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Amboy Crater Dispersed's pet-friendly camping area provides easy access for both tent and RV campers bringing dogs to this unique Mojave desert location. Several dispersed camping options allow pets throughout the area, including Heart of the Mojave on Kelbaker Road and Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed where camping remains free of charge. These primitive sites typically have no facilities or hookups, though Amboy Crater now features clean pit toilets at the day use parking area. Fire regulations vary between locations - fires are prohibited at Amboy Crater but permitted at most other dispersed sites in Mojave National Preserve. The camping area at Amboy Crater functions as an overflow parking lot with dirt edges suitable for tent pitching. Campers report the area stays remarkably clean with no trash.
Desert exploration with dogs requires preparation as these sites lack shade and can experience extreme temperatures. The hiking trail to Amboy Crater provides an excellent pet-friendly adventure, though early morning or sunset times work best to avoid heat. Most camping areas have sufficient space between sites for privacy with pets, and the boulder formations at Kelbaker create natural separation between campsites. Cell service varies significantly - AT&T users report excellent 5G coverage at Amboy Crater while service is more limited elsewhere. The area experiences occasional high winds, so securing gear properly helps prevent issues. Stargazing opportunities are exceptional when camping with pets, though the area becomes busier during new moon weekends and special stargazing events.
"Main Amboy Crater Parking Lot does not allow overnight camping, but their overflow parking area does. Overflow parking is asphalt but has dirt edges you can pitch a tent on."
"Amboy crater and the lava fields are beautiful hikes. Can be super hot and windy."
"Stayed: 6/1/2022 Cost: FREE
Site: Behind Boulders
Vehicle: GMC Terrain
Equipment: Tent
AT&T and T-Mobile: Pretty solid
Not far from the Kelbaker Road entrance of Mojave National Preserve,"
"Our dogs enjoyed it tremendously too."
"The spot right off the road behind that first hill isn’t that great, a little too close to the road for my taste BUT if you go down the road to the top of the hill there is one level flat spot with a fire"
"beautiful surroundings - large open space with fire pits and great views - fantastic night sky"
"Nice and quiet, far and tucked away from the road. Loved it"
"I arrived around midnight and tried to find a spot while it was dark north of 40 where the map here takes you. It looks like a nice area but the trails are very narrow."
"But I didn't hear much of it unless outside. Pretty peaceful. Just a small paved parking lot. Luckily, when I came in, there were only a few people here, so there was still space."
"They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."
"It is roughly in between the northern and western entrances of the park, which means that it's essentially on the eastern edge of most of the rock climbing areas."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"This was was one of the favorite spots I stayed at during a cross-country road trip from California to Florida in February 2021."
"Trail to dunes are close by. The trail to the dunes is deceptively far. Bring lots of water. Even on a cool day like we went."
"The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night. Bats flew just overhead for a couple hours and I thought it was magical!"
"Cons: no park entrance from here. You have to drive 20/30 minutes out to the main road and back in to get to the main area of the park. The campsite next to us had some nasty anthills."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"To begin please be careful of the roads as they very sandy and you can get stuck easily if you don't have a 4x4, that being said I made it in and out with a 2 wheel drive truck but I almost got stuck."
"There is some sand to drive through, but I don't think you'll need a 4wd vehicle tbh."
TravelerComfortable partial hookup sites, pet friendly, and nice people. Theres a dog park next door. The bathrooms are clean, and the laundry facilities work well (although coin only, no cards).
LegendThis place was the perfect campground as far as I’m concerned. It wasn’t busy at all when we were there in May. The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night. Bats flew just overhead for a couple hours and I thought it was magical! Restrooms were clean and just a short walk away. What I loved best was that it was pet friendly! My dog loved it as much as I did! Definitely will be back to camp in this spot.
TravelerThis listing was showing as free but when we showed up that was not the case. For simple tent camping, this cost $15/person and charge $5/per kid and pet. Must be gone by 11am. Overpriced for what we needed. Very loud and rude campers next to us until early morning hours evens though it’s against the park’s policies. Disappointed. Front lady checking in was very pleasant. No discounts for Veterans, only active duty.
GuideNice desert camping. Joshua tree is awesome if you are into sightseeing. The rock formations are incredible. If you like hiking (without your pet) then you should enjoy this area. The drive through the park is beautiful. Smaller rigs only. Not very level sights.
ScoutAs a long-time outdoor enthusiast and dog owner, it's with a heavy heart and a sense of duty that I share an alarming encounter at Campsite Desert Rose Collective. This venue, which promises peace and relaxation in the Palm Springs desert, instead presented a nightmare scenario. During what was meant to be a serene escape, my senior dog and I were subjected to a horrifying attack by two large, unrestrained dogs, introduced onto the premises by an acquaintance of the owner. These dogs, with a history of aggression, inflicted serious wounds on my pet and left me with physical injuries and deep-seated trauma. The ferocity of the attack and the owner's lax oversight on such known threats is deeply concerning.
The aftermath was a scene of chaos, with my dog desperately fleeing into the desert night and me, bruised and bleeding, in pursuit. The potential danger this poses to any visitor, especially those with children, is chilling to contemplate. I shudder to think of the consequences had my daughter, often donned in a playful puppy costume, been in attendance.
It is not without reluctance that I find myself advising against a visit to this establishment. No charm or amenity can compensate for a blatant disregard for basic guest safety. This incident was not merely unfortunate but a clear indication of gross negligence. Until comprehensive safety measures are visibly implemented and enforced, I implore potential visitors to prioritize their well-being and seek alternative locations for their desert adventures.
ScoutMain Amboy Crater Parking Lot does not allow overnight camping, but their overflow parking area does. Overflow parking is asphalt but has dirt edges you can pitch a tent on. Otherwise, there were dirt areas we camped at. Gets crowded during new moon weekends, and can get windy.
Had AT&T service here. No TMo.
Traveler20 bucks a night isnt too bad! The park staff is all friendly and helpful. Restrooms (very clean!) and pottable water are not very far from any of the 99 campsites in Black Rock. Fire rings with grates and picnic benches are provided in every camp, but no firewood is available. You're not allowed to use ANY surrounding vegetation for campfires (even kindling) so be prepared to cart in your own wood and kindling. Pets are allowed but they aren't allowed on trails and also not allowed to be left unattended-- so maybe leave Fido home this go round. Tent camping is HOT so be prepared for a 5am scorching hot wakeup.
Overall a very nice campground, and due to bathrooms and pottable water sources its a good campsite for the beginner or casual campers.
ScoutJust a very clean parking/camping lot with 360 degree view. Amboy crater and the lava fields are beautiful hikes. Can be super hot and windy.
TravelerI am currently on day 3 of staying out here. Originally planned on a single night but it's incredibly peaceful that I've sort of just lost track of time... If you're a remote worker with Starlink, open your doors and let the morning and evening wind blow through. Even at 81 deg outside, the desert wind keeps you cool. I travel with a cat and she's been absolutely loving rolling around in the sandy dirt. Try to move away from where most set up camp - easily seen by the tracks. I am currently at 34.17920N, 116.21926W and the closest person to me is easily 3-4 football fields away. Occasional gunfire from those near the mountain, but the echos are pretty cool across the flat lake. Park so either facing north or south so you're not blasted by the morning and evening sun through your windshields, even with covers it can heat up quick. If you come, take Sunfair Road, and turn right on Cypress Ave. Keep going straight. Find a place to call home for a few days, and enjoy.
Dispersed camping opportunities near Amboy, California span elevations from 1,300 to over 4,000 feet in the eastern Mojave Desert. Most sites sit on compacted desert soil with volcanic cinder terrain surrounding the Amboy Crater area. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 110°F in this remote section of the Mojave Desert.
Crater hiking without heat exhaustion: The Amboy Crater trail requires careful timing. "The hiking trail to the crater provides an excellent pet-friendly adventure, though early morning or sunset times work best to avoid heat," explains a visitor at Amboy Crater Dispersed. Even in March, temperatures can rise quickly.
Desert rock climbing: Boulder formations throughout the area offer natural climbing opportunities. "We spent our days scrambling across the rock formations—each turn revealing a new panorama," reports a camper at Jumbo Rocks Campground. Sites are often tucked between massive granite boulders providing natural climbing opportunities.
Dune exploration: The Kelso Dunes provide a unique hiking challenge. "The Kelso dunes are no joke. 600' climb in elevation in deeeeeeeep sand that's been accumulating for 25k years," writes a visitor to Kelso Dunes Dispersed. This strenuous hike requires extra water and salty snacks to replace sweat loss.
Natural site separation: Boulder formations create privacy between sites. "There are several dispersed sites—some closer to the boulders than others. Some sites more private than others," notes a camper at Granite Pass Dispersed. These natural barriers block wind and provide shade at different times of day.
Exceptional night skies: The minimal light pollution makes for superior stargazing. "Have you ever walked into the desert naked? If you so desire this is the place," remarks a camper at Sheephole Valley Wilderness, highlighting the extreme remoteness and privacy of some sites.
Morning wildlife viewing: Dawn provides opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "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," explains a visitor to Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping, noting the surprising biodiversity in what appears to be barren landscape.
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many access roads require careful driving or high-clearance vehicles. "Getting in early paid off I had first pick and got the first big site by the rock formation. Further down the road the sand gets deeper and the spots are less defined," warns a camper at Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed. Check road conditions before attempting access in standard vehicles.
Supply planning: The remote location requires bringing all necessities. "This is a great spot. Now I might be a bit biased because it's only 1 and 1/3 from my house but this spot is underrated," mentions a camper at Amboy Crater Dispersed, emphasizing the area's remoteness despite seeming accessibility.
Wind preparation: Desert winds can be strong and unpredictable. "Sunsets are gorgeous, however desert winds are harsh," notes a camper at Sheephole Valley Wilderness. Secure all camping equipment properly and consider wind direction when setting up tents.
Morning activities only: Plan desert hiking with children before 10 AM. "The trail to the dunes is deceptively far. Bring lots of water. Even on a cool day like we went," advises a visitor to Kelso Dunes Dispersed. Allow extra time for children to navigate difficult terrain.
Boulder playground areas: Natural rock formations provide safe climbing for supervised children. "This place was the perfect campground as far as I'm concerned. The sites are tucked into the rocks which block wind and kept us nice and warm at night," shares a camper at Indian Cove Campground.
Wildlife safety protocols: Teach children about desert wildlife awareness. "Be weary of wildlife!! Came across a rattle snake and a tarantula!! Very gorgeous site!!" warns a camper at Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed, emphasizing the importance of looking before stepping in desert environments.
Tight turning radius challenges: Many dispersed sites have limited maneuvering space. "I backed about 50 yards into the site itself because I was too long to maneuver in the site (this was figured out the hard way)," explains an RVer with a 24' trailer at Granite Pass, suggesting smaller RVs or advance scouting before bringing large rigs.
Sand awareness: Watch for soft sand that can trap vehicles. "The dispersed sites are spacious and fairly well kept up. Watch out for deeper sand that will sink you in good, they are easy to miss after dusk," warns a camper at Kelso Dunes Dispersed. Test sand firmness before driving RVs onto potential sites.
Solar advantage: The abundant sunshine makes solar power effective. "T-Mobile is excellent here. Rock formation is excellent for blocking the sound of a generator if you stick it behind the rocks," notes a visitor at Kelbaker Boulders Dispersed, highlighting how natural features can help manage noise in the otherwise quiet desert.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Amboy, CA is Amboy Crater Dispersed with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.
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