Desert camping near Amboy, California presents distinctive challenges due to extreme temperature fluctuations ranging from over 100°F in summer to below freezing in winter. The volcanic landscape east of Barstow sits at approximately 600 feet elevation, with frequent high winds that can dramatically impact camping comfort. Minimal services in the area require self-sufficiency for any dispersed camping excursion.
What to do
Hike volcanic formations: The Amboy Crater trail offers accessible desert hiking with geological features. "The day use parking lot has bathrooms. Not a lot of spots to camp but it's also not a crowded spot unless there is a stargazing event. It's close to Roy's for a fun little touristy stop," notes a camper at Amboy Crater Dispersed.
Explore boulder formations: Granite Pass provides opportunities for scrambling and photography among distinctive rock piles. "A very beautiful area with the opportunity for good camping. There are several dispersed sites--some closer to the boulders than others. Some sites more private than others," according to reviews at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping.
Climb sand dunes: Kelso Dunes offers challenging hiking with unique rewards. "The Kelso dunes are no joke. 600' climb in elevation in deeeeeeeep sand that's been accumulating for 25k years. It's breath taking literally once you're there. But go prepared with water and salty snacks to help with the sweat loss," advises a visitor to the area.
What campers like
Desert solitude: Many sites provide isolation rarely found in more popular camping regions. A camper at Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed shared, "We couldn't believe we were the only ones here, incredibly beautiful, clean, peaceful with beautiful sun sets and sun rises. We stayed there for 4 days and didn't see anyone."
Sunrise viewing: Early morning light creates distinctive desert landscapes worth the early wake-up. "We spent our days scrambling across the rock formations—each turn revealing a new panorama—and our nights marveling at the Milky Way in one of the best dark-sky locations in California," reports a visitor to the region's campgrounds.
Wildlife watching: Desert ecosystems support surprising biodiversity for patient observers. "Lots of birds to listen to and spy with binoculars. In the spring the desert flowers are blooming and beautiful to seek out different species," notes a visitor to Granite Pass.
What you should know
Limited services: No water or facilities exist at most dispersed sites. "Pit toilets are available and maintained. Most sites have fire rings as this seems to be a decommissioned campground. Very spotty cell connection," reports a camper at Kelso Dunes Dispersed.
Road challenges: Many camping areas require careful navigation. "Further down the road the sand gets deeper and the spots are less defined. Getting in early paid off I had first pick and got the first big site by the rock formation, which seems to be the best site," advises a Kelbaker Boulders camper.
Safety concerns: Temperature extremes require preparation. "There are a few options available depending on how far you're willing to push your vehicle into sandy terrain. If you don't turn into the most obvious site by the boulders right away, then you'll get to a four way intersection each way leading to different options," reports a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible climbing: Several areas offer natural playground opportunities for children. "The campground was amazing. It was very hot in July so I went into town during peak afternoon hours but the morning and evenings at Jumbo Rocks are amazing!" shares a visitor to the Joshua Tree campground located 60 miles southwest.
Educational hiking: Volcanic and geological features provide learning opportunities. "Great place for tent camping! Definitely narrow spots for bigger vehicles, but for car-camping with tents, it was perfect! We did have a coyote visitor twice in the morning, so don't forget to keep your food/trash locked up from critters!" warns a Jumbo Rocks camper.
Morning activities: Schedule active pursuits before midday heat arrives. "Easy hike to the crater, but a hard pull to the top. The nighttime sky viewing was great," explains a visitor to Amboy Crater Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller RVs but have specific constraints. A camper at Indian Cove Campground noted, "We have a 29ft trailer with truck got in and out ok much bigger you would have a problem many tight spaces."
Water management: No hookups require careful resource planning. "This was an amazing place to camp for us. We did have to drive out to the highway and enter into the park on another road but that was o.k. There isn't a dump station at this campground and you can only fill up with water at the small ranger entrance building," explains a visitor to Indian Cove.
Leveling challenges: Uneven desert terrain requires additional setup time. "This is a great spot. The camping area is the overflow parking lot," mentions a visitor to Amboy Crater Dispersed, highlighting the limited developed options in the immediate area.
