's my understanding they let you dump for $5.00 and fill your freshwater tank for $2.00 even if you don't stay here," notes an appreciative RVer.
Size limitations at Tehachapi Mountain Park: Larger rigs face challenges navigating the roads. "The road to the campground is a narrow, twisty, two lane road. Then we got to the campground and it got narrower and steeper. The grades in some parts of the campground were double digit percent grades and the hairpin turns were very sharp," warns a camper who managed with a small 13' trailer but cautions against larger vehicles.
Leveling needs at Ricardo Campground: The terrain requires preparation. "Most sights have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks," advises an RVer who found the sites manageable with proper equipment.
