The Adelanto area sits at an elevation of 2,871 feet in California's Mojave Desert, with average summer temperatures between 95-105°F and winter temperatures dropping to 30-40°F overnight. Camping near Adelanto offers a mix of desert and mountain environments within relatively short driving distances, with most campgrounds requiring advance planning for water needs due to the arid conditions.
What to do
Rock climbing at Sawtooth Canyon: Located 40 miles southwest of Adelanto, Sawtooth Canyon Campground features distinctive rock formations popular with climbers. "This canyon is great for a couple of days of climbing. The area is unique from the Mojave topography. Plus, it is free to camp," notes Tommy B. The area has multiple established climbing routes and plenty of space for bouldering.
Mountain biking near Victorville: The trails around Hesperia Lake Park provide various difficulty levels for mountain bikers. "Plenty of room to be by yourself and shoot some pictures," mentions Bryan about the Mojave Narrows Regional Park area, which offers both paved and dirt trails suitable for biking.
Hiking at higher elevations: During summer months when desert temperatures soar, head to the mountains for cooler hiking. "There are a couple of trails right from the campground too. Also there is a lodge open right next to the campground if you wanted to eat out for a lunch or dinner!" shares Amy B. about Table Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Desert night skies: Free dispersed camping areas offer optimal stargazing conditions. "At the end of a mile-long dirt road we found camping spots that rivaled the Joshua Tree park…large rock backdrops, nearby potties, remoteness!" shares Jennifer P. about Bell Mountain Road camping area.
Shaded sites in desert heat: Finding shade is crucial during hot months. "The campsites are within a forest, so they provide a lot of shade. The campgrounds are spacious and restrooms and water are nearby each site," notes Joe G. about camping at Dogwood Campground, which sits at higher elevation and offers relief from desert temperatures.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The transition zones between desert and mountain environments create unique wildlife habitats. "I used to go here a lot as a kid, both for RV camping and fishing. It's an interesting area, as a rockbed forces the normally underground Mojave River to the surface here, meaning that this is one of the only parts of the river to flow above ground year round," explains Megan S. about Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Beautiful area, but I couldn't drive in.. Road is completely inaccessible and saw many others turning around as well. I'm in a Kia SUV and this road is like Godzilla shaking your rig," warns Annie G. about attempting to access Sawtooth Canyon.
Seasonal restrictions: Mountain campgrounds often close during winter months. "This is a great campground peacful nice place to see the Stars! Very clean," notes Shawna P. about Table Mountain Campground, which operates seasonally from May through November due to snow conditions.
Train noise at some sites: Several campgrounds in the region have nearby railroad tracks. "The sites around Horseshoe Lake are close to an active rail line. And by active, I mean really active – I stopped counting after I counted 24 trains lumbering by during our short overnight stay," reports Lee D. at Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: Few natural swimming options exist, but some campgrounds offer alternatives. "This is a nice little retreat from the desert. The only real complaint I have is the train. It takes a little while to get used to it going by. Wish they still had the paddle boats and horse back riding. The little zero gravity water park is nice if you have children," mentions Michelle K. about Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
Bear safety at mountain sites: Higher elevation campgrounds require proper food storage. "Each campsite has a bear locker, picnic table and fire ring," notes Karilyn O. about Table Mountain Campground, highlighting the importance of using these facilities.
Look for educational programs: Some park locations offer junior ranger activities. "This campground has so much to offer! The sites are well placed making a full campground fell spacious. There are many areas with water stations to fill up your containers. There is so many hiking opportunities from beginners to expert," shares Shuree F. about Dogwood Campground.
Tips from RVers
Water conservation strategies: Limited hookups in the region mean careful water management. "RV Park full of residence and full timers. Will accommodate one or more nights. Good place to recharge and do laundry. Everything looks mostly clean and the pool was nice too. Small dog park with real grass," notes Rick L. about Adelanto RV Park, one of the few facilities with full hookups in the immediate Adelanto area.
Prepare for significant temperature swings: Desert camping requires planning for both heat and cold. "Water and electric only on camp sites. No dump site there. There's nice shade on probably half the sites, the other ones have little or none," explains James C. about Hesperia Lake Park, emphasizing the importance of choosing sites with natural shade.
Backup locations needed: Popular dispersed sites fill quickly on weekends. "East access. 1.5 miles from pavement. Road is washboarded so keep your speed under 10mph and its a fairly smooth 5 minute drive," advises Scott D. about accessing Sawtooth Canyon during off-peak times.
