Dispersed camping areas near Calico, California offer rustic accommodations on public lands managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management. These primitive sites sit at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 feet in the Mojave Desert. During winter months, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, creating significant thermal challenges for campers without proper gear.
What to do
Rock climbing activities: At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, visitors access numerous climbing routes. "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot," notes Les R.
Off-highway exploration: The desert terrain surrounding Calico provides extensive OHV opportunities. "Dirt Biking heaven! Our friends brought their toy-haulers and we played in the desert for a few nights," shares Heather L. about BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area.
Historical exploration: The region contains abandoned mining sites and historical landmarks. "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful," advises Edward W. who visited Holcomb Valley.
What campers like
Sunrise viewing spots: Desert mornings offer spectacular light conditions. "I missed the sunset but caught a beautiful sunrise," mentions Tyler D. at BLM Desert Site. Another camper, Erin V., confirms: "Great sunset and sunrise."
Cell service reliability: Unlike many remote camping areas, several Calico-area sites maintain strong connectivity. "Verizon had excellent reception, enough room between campers to run a generator without bothering anyone," reports John M. about Razor Road Dispersed Camping.
Seclusion options: For those seeking isolation, many dispersed areas provide opportunities to distance from others. "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," shares Rose G. about camping near Calico.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "The road up to the camp area is a bit rough. We were in a Sprinter and definitely nervous for parts," explains Allie N. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Wind exposure issues: The open desert provides minimal wind protection. "We stayed 3 nights, we might've stayed longer but the wind was terrible," notes Jack M. about the BLM Barstow area. At BLM Desert Site, Erin V. similarly reports: "Very windy."
Shooting activity nearby: Target shooting occurs in designated areas. "We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area," warns Laura M. about Ord Mountain Dispersed.
Litter management challenges: Unfortunately, trash accumulation remains an ongoing problem. "Lots of litter everywhere. It would be nice if people would haul out more trash than what they bring in. After all it is free camping," observes John M. at Razor Road.
Tips for camping with families
Natural exploration opportunities: Children enjoy the open space despite dusty conditions. At Cougar Buttes in Johnson Valley, "Beautiful rocky terrain with tons of single track for bikes and really challenging roads for jeeps, tons of history also in the area," reports Mike M.
Sand play awareness: Expect children to get dirty during desert adventures. "Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip," shares Allie N. about camping at Holcomb Valley.
Navigation markings: In the expansive desert terrain, keeping track of your campsite location becomes critical. Seth B. advises: "Just remember where you camped" when exploring from Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Weekend crowd considerations: For quieter family experiences, midweek visits offer advantages. "Arriving at the campground, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew," notes Seth B. about weekend crowds at Holcomb Valley.
Tips from RVers
Overnight positioning: Strategic parking can mitigate environmental challenges. "Wind was blowing, and we managed to park in behind a hill. Had a great night's sleep," explains Warren T. about his stay at Razor Road Dispersed Camping.
Road assessment: RVers should evaluate access routes carefully before committing. "Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps," advises Laura M. regarding access to Ord Mountain.
Size accommodation: Various sites can handle different rig dimensions. "This spot works well for big rigs, I am about 52 ft tip to tail and could turn around and park easily and get to a relatively flat spot in the dark," reports Savannah A. about Arrowhead Trail Dispersed.
