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Best Campgrounds near Apple Valley, CA

1,039 Reviews

Camping areas in the high desert surrounding Apple Valley, California range from established campgrounds with amenities to free dispersed sites on public lands. Mojave Narrows Regional Park offers water and electric hookups for RVs along with tent sites near Victorville, while Bell Mountain Road provides free dispersed camping on BLM land. The region includes both year-round facilities like Hesperia Lake Park and Campground as well as seasonal options such as Hanna Flat Campground, which operates from May through October.

Many campgrounds in the Apple Valley region experience extreme temperature fluctuations, with summer highs frequently exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. A review mentioned that "spring is probably the best time to go as it can get very hot in summer and very cold in winter." Road access varies significantly, with developed campgrounds offering paved access while dispersed sites like those along Bell Mountain Road require vehicles that can handle unpaved desert terrain. Most established campgrounds provide water and toilets, though amenities differ widely. Reservations are recommended for popular sites, especially during pleasant weather periods in spring and fall when visitation increases.

The landscape around Apple Valley encompasses desert terrain, mountain forests, and small bodies of water that create diverse camping environments. Campers report mixed experiences with noise levels, particularly at Mojave Narrows Regional Park, where one visitor noted "trains running by all night long." Sites near water features tend to be more popular, with Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area and Hesperia Lake drawing visitors for fishing and water activities. Desert camping offers solitude and expansive views, though with minimal shade and facilities. Several campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire rings, and hiking access, with developed sites typically providing more amenities than primitive camping areas. Higher elevation campgrounds in the San Bernardino Mountains offer cooler temperatures and forest settings compared to the desert floor.

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Best Camping Sites Near Apple Valley, California (214)

    1. Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    36 Reviews
    Daggett, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 252-6000

    "I am here in California getting ready to leave the state by FY22 and had to get outside. I have been exploring the idea of going camping and decided to go this weekend."

    "There has been a lot of disrespectful off trail sites being made that is destroying the wilderness that has rebounded since 2003. Before that, it was the wild west."

    2. Mojave Narrows Regional Park

    9 Reviews
    Apple Valley, CA
    4 miles
    Website

    $3 - $40 / night

    "The lakes are nice, there are mountain views, and some cool hikes to explore in the riverbed area."

    3. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "Our site was at the edge of a loop, so just wilderness to explore behind us!

    Restrooms close"

    4. Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Cedarpines Park, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2281

    $45 - $350 / night

    "Silverwood Lake was just that. Lush green mountains in the back drop that surrounded every view you turned to take in. "You need to recharge your batteries!""

    "ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark. Campsites are a bit crowded for my liking. Access to the Silverwood Lake recreation area is a great benefit."

    5. Hanna Flat Campground

    25 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    $33 - $67 / night

    "We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."

    "We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."

    6. Serrano

    35 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8021

    $44 - $91 / night

    "We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."

    "This camp site is located walking distance to the lake. There are bike paths and walking trails located near the camp ground."

    7. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 515-7525

    $10 - $119 / night

    "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it."

    "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

    8. North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor

    14 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "Spaces are pretty close together and small, but we got lucky and didn’t have anyone around us (likely due to bad air quality). If you kayak this is a great place to camp, it’s right next to the lake."

    "Lake arrowhead isn't a public lake so it's a bit of a drive to do any water activities, but there was a close offroad trail."

    9. Hesperia Lake Park and Campground City Park

    4 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 244-5951

    $35 - $40 / night

    "Nice views of the lake but it's fenced off and access to the lake and park close in the evening. There is a small older bathroom there a flush toilet and a shower"

    "Tents RVs fishing showers water electric hookups and reasonable ducks beautiful lake! Buttt..you can only stay 5 days. 😔"

    10. Bell Mountain Road

    2 Reviews
    Apple Valley, CA
    8 miles

    "There is some garbage, target shooting in the distance and the occasional maniac driving through too fast and kicking up lots of dust. Generally it was quiet."

    "many Trucks at night. don't drive to the campground just search a space after road ends"

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Recent Camping Photos near Apple Valley, CA

428 Photos of 214 Apple Valley Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Apple Valley, CA

1039 Reviews of 214 Apple Valley Campgrounds

  • K
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Owl Canyon Campground

    Great overnight stop

    Bit of rattle and shake on the road leading in. The sites are well laid out with picnic tables and fire pits plenty of space.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    serrano camp grounds

    Great place

    I stayed for one night Wednesday just to try the showers. The showers were perfect! Hot water even! So clean and beautiful. Recommend!

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    Stunning but Safety Concerns

    I’ve camped at the Keller Peak yellow post sites more than two dozen times over the years and, at their best, they’re incredible. The scenery and isolation are superb—starry skies, quiet nights, and that deep-woods stillness that’s getting harder to find. For years this was my go-to spot. 

    Unfortunately, I’ve also watched trash and waste increase. Please, pack it out—these sites only stay special if we treat them with care. 

    My last trip was frightening enough that I haven’t returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup. I was using a portable propane fire pit—which is allowed—and I calmly explained that. I can understand why fire is an issue to locals.  I only felt safe because my small dog has a very loud bark, which kept them from coming closer. They said they were calling a ranger. I left the next morning, shaken. On my way out, I spoke with a park ranger who confirmed propane fire pits are permitted and told me they don’t patrol up there at night because of recurring issues like this. She also mentioned they were trying to move the site to a reservation system to deter homeless use; I’m not sure if that has happened yet. 

    It’s a shame, because this area is one of the best around. I’m sharing this so others can make an informed choice.  

    Pros - Spectacular views and true solitude Cool nights, dark skies, classic forest feel

    Cons -  Rising litter and human waste Nighttime safety concerns due to occasional rowdy visitors Limited ranger presence after dark

     I hope increased stewardship and enforcement can restore the magic here.

  • Kyle K.
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Stoddard Valley OHV

    Nothing special, low expectations and an open mind!

    This spot isn't anything special, but 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. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest. There is a vault toilet and some rock fire pits scattered around the area. I was there on a Wednesday, didn't see another soul except for the couple that pulled off the highway for a quicky, LOL! The highway isn't too far but the noise is pretty minimal. It was pretty sandy, but not too bad for a street motorcycle

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    East Flats

    Nice Peaceful Area

    Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

  • Nickchris G.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Horsemen's Center

    Horseman's center!

    Beautiful views of the entire city and never bothered by anyone, can do bonfires, and even camp right out my car.

  • DeWayne G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Big Rock camping

    Came out to Big Rock for the meteor shower in August. Yes, it was hot, but I like the heat. We set up our two-day camp along the ridge about 300 yards past Big Rock. Verizon Cell service was non-existent at our site, but we would get 5G at the Rock.

    Other than some graffiti the area was clean and well-kept.

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Barstow-Calico KOA

    Great stop on a cross country journey

    I’m just stopping to sleep, but this campground has friendly staff and good amenities. I’m parked under a canopy of trees, which must help on hot summer days.

    They had a general store, bath houses, cabins, dog park and more.

Guide to Apple Valley

Camping near Apple Valley, CA, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park. Reviewers mention, "This campground is very nice. The roads could use some work and if you have an RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Visit Ghost Towns: Check out Calico Ghost Town for a fun day of history and exploration. One visitor said, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through."
  • Water Activities: Spend a day at Lake Perris State Recreational Area. A camper shared, "Great overall experience, campgrounds are general and basic. A little more irrigation for the plants and trees might not hurt to green up a little dried."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Bonelli Bluffs. One review states, "Possibly the cleanest public bathroom I've ever seen."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Serrano. A visitor noted, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Dogwood, one reviewer said, "Camp hosts are friendly and knowledgeable."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area mentioned, "There was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."
  • Road Conditions: Access roads can be rough. A visitor to Black Rock Campground warned, "The roads in are narrow and absolutely terrible."
  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife, especially at Serrano. One camper advised, "Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Calico Ghost Town that offer activities for kids. A reviewer said, "On Easter they have an egg hunt divided by children's age groups."
  • Plan for Amenities: Make sure to check for facilities like clean restrooms and showers. A camper at Dogwood noted, "The place is clean and quiet."
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds can be quiet, pack games or outdoor activities. One family at Bonelli Bluffs mentioned, "We had to get creative in finding ways to occupy their time during downtime."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A visitor at Serrano said, "If you have an RV/Trailer/Van you may want some block to help get you level."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds, like Sawtooth Canyon, have no drinking water or electric hookups. A camper shared, "There are pit toilets but no other amenities."
  • Plan for Crowds: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Lake Perris State Recreational Area noted, "We arrived at 10:30 on a Friday night and it was only 35 degrees out and we still got the very last spot."

Camping near Apple Valley, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds in Apple Valley?

Apple Valley offers access to several campgrounds in the surrounding area. Mojave Narrows Regional Park is located near Victorville, just a short drive from Apple Valley. For those willing to venture a bit further, Applewhite Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest is about 5-7 miles from Highway 215, offering a natural setting amid the mountains. Other nearby options include Hesperia Lake Park and Campground, which is convenient for Apple Valley residents, and Bell Mountain Road, which offers free dispersed camping. Most campgrounds in the area provide essential amenities like toilets and water access, though availability varies by season.

How much does it cost to camp in Apple Valley?

Camping costs around Apple Valley vary by campground and amenities. At Serrano near Big Bear Lake, expect to pay moderate fees for sites with lake access and basic facilities. Holcomb Valley Campground charges fees that some campers consider slightly steep, but the clean facilities and camp host supervision justify the cost. For budget options, Bell Mountain Road offers free dispersed camping, though without amenities. Most developed campgrounds in the region range from $20-35 per night for basic sites, while premium locations with hookups or lake views can cost $35-50 nightly. Some campgrounds also charge additional vehicle fees or day-use fees for visitors, so check the specific campground's website before planning your trip.

What camping options are available near Apple Valley, CA?

The Apple Valley area offers diverse camping experiences within a reasonable drive. For RV and family camping, Bonelli Bluffs provides comfortable sites though limited playgrounds for children. Those seeking a unique experience might enjoy Calico Ghost Town, which offers simple sites tucked into a canyon below the historic ghost town with easy access to OHV trails. For a more natural experience, Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat is perfect for larger groups and offers necessary amenities despite requiring a 6-mile drive on dirt roads. Additional options include Hesperia Lake Park and Campground for fishing enthusiasts and several campgrounds in the San Bernardino National Forest for those seeking mountain escapes.

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