Tent camping near Adelanto, California offers diverse terrain spanning from high desert elevations around 2,900 feet to mountain sites reaching over 7,000 feet. Temperature variations can be extreme, with summer highs above 100°F at lower elevations while mountain campgrounds remain 15-20 degrees cooler. Winter brings snow to higher elevation sites, creating seasonal access challenges on forest service roads.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground provides access to natural hot springs via a moderately challenging trail. According to one camper, "The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there." Another visitor notes, "I had never been before, but I had a few friends bring me and it was the most amazing time! The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after!!!"
Mountain peak exploration: From Little Jimmy Trail Campground, hikers can access multiple summits. One reviewer explains, "Many trails lead from here. Including a 1.2 mike haunt up to a little peak (Mt Islip)." Another adds, "A short hike from mount baden Powell, mount Williamson & mount islip."
Off-road adventures: El Mirage Dry Lake offers extensive off-road opportunities on its flat terrain. "This place is huge! The dry lake bed is where a lot of the off roaring happens, but there are lots of places to explore too," reports one visitor. Another notes it's ideal "if you're into dirt bike riding there is a wide field of view. If you are into Rockets this is a great place because in some areas there's no vegetation whatsoever."
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers appreciate the reliable springs near Little Jimmy. As one reviewer notes, "A short walk from little jimmy spring, where you can get water to filter." Another mentions, "There's also year-round running water at Little Jimmy Springs."
Secluded forest sites: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offer exceptional privacy. "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks," explains one camper. Another notes, "These sites are beautiful - especial #9! It pokes out over the mountains and has the most unbelievable view!"
Desert star-gazing: The clear desert skies at Stoddard Valley OHV create memorable experiences. One camper shared, "Desert camping under the stars is never a bad time. Once the wind settled in the evening, I made some tea and read a book. I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites, one camper warns, "The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around." Another advises, "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)."
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature drops. One Keller Peak camper reports, "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May." At El Mirage, "It does get windy at night so if you camp outside be prepared to be pelted by small rocks and sand all night."
Site availability challenges: Yellow post sites fill quickly. "This is yellow post camping so it's hit or miss if you can get one. Do your homework and learn what you need to know ahead of time - esp regarding fires," advises a Keller Peak visitor. Another notes, "Get there earlier to find a spot, people seem to stay for awhile."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides family-oriented activities. "The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group," advises one visitor. Another found, "The town is very small and cute. The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish."
Scout-friendly sites: Little Jimmy Trail Campground regularly hosts organized youth groups. "Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs," explains a camper. Another notes, "When we got into the campsite, it was extremely crowded. There were about fifty or so Boy Scouts in the area for the weekend."
Educational opportunities: Peavine Campground in Angeles National Forest offers wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper notes, "Abundant Wildlife coming through camp. This has included bears sniffing out tent in the middle of the night & coyotes coming through... Personally I think it's awesome, but I know it's not everyone's cup of tea."
Tips for RVers
Desert dry camping: El Mirage offers expansive RV parking without hookups. A visitor reports, "Very flat and open, if you like desert camping this might be the place for you." However, another warns, "Be aware that it's very dusty, obviously the large amount of OHV vehicles causes a giant dust cloud, and it can be windy so the sand gets picked up even more."
Size limitations: Manker Campground accommodates smaller RVs but has restrictions. One camper notes, "Small tent and motorhome campground with firepits, water spickets, bathrooms." Another advises, "Only one car per campsite."
Facility constraints: Even at established sites, facilities may be limited. A Manker visitor warns, "Some people had recently destroyed the main bathroom by obnoxiously smashing all of the porcelian, leaving campers for 21 spots only two bathrooms to toggle between." Another notes, "The restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"
