The Mojave Desert surrounding Baker, California sits at elevations between 1,000 and 4,000 feet, creating temperature variations of up to 30°F between valley floors and higher campgrounds. This region averages less than 2 inches of rainfall annually, making water availability a critical consideration. Spring winds can reach 50+ mph in open areas, particularly in March and April.
What to do
Hiking nearby canyons: The Afton Canyon area, 4 miles from I-15, offers several desert hiking trails with views of the only above-ground section of the Mojave River. "There is a water spigot near the first site on the left when you enter the camping area. The keyhole shaped road does allow for an easy turnaround if you're towing a small trailer," notes a visitor at Afton Canyon Campground.
Desert stargazing: Baker's minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. "Gorgeous open plains/canyons make for awesome star watching. Nearest city about 1 and a half out with lights," explains a camper at Mid Hills Campground in the Mojave National Preserve, approximately 60 miles from Baker.
Mineral soaking: Multiple hot springs in the region provide therapeutic mineral waters. "Hot tubs and pool were gorgeous, great views, friendly staff. The private indoor hot tubs with showers were an extra bonus," reports a visitor at Delight's Hot Springs Campground, located about 45 miles from Baker.
What campers like
Desert wildlife encounters: The high desert ecosystem supports diverse animal populations visible from campsites. "We saw some great wildlife when we came across a few deer and a gorgeous jack rabbit! The sunsets were unreal!!!" shares a camper from Mid Hills Campground, where elevation keeps temperatures cooler than valley floors.
Off-road exploration: The surrounding desert provides extensive trail networks for OHV enthusiasts. "It's a beautiful ride up the groomed dirt road, but there are definitely some steep and curved spots. Definitely not big rig friendly!" notes a reviewer at Afton Canyon Campground, where many visitors use the campground as a baseout for desert excursions.
Privacy between sites: At Newberry Mountain RV Park, campers appreciate the site layout. "We were only here one night but we had a nice stay. We left the windows open since it was great evening weather. Our near-end site was great for our dogs since no one was booked at the end so we had plenty of space," mentions a visitor to this rv park near Baker, California.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong desert winds affect camping comfort in open areas. "Winds blew down my tent and I had to sleep in my car. Left next morning," reports a camper at Afton Canyon Campground, highlighting the need for secure tent setups or wind-protected sites.
Water sources: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water. At Razor Road Dispersed Camping, 15 miles from Baker, visitors must bring all water needs. "Several firepits, leveled big area. You can continue on this dirt road to get farther from the freeway to get a quieter sleep," notes a visitor describing the basic amenities.
Limited services: Baker offers minimal supplies, with Pahrump, Nevada (45 minutes away) being the nearest full-service town. "The closest town with all the regular services is Pahrump Nevada, about 45 minutes away," advises a camper at Delight's Hot Springs Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Temperature planning: Schedule family visits during spring or fall when daytime temperatures range 70-85°F. "Temps are decent, even in January (mid-30s for lows) and perfect in April. Tree cover is still a bit sparse and hiking options are limited, but it's a great place to set up camp and do absolutely nothing," suggests a visitor to Mid Hills Campground.
Entertainment options: Many rv parks near Baker, California offer recreational facilities. "Nice litle jam with 2 lakes and pool," writes a reviewer about Newberry Mountain RV Park, providing water activities in an otherwise dry landscape.
Site selection for wind protection: Choose campgrounds with natural barriers. "I choose this site for its privacy. Boy I should have considered the hill for the wind factor. My fault. But overall great camping experience. Just a little windy at night," recommends a camper at Mid Hills Campground, suggesting sites 11 and 24 for wind protection.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to remote camping areas require careful navigation. "Nice spot off the main road about 100 ft down the dirt road on the left. It's a turn around that's not used anymore. Mountains in every direction. Easy in and out with bumper pull trailers. Bushes did pop a tire so watch that," cautions a visitor to Mojave Preserve.
Dump station availability: Plan waste management carefully as facilities are limited. "They had a shower house and laundry, but we did not use them. Heads up that we got diesel at the exit a couple of miles west of the campground, and that was the most expensive price we experienced in CA at $6.69/gallon last January," notes a camper at Newberry Mountain RV Park.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across camping areas. "There are hiking, biking, and ATV roads just off the property, in addition to a few other locally maintained hot pools, so you can get out and enjoy the desert. The resort offers flush toilets and hot showers as well as some pretty slow wifi closer to the office. We had pretty spotty Verizon service in the area," reports a visitor to Delight's Hot Springs Campground.
