Best Campgrounds near Barstow, CA

Camping near Barstow, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and historical sites. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore Calico Ghost Town: This old mining town is a fun place to walk through and learn about the area's history. One visitor mentioned, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through," making it a must-see while camping at Calico Ghost Town.
• Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Serrano, have trails nearby. One camper noted, "There is a biking trail that goes through the campground that was well used."
• Rock Climbing: For those who love climbing, Sawtooth Canyon Campground is a popular spot. A camper shared, "This is truly an amazing spot... clean, quiet and spectacular views all around."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. One review for Dogwood said, "The place is clean and quiet. Our camp site was very spacious."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A visitor at Serrano mentioned, "The campground was clean, quiet, and had a decent amount of space between sites."
• Friendly Staff: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. A camper at Hanna Flat Campground said, "The campground hosts are super sweet and they give you a rundown of the whole campground once you get there."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at San Gorgonio noted, "While the campgrounds were packed, it was really quiet and not crazy busy."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have showers or markets. For example, Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground has no showers, and one camper mentioned, "The camp toilets were decently clean."
• Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Serrano warned, "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 campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Dogwood enjoyed the "great trail system" nearby.
• Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets for chilly nights. A visitor at Hanna Flat Campground mentioned, "It was cold enough at night but was absolutely perfect during the day."
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A camper at San Gorgonio noted, "The camp host was nice, and the bathrooms were clean."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground mentioned, "There are only about 20 spots here and it is popular."
• Bring Water: Some campgrounds, like Calico Ghost Town, do not have drinking water available. One visitor advised, "Please pack your trash out!"
• Watch for Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A camper at Serrano said, "Our sewer outlet was frozen in the morning, so we had to dump when we got out of the mountains."

Camping in Barstow, CA, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!