Best Camping near Amboy, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Amboy, CA? Amboy is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Amboy, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Amboy, CA (85)

    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    109 Reviews
    504 Photos
    1153 Saves
    Twentynine Palms, California

    Overview

    Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park trail maps and more! Jumbo Rocks Campground lies amid the huge, steep rock formations for which Joshua Tree National Park is known. Close proximity to many boulders and rock formations, it is a popular camping location for families with kids. Jumbo Rocks is one of four campgrounds in the park that requires reservations year-round. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover between 70-90 degrees during the day and drop to a 40-60 degree range at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to the uncomfortably-high desert heat. Jumbo Rocks is at an elevation of 4,380 feet.

    Recreation

    Rock scramblers flock to Jumbo Rocks Campground for the variety of geological formations and warmer temperatures that can be found in the interior of the park. Several hiking trails also leave from the campground. There is a short interpretive nature trail and plenty of rocks and canyons to explore within the facility. Clear desert skies are perfect for star-gazing.

    Natural Features

    Campsites are nestled on a flat, sandy surface between large boulders that tower in unique shapes over the campground and rise up from the otherwise uniform desert landscape. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues during the morning and evening sunlight and low with campfire light by night. Visitors may want to keep their eyes out for typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window: If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit the recreation fee for the day of departure. There is no change fee if the customer wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Changes or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window: Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center (see below for early departures). If the location is staffed, on-site personnel may or may not be able to assist with changes or cancellations (check with local staff). No-Shows Overnight Facilities: A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out (noon) time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. *Note: the entire reservation will be cancelled for no-shows.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    2. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    61 Reviews
    301 Photos
    471 Saves
    Twentynine Palms, California

    Overview

    Download the NPS app prior to visiting the park trail maps and more! Indian Cove Campground lies amid the huge, steep rock formations for which Joshua Tree National Park is known. Because of its proximity to many rock climbing routes, it is a popular camping location for climbers. Indian Cove Group is one of three group campgrounds in the park that can be reserved year round. To get the most out of your visit Plan Like a Park Ranger Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures hover between 70-90 degrees during the day and drop to a 40-60 degree range at night. Summer is the park's off-season due to the uncomfortably-high desert heat. Indian Cove is at an elevation of 3,200 feet.

    Recreation

    Rock climbers flock to Indian Cove Campground for the variety of routes and warmer temperatures that can be found in the interior of the park. Several hiking trails also leave from the campground. There is a short interpretive nature trail and plenty of rocks for the non-climber to explore within the facility. Clear desert skies are perfect for star-gazing and night photography.

    Natural Features

    Campsites are nestled on a flat, sandy surface between large boulders that tower in unique shapes over the campground and rise up from the otherwise uniform desert landscape. The rocks were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and have been exposed and shaped by wind and water over time. They brighten with soft pastel hues during the morning and evening sunlight and glow with campfire light by night. Visitors may want to keep their eyes out for typical desert inhabitants such as lizards, rattlesnakes, scorpions, ravens, squirrels and desert tarantulas during the cooler months of the year. Bobcats and mountain lions do live in the park, however they are rarely seen near humans.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Individual Site: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change your reservation. Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Within 48 hours of arrival, a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's fee are charged. Group Site: Customers who cancel a group overnight reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. No-Shows Overnight Facilities: A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out (noon) time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee for a campsite. *Note: the entire reservation will be cancelled for no-shows.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve

    3. Kelso Dunes Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve

    13 Reviews
    29 Photos
    377 Saves
    Mojave National Preserve, California

    Camping in undeveloped campsites is allowed in previously used or disturbed sites outside of the "day-use-only" areas. In most cases these sites include a rock or metal fire ring; not all sites contain a fire ring. All fires must be in a fire ring or fire pan; new fire rings cannot be constructed. Camping tramples vegetation and disturbs soils. By reusing existing sites, you help protect the desert from further damage. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including burrying human waste at least six inches deep.

    Careful planning and knowledge of camping guidelines and regulations will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for you, future visitors, and the fragile desert environment.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve

    5. Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed — Mojave National Preserve

    8 Reviews
    31 Photos
    161 Saves
    Amboy, California

    Camping in undeveloped campsites is allowed in previously used or disturbed sites outside of the "day-use-only" areas. In most cases these sites include a rock or metal fire ring; not all sites contain a fire ring. All fires must be in a fire ring or fire pan; new fire rings cannot be constructed. Camping tramples vegetation and disturbs soils. By reusing existing sites, you help protect the desert from further damage. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including burrying human waste at least six inches deep.

    Careful planning and knowledge of camping guidelines and regulations will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for you, future visitors, and the fragile desert environment.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    7. Hidden Valley Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    39 Reviews
    164 Photos
    793 Saves
    Twentynine Palms, California

    The Hidden Valley Campground has 44 sites. There are pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits. There is no water so bring plenty of your own. To secure a campsite, 1. Locate an empty campsite. 2. Occupy the site (set up a tent or leave personal items to show site occupancy). 3. Proceed immediately to an entrance station to complete registration and pay. You must pay for the site within one hour of set up. If arriving after entrance stations close, payment may be delayed until the following morning.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    8. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    24 Reviews
    67 Photos
    6 Saves
    Joshua Tree, California

    When all the campsites are fully booked in Joshua Tree Nation Park, this is your next best option to get a campsite near the park and still have the "campground atmosphere" you seek.

    Our spacious sites offer beautiful views of open desert and sweeping vistas in all directions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Amboy Crater
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve

    10. Hole in the Wall Campground — Mojave National Preserve

    24 Reviews
    88 Photos
    342 Saves
    Cima, California

    At 4,400 feet in elevation, Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is surrounded by sculptured volcanic rock walls and makes a great basecamp for hikers. Thirty-five campsites accommodate RVs and tents; two walk-in sites are also available. Maximum RV or trailer length is 30 Feet.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Amboy

Recent Reviews in Amboy

586 Reviews of 85 Amboy Campgrounds


  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Joshua tree np without the fee

    I’ve camped at Joshua tree national park numerous times but this is the first time at this site. It was great. Lots of climbing at hiking at this spot. Great Joshua tree experience without the long drive and entrance fee.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Razor Road Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Razor Road Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful and quiet with lots of space

    Verizon had excellent reception, enough room between campers to run a generator without bothering anyone. Lots of litter everywhere. It would be nice if people would haul out more trash than what they bring in. After all it is free camping.

  • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Beautiful and quiet

    We stayed two nights here in a campervan. It's a really great location to explore the park. The rocks give some good shade. Space #9 was shady in the mornings. The toilets were fine. It was really quiet, they're were a few other campers mostly in tents. No sign of any rattlesnakes or other critters either. Except loads of cute squirrels, and some mice and lizards.

  • Carol L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Shabby Shanty

    cool

    What a stunning view from this hillside property! Overlooking the dry lake bed with a neighbor half a mile away sounds like the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and privacy. The proximity to downtown Joshua Tree and JTNP offers the best of both worlds—seclusion and convenience. If you’re considering moving to such a beautiful area, it’s important to communicate your vision clearly. That’s where https://stateofwriting.com/uk/sociology-writing-service comes in. Their expert writing services can help you craft compelling content, whether it’s for a personal blog, a real estate listing, or any other writing project. Enjoy the tranquility of this amazing location!

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    We were too big

    Heads up about this place if you’re in an RV like we are. We reserved spot #40, we are a 26ft class c (28 ft total length) and the length limit for this spot is 30 ft, and RVs are allowed. But we felt like we barely fit side to side, and definitely wouldn’t have put our slides out. Not to mention it was so unlevel that we wouldn't have wanted to take the slides out anyway. The spot was cute, a little spot by itself between a hill and the “bump out” type parking spot where you’d park your vehicle. There’s a picnic table, a grill, and a fire pit. We ended up parking there for a bit, walking over to skull rock and the discovery trail to face rock (dogs not allowed on trails), walked back, and left. We would have been way too uncomfortable if we’d tried to stay the night. Oh well- we only lost $20. 

    There are dumpsters throughout the campground, and recycling at the entrance. We didn’t see any hosts or staff. There are pit toilets as well. We did see some other RVs in spots that looked fine, but overall I’d recommend this place for tents only unless you know for sure you’ll fit in the spot. Zero cell service in the entire park.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Beautiful

    This place is reservation only, through recreation.gov. The rangers at the visitor center do not handle anything with reservations whatsoever. We managed to get two nights fairly last minute, only to arrive and find the campground mostly empty. That’s pretty aggravating, probably due to people making reservations and not showing up. 

    Sites are $25/night, and rec.gov does not charge a processing fee, which is so nice. 

    The roads throughout the campground are in terrible shape, but we managed in our 26ft class C. The roads and many of the sites are washed out and crumbling. Most sites are not level. Our site,#90, was ok with leveling blocks. 

    There’s recycling here (no glass accepted), trash dumpsters, flush toilets, and a free dump station with potable water fill. No showers here. There are many hiking trails directly from the campground, which is nice, but dogs are not allowed on the trails. 

    ATT had good service and Verizon was usable but very weak.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Aug. 25, 2024

    BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree

    Definition of Dispersed Camping

    Everything about this site is not only free, but literally free to park and camp anywhere. There are private properties around, so just double check, but for the most part its wife open land to camp. Also currently in a fire ban, but that should be getting lifted in October. So campfires would be a great idea out here as well.

  • Sue O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Castle House Campsites
    Aug. 20, 2024

    The Castle House Campsites

    charming destination

    The Castle House Campsites is a charming destination nestled in the heart of nature, offering visitors a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. Whether you're looking to unwind by a serene lake or explore scenic trails, this campsite provides an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With amenities that cater to both families and solo travelers, The Castle House Campsites ensures a memorable outdoor experience for everyone. When planning your next getaway, it's also important to consider how your property investments back home, such as in Pinellas County, may be affected by local market trends. Keeping an eye on the Pinellas County property assessment can help you make informed decisions about your real estate assets while enjoying your time in nature.

  • Julia H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Razor Road Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Razor Road Dispersed Camping

    Ehh

    It was an aight spot. did the job. the spots are like behind a sketchy gas station, so i drove down a little bit so i wasn’t near it. tons of garbage. other than that, decent morning view ! stayed safe the whole night. can’t complain.

  • Vincent B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Afton Canyon Campground
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Afton Canyon Campground

    Convenient stop before the Mojave Trail

    Wind was too intense to get the car back tent up at night. Good place to stop before or after the Mojave Trail. There's a small water crossing just after the campground before accessing the trail. My Subaru Crosstrek made it fairly easily just note its presence.

    Sites had a concrete table, fire pit with cooking bars, cover over the table and room for a couple cars.

    Community vault toilets were available. I'd advise bringing toilet paper!

  • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Park Road Camp
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Gold Park Road Camp

    South of 29 Palms

    Takes a bit of time to find just the right spot, as some areas are a little trashy. Quiet, beautiful evening sunset enjoyed. Cools down nicely at night.

  • Jami C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass in Mojave National Park
    May. 21, 2024

    Granite Pass in Mojave National Park

    Beautiful, but critters and thorns

    Traveling across country, Jeep camping. Spot was perfect and beautiful. Could have been off the road a bit more considering the amount of traffic for such a remote spot. Make sure to wear shoes as there are thorns. Also be ready to wake up to critters (mice? Chipmunks?) running across your exhaust, chewing on their dinner.

  • Jason M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground
    May. 13, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

    Good Times and Clear Skies!

    We booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint! My camera couldn't capture the magnificent view from just our site. We stayed three nights and had two perfect days, but the final full day was filled with wind, as expected in this part of the desert. No worries, though—explore the town and escape the wind. We did not use any facilities, but the hookups were great and the park was clean. I would come again in the off-summer season!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    May. 12, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    GOOD ENOUGH

    The area was easy to navigate; even when we pulled in late at night. There were a lot of people coming in and out as well. I wouldn’t recommend if you’re looking for privacy. Aside from that, I would camp if you’re looking for something easy, safe, and accessible.

  • Josee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 15 min to Joshua Tree National Park!
    May. 10, 2024

    15 min to Joshua Tree National Park!

    Mini Joshua tree and cactus garden

    We always choose to do dispersed camping and it seems find hidden gems. This is like dispersed camping in your own Joshua tree and cactus garden. Clean, peaceful and magnificent. We had a magical time. The owner is quick to respond and really helpful.

  • Doc P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
    Apr. 21, 2024

    North Lava Tube Camp

    Perfect desert camping for beginners and families.

    Just 10 miles down a great, stereotypical, paved desert road off of I-15 you’ll find an unmarked turnoff as the road curves. The turnoff quickly becomes a dirt road that runs straight for miles. On the right side is the Mojave National Wilderness and on the left is the Mojave National Preserve where camping is allowed in designated areas only. These are marked pretty well and can easily accommodate groups (see “camping” below). The road is easy (see “Approach” below) and I’d feel comfortable taking a 2wd sedan to at least the first campsite which is only about 200m from the road. Fires are allowed in fire pits only which both sites I saw have.

    Camping There are two designated dispersed campsites that I saw. I didn’t drive much past the second site though the road wasn’t difficult. The sites are well established and well marked. Some places look like they could be campsites but they are marked as “No Camping.” Look for the established areas with a fire pit that have the designated camping signs. They are located next to rock formations that help block the wind and give you a place to get on top of to look around. Watch out for snakes! The first one is maybe 200m down the road on the left. It has a driveway leading to a circular area so it would be good for a pull through camper or two. It’s large enough for a few campers, I’d say, or several vehicles. Pretty ideal if you had a horse trailer (there is not water source) as across the site is a good equestrian/hiking trail. I chose this one because it was actually smaller and I didn’t want to take up the larger second site. The second site is visible from the first but not close enough to interact much. The rock formation is larger, it’s more hidden from the main road, and has more space for vehicles. Better for a group - even a large one. Check the sign on the way into the preserve to make sure fires are allowed that day. Firewood can be purchased at the market in Baker.

    The Approach and Ace Test The exit off of I-15 is convenient - stop in Baker immediately on the right for supplies then right across the interstate is Kellbaker Rd - the paved road that goes through the Mojave. After the mile 10 marker, the road turns right and in the middle of the turn is an unmarked paved driveway. Turn onto that driveway and it becomes a sandy dirt road that runs straight. There are some signs that say “No Motor Vehicles” and “No Camping” but these signs are talking about not leavening the road. You’re fine if you stay on the road. There are some pull offs that look like campsites but they will have rocks across the path and have signs saying no camping. Look for the designated camping signs and pull offs with a fire pit. This road does pass the Ace test for me (Ace was my 216 VW Jetta that I took on roads like this often); however, there are a couple spots toward the second campsite and beyond that I, personally, would do with Ace but if you’re less comfortable, the first campsite is maybe 200m in and any car could make that easily.

    Activities The trails are well marked and one can explore the Lava Tubes which is just across the dirt road and easy access. It’s hot even in spring so bring a lot of water - more than you think you need. WATCH OUT FOR SNAKES. I had a fire and it was great to sit, relax, and stargaze. There isn’t a lot of light pollution so on a clear night, it’s awesome. Further down the paved road, there are other things like more Lava Tubes, some mines, and a trail you can drive along to check out water tanks. I like this camp area because it’s isolated and out of town but close enough to get supplies while allowing access further into the preserve. You can also go check out the World’s Largest Thermometer in Baker as well as an Alien kitsch shop and a few restaurants.

    Weather I was there towards the end of April and it was in the 90’s and sunny during the day, a hot breeze coming from the west. At night, it was clear and starry and a low around 65.

    Cell Service and Other Services I had 3 bars of Verizon LTE and was able to text and send videos and do some of my remote work. There are no amenities; however, Baker is just 10 miles away and has a few gas stations and a market that have pretty much everything from laundry detergent to firewood.

  • Rainer R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Apr. 14, 2024

    North Joshua Tree

    Nice stay, plenty of space

    We arrived early in the afternoon around 4:30 pm and found a vast, open place witziges only few, dispersed campers. Access was easy, Solid ground . Only the partly littered areas prevent us from giving 5 stars.

  • Emmi O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    Ok for one night stay

    We arrived late in the evening and spent one night there. There was couple of other campers too, so we felt safe. No trash but smelled like urine. Cell service was okay.

  • Danny T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart of the Mojave on Kelbaker Road
    Apr. 6, 2024

    Heart of the Mojave on Kelbaker Road

    It’s ok.

    23ft rv Beginning of april The camping area is small. There was one can there when we arrived on Friday , early in the day. By 5 pm there were several vehicles. Another rv parked about 30 ft away and a van pulled in at night and was about 15 ft behind us. The area is very pretty. Great mountains etc. bit if garbage around which always bums. Me out. Spent shell casings.
    It’s ok in a pinch for sure and I could see it being good mid week when maybe nobody is around.



Guide to Amboy

Camping near Amboy, California, offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert, with stunning landscapes and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous place to explore, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking the Dunes: Climb the Kelso Dunes for breathtaking views. One camper mentioned, "Highly recommend hiking up them," after enjoying a peaceful night at Kelso Dunes Dispersed.
  • Exploring Rock Formations: Visit Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed for some rugged camping and cool hikes into the washes. A reviewer said, "Awesome rugged camping in the middle of the Mojave."
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing. One camper at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping noted, "Great star watching. A great escape."

What campers like:

  • Peace and Quiet: Many campers appreciate the solitude. One reviewer at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping said, "Went at the start of December on a Saturday and was the only one there."
  • Beautiful Views: Campers rave about the stunning scenery. A visitor to Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed shared, "Incredibly beautiful, clean, peaceful with beautiful sunsets and sunrises."
  • Easy Access: Many campgrounds are accessible by car. A camper at Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping mentioned, "The area was easy to navigate; even when we pulled in late at night."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Most campgrounds lack basic facilities. A camper at Sheephole Valley Wilderness noted, "This is dispersed camping so there are no amenities."
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough. One family at Kelso Dunes Dispersed mentioned, "Road to the campground is in very poor condition."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Plenty of Water: The desert can be hot and dry. A camper at Kelso Dunes Dispersed advised, "Bring lots of water. Even on a cool day like we went."
  • Choose a Safe Spot: Look for areas with some privacy. One camper at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping mentioned, "There are a couple of different camp spots at the end so even if there are other people there you can still get some privacy."
  • Plan for Activities: Kids will love climbing the dunes. A family at Kelso Dunes Dispersed said, "My 3 boys loved climbing the dunes."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds may require high clearance vehicles. A reviewer at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping noted, "The road is manageable with a 2wd sedan."
  • Be Prepared for Wind: The desert can get windy, so secure your gear. A camper at Afton Canyon Campground mentioned, "Wind was too intense to get the car back tent up at night."
  • Look for Level Sites: Some campgrounds have uneven ground. A visitor at Ryan Campground said, "Every spot is open to wind but none the less! Very peaceful spot."

Camping near Amboy, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique desert environment!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Amboy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Amboy, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Amboy, CA and 31 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Amboy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Amboy, CA is Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 109 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Amboy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 free dispersed camping spots near Amboy, CA.

  • What parks are near Amboy, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Amboy, CA that allow camping, notably Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park.