Best Campgrounds near Calico, CA

Camping near Calico, California, offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure. With several campgrounds in the area, you can enjoy the beauty of the desert while exploring the fascinating Calico Ghost Town.

What to do:

• Explore Calico Ghost Town: This historic site is a must-see. One visitor said, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through," while another noted, "It was fabulous," highlighting the charm of the area.
• Hiking: There are great trails around the campgrounds. One camper mentioned, "Nice hiking around," which makes it perfect for those who love to hit the trails.
• Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, check out the nearby rock formations. A reviewer at Sawtooth Canyon Campground said, "This is also a big rock climbing destination," making it a great spot for climbers.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate cleanliness. A visitor at Calico Ghost Town mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean and maintained," which is always a plus when camping.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One reviewer noted, "It was much quieter," after a busy weekend, showing that the campgrounds can be a serene escape.
• Full Hookups: For RVers, having full hookups is a big deal. A camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground appreciated the "full hook up - 40 dollars," making it a reasonable choice for those traveling with larger rigs.

What you should know:

• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor to Owl Canyon Campground warned, "Nearly 5 miles of either hard washboard dirt road," which can be tough for some vehicles.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. A camper at Afton Canyon Campground mentioned, "Community vault toilets were available," but advised bringing your own toilet paper.
• Noise Levels: Depending on when you visit, noise can be an issue. One camper at Barstow-Calico KOA noted, "The interstate is loud," which might affect your sleep.

Tips for camping with families:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. One reviewer at Calico Ghost Town mentioned an Easter egg hunt, making it a fun spot for families.
• Choose the Right Campsite: Some sites are better for families than others. A camper at Barstow-Calico KOA appreciated the "hammocks next to the pool," which can be a relaxing spot for parents while kids play.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at night. One family noted, "The second night was a Sunday. Everyone moved out and it was much quieter," which can be ideal for families needing rest.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sawtooth Canyon Campground mentioned, "The OHV pull-through site accommodated my 45-foot 5th wheel no problem," which is helpful for larger rigs.
• Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds lack basic amenities. A camper at Shady Lane RV Camp advised, "Please pack your trash out!" to keep the area clean.
• Stay Connected: If you need to work or stay in touch, check cell service. A visitor at Newberry Mountain RV Park noted, "We got 3 bars on Verizon," which can be crucial for RVers on the go.

Camping near Calico, California, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for your next outdoor getaway.