Top Tent Camping near Amboy, CA

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Amboy, look no further. With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Amboy campgrounds for you and your tent. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Amboy, CA (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
    Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS

    1. DESERT DAYS

    5 Reviews
    31 Photos
    25 Saves

    DESERT DAYS- is situated on 3 private acres in Wonder Valley, California. We are in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Desert Days, has breathtaking sunrises and lingering sunsets that color the sky.

    Views of the cross-valley vista of Joshua Tree National Park, and breathtaking views of nearby Cleghorn and Sheephole Mountain Wilderness Areas.

    Joshua Tree National park is just 15 mins from the camp.

    Our roads aren’t paved, but neighbors are few and far between. Stargazing is supreme here due to the lack of light pollution.

    The cell phone service is great. Downtown shopping is 15 mins away from Camp.

    Sprinkled throughout the roads of Wonder Valley, is a rural community of artists, musicians, and other desert dwellers.

    Close enough to visit the Famous Palms Restaurant, the Glass Outhouse Gallery, and the Wonder Valley Community Center.

    I hope you will come camp and enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table

    $20 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass in Mojave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Pass in Mojave National Park
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty
      Camper-submitted photo from Shabby Shanty

      4. Shabby Shanty

      1 Review
      6 Photos
      15 Saves

      Psitioned on the side of a hill so you can overlook the dry lake bed. Nearest nieghbor is 1/2 mile away. Far enough from town to be private and very peaceful yet only 7 miles from downtown Joshua Tree and JTNP.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Picnic Table
      • Showers

      $60 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground

      5. Mojave National Preserve Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground

      1 Review
      12 Photos
      38 Saves

      While the campgrounds at Mid Hills and Hole-in-the-Wall accommodate a maximum of 8 people and 2 vehicles per site, the Black Canyon Equestrian & Group Campground (located across the road from Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center) is ideal for larger groups. The campsite is available to groups of 15-50 people and reservations are required. Call (760) 252-6101 to make a reservation up to 12 months in advance. NO WATER AVAILABLE AS OF APRIL 2021. Campers must fetch water at nearby Hole-in-the-Wall Campground.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Mojave National Preserve - 17 Mile Camp
      Camper-submitted photo from Desert Camp Festivities
      Camper-submitted photo from Desert Camp Festivities
      Camper-submitted photo from Desert Camp Festivities

      7. Desert Camp Festivities

      Be the first to review!
      3 Photos
      16 Saves

      Vacation in the Mojave Desert Wonder Valley California! We are located in the middle of the desert on 5 acres and surrounded by hundreds of miles of desert fun. We are 15 miles east of Joshua Tree National Park! We offer rv waste disposal and a restroom with a shower. Our well water is not drinkable so make sure to bring lots of drinking water. Must bring your own tent. See you soon!

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents

      $20 / night

      • No image available

        8. The Emblem

        Be the first to review!
        4 Saves

        Sitting on one corner of this magnificent campsite is the emblem of the modern supply chain, the shipping container. This is a used 20 footer with plenty of vertical room for an NBA player.

        Yet, this is but the least significant part of the campsite which is in the Wonder Valley region of 29 Palms. "Out there," as the locals may say. As a recent local myself, I refer to this place as My Own Private Anza-Borrego. The darkness there, aka lack of light pollution, can be intimidating while also being the best place to disconnect from dirty, noisy city life.

        No matter your degree of prepper, The Emblem will be a campsite worth remembering and returning to.

        Whether you choose to sleep inside the container, with the doors wide open, or tent camp right next to it, you'll have hundreds of acres around you to yourself. The silence is pleasantly maddening. You'll get decent download speeds on your phone but don't expect to be able to work remotely out here. Be there to recharge your human batteries, expand your soul, or test your prepper readiness or new camping gear.

        Visit The Monument which is just 15 minutes away on the Utah Trail. Visit the small downtown of 29 Palms, just 8 miles away. And the (in)famous bar & grill, The Palms, just about 7 miles down Amboy heading east. They're only open these days on Fridays and the weekend.

        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Cabins
        Camper-submitted photo from Boy Scout Trail Backcountry Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from North Lava Tube Camp

        10. North Lava Tube Camp

        1 Review
        33 Photos
        23 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Equestrian
      Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews In Amboy

      495 Reviews of 12 Amboy Campgrounds


      • Karen D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Campground
        Oct. 5, 2024

        Ryan Campground

        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.

      • 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!

      • 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.

      • 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.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Wild Horse Road Dispersed
        Apr. 2, 2024

        Wild Horse Road Dispersed

        Beautiful Spot

        Great spot just before Hole in the Wal About 1/4 mile down a road marked “4x4 high clearance only.” But if you’re just hitting the campsite you can make It in a lot less. There’s a turn around there for people towing trailers. No facilities, just a fire ring, red rock peaks and quiet. Absolutely stunning.

      • Joey N.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
        Apr. 1, 2024

        Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

        Great central location

        Jumbo Rocks is a great campsite with decent amenities. There are bathrooms everywhere and has over 100 sites available. Trash receptacles are plenty and usually nearby. Numerous hikes are nearby for numerous outings and is very family friendly.

        The site is very popular so finding an open site to book can be difficult, but not impossible if you check everyday.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from DESERT DAYS
        Mar. 28, 2024

        DESERT DAYS

        Awesome stay in the desert

        Great overnight stay in the middle of the desert - easy to find and nice setup with fire ring and benches. Close to Joshua Tree National Park North Entrance. We fitted our 25ft RV with no problem!

      • Maura G.
        Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
        Mar. 13, 2024

        Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

        Stolen Tent

        Not a bad spot in close proximity to Joshua Tree, but our tent disappeared from our site on 3/12. We left in the morning to hike and returned to our site to find that every piece of our tent and sleeping gear was gone.

      • Michaela H.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
        Mar. 8, 2024

        North Joshua Tree

        Good camping with dump station nearby

        Stayed here for two weeks in February and found it very enjoyable. Nobody too rowdy, people left respectful distances between rigs, GREAT location for travel caravans.

        1. The most paved way in is to take Sunfair to Broadway. Sites are technically in and next to the Coyote Lake bed, but so long as it’s not too crowded the residents next to the solar farm don’t seem to mind parking closer to them, which is a lifesaver during rain because you do NOT want to get trapped in lake mud trying to leave. There’s a large compacted area to the left and right once you pass the solar farm. NOTE: if you park closer to the solar farm, just be aware that there are farm animals so it smells appropriately like manure.
        2. BE CAREFUL!! Don’t drive into areas with any kind of grasses growing or even dead, this is a good indicator you’ve gotten to the sandier soil which is NOT your friend and WILL sink you with only 2WD.
        3. Further up Sunfair is a family run campground, wonderful people, standard site pricing ($30 dry, $55 full hookup). Convenient to have nearby because they’ll let you use the dump station for $20, fill your water for $5, and shower for $10.
        4. When I was here we had rangers driving through semi regularly, but I never saw them stop or approach a rig at any point. Definitely nice to just be left alone!
      • Jess L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
        Mar. 7, 2024

        BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree

        Awesome

        Loved camping here, my fiancé and I went to a show at Pappy and Harriet’s and afterwards set up camp here. Easy to find and you have SO much space! There were a bunch of camper vans parked but there’s so much space so you don’t feel crammed and still have plenty of privacy! Loved the night sky views as well. We will for sure be returning here in the future.



      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

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Amboy, CA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Amboy, CA is DESERT DAYS with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Amboy, CA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Amboy, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.