Best Dispersed Camping near Calico, CA
Multiple dispersed camping areas surround Calico, California, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The region features several free primitive camping options including BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area, Ord Mountain Dispersed, Bell Mountain Road, and Stoddard Valley OHV. These sites are typically located on desert terrain with minimal vegetation and offer varying levels of seclusion from highways and other campers. Most locations have no designated boundaries, allowing campers to select their own sites across the open desert landscape.
Access routes to dispersed camping areas near Calico consist primarily of dirt roads with varying conditions. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many locations, particularly Ord Mountain Dispersed and Holcomb Valley areas. Several campers note challenging road conditions, with one visitor reporting they "drove along one road and would alternate to try and avoid bad potholes." Most sites permit campfires in existing fire rings when no fire restrictions are in place, though firewood must be brought in. These areas provide no amenities—no water, toilets, trash service, or hookups are available. The standard 14-day camping limit applies to BLM lands in this region.
The desert landscape creates a distinctive camping experience characterized by wide-open spaces and dramatic sunrises and sunsets. Cell service is generally available at most sites, with one camper noting "Verizon had excellent reception" at Razor Road. Highway noise affects some locations closer to main roads, while others offer more solitude. "We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road," reported one visitor about Ord Mountain Dispersed. Unfortunately, trash accumulation is common at some sites, with reviewers frequently mentioning litter issues. Weather conditions can be extreme, with significant wind and temperature fluctuations between day and night, particularly during winter months when these areas see the most use.
