Best Dispersed Camping near California City, CA

Searching for the best camping near California City, CA? California City is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near California City, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near California City, California (20)

    1. Jawbone Canyon OHV Area — Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Cantil, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 384-5400

    "This is BLM land camping in an OHV area that we used for an overnight. For this purpose it was great. A paved road leads to endless dispersed camping options in a beautifully rugged canyon."

    "It can get really warm so we set up under a shaded tree which helped a lot. We had a fire pit for the evenings too, so that was nice.

    Lots of trails to ride - for beginners to advanced."

    3. BLM Desert Site

    3 Reviews
    California City, CA
    20 miles

    "I wasn’t sure when driving out here at night in a minivan, but the dirt road didn’t give me any trouble and I still had some service with Verizon."

    "Away from highway enough. Very windy. Great sunset and sunrise."

    4. Monarch-Rand Mine

    2 Reviews
    Red Mountain, CA
    23 miles

    "Is quiet up the hill about a half mile from where GPS said to stop. It’s on the right just past the rocks"

    6. Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    12 Reviews
    Ridgecrest, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 384-5400

    "Great place to dry camp(boondock). Love camping out here. Most of all it's free."

    "It’s literally a big open desert flat and you park wherever so there’s plenty of room for privacy. As far as facilities, there are 2 privies and that’s it, so you’ll be dry camping."

    8. Trona Pinnacles

    17 Reviews
    Trona, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 384-5400

    "I never knew this was here and grew up camping in California. Filming for the remake of Planet of the Apes happened here."

    "Free BLM dispersed camping here, so bring everything you need and take everything with you when you leave.

    The landscape is like no other."

    9. Stine Cove Recreation Site

    14 Reviews
    Weldon, CA
    44 miles
    Website

    "Good location. I would definitely do this again. I'm planning to stay for the full 14 days.

    Tip - Evening winds come from a westerly direction."

    "We love lake Isabella and just discovered this free camp spot right on the beach…"

    10. Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Lake Isabella, CA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 391-6000

    "You can park RVs right next to the water but it gets very busy, there are more secluded spots accessible to even Class A rigs further down."

    "We pulled in at night time around 10:30PM. I was scared it would be sketchy, but turned out to be a smooth dirt road. We encountered multiple other campers as well before we found a suitable turnout."

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Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near California City, CA

77 Reviews of 20 California City Campgrounds



Guide to California City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near California City, California, where you can enjoy the vast landscapes and serene environments. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape into nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near California City, California

Dispersed campers should check out Jawbone Canyon

  • The Jawbone Canyon OHV Area is known for its expansive space, making it ideal for those who want privacy while camping.
  • This area is popular for off-roading, with trails suitable for all skill levels, ensuring an adventurous experience for everyone.
  • Campers can enjoy campfires in the evenings, adding to the charm of the outdoor experience, although it's important to bring your own firewood.

Explore the remote beauty of BLM sites

  • The BLM Jawbone Canyon Dispersed Site is a free option that allows pets, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry friends.
  • With no amenities available, this site encourages campers to embrace the wilderness and practice Leave No Trace principles.
  • For those seeking a unique experience, Monarch-Rand Mine offers a fascinating backdrop of historical mining remnants alongside the natural beauty of the desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near California City, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near California City, CA is Jawbone Canyon OHV Area — Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area with a 3.8-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near California City, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near California City, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.