Best Campgrounds near Barstow, CA
Campgrounds near Barstow, California range from developed RV parks to primitive dispersed camping on public lands. The area includes established options like the Barstow-Calico KOA with full hookups and cabin accommodations, as well as the Calico Ghost Town Regional Park offering tent, RV, and cabin camping. For those seeking more remote experiences, BLM-managed areas provide free dispersed camping opportunities at Stoddard Valley OHV and designated BLM dispersed camping areas north of the city.
Desert camping conditions dominate the region, with minimal rainfall and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Most campgrounds remain open year-round due to the mild winter climate, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. A visitor noted, "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." Access to many dispersed sites requires vehicles with decent clearance, as sandy terrain and unmarked roads are common. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with better coverage near Interstate 15 and diminishing reliability in remote BLM areas.
Campers frequently mention the stargazing opportunities as a primary attraction for overnight stays in the Barstow area. The RV parks closest to town provide essential amenities like full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities, making them popular for travelers between Las Vegas and Southern California destinations. Reviews indicate that Shady Lane RV Camp serves as "a handy desert stop" for those needing an overnight rest with amenities. The more remote dispersed camping areas offer greater solitude but minimal facilities, typically limited to vault toilets if any infrastructure exists. Highway noise can be an issue at campgrounds near Interstate 15, but sites farther from major roads provide quieter experiences for those willing to venture deeper into public lands.
