Best Dispersed Camping near Barstow, CA
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands surrounding Barstow, California provide multiple dispersed camping opportunities in the Mojave Desert. Several free primitive sites are available including BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area, Ord Mountain Dispersed, Stoddard Valley OHV, Bell Mountain Road, and Stoddard Wells Road. These areas typically feature open desert terrain with minimal vegetation and few natural barriers between sites. Most locations permit camping without reservations or fees, though campers should verify current regulations before arrival.
Access roads to many dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several reviewers noting potholes, washboard surfaces, and occasional steep sections. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching more remote locations, though some areas like Bell Mountain Road accommodate standard vehicles when conditions are dry. Most sites lack basic amenities—no drinking water, toilets, trash service, or designated fire rings are provided. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during high fire danger periods.
The desert landscape offers expansive views and relative solitude, particularly at sites farther from highways. Visitors report varying experiences with noise levels—some areas remain peaceful while others experience occasional disturbance from OHV activity, especially on weekends. Cell service is generally available throughout the region, making these sites practical for remote workers. Weather conditions can be extreme, with significant wind and temperature fluctuations. According to one visitor at BLM Desert Site, "The warm sun the next morning was beautiful but there is next to no vegetation. This campsite has nothing so take what you need and leave no trace." Another noted, "We stayed here for one night and it was a great spot, really quite. The road was a little rough to get to where we stayed but no issue in our van aside from being a bit bumpy."