Tehachapi Mountain Park sits at 6,000 feet elevation in a pine forest, providing a cooler alternative to the high desert temperatures common in California City, which can exceed 100°F in summer months. The campground features multiple terraced sites tucked into the mountainside, with vault toilets and picnic tables available at each site. The surrounding area offers a mix of desert landscapes and mountain terrain for outdoor enthusiasts seeking overnight accommodations or extended stays.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Isabella: This reservoir approximately 70 miles northwest of California City offers fishing opportunities year-round. At Brite Lake Aquatic Recreation Area, anglers can fish right from shoreline campsites. "Brite Lake is a small lake but you can definitely catch some fish! You can camp right up to the water which was awesome," reports Chris B.
Hiking nearby trails: The Tehachapi area features multiple hiking paths for all skill levels. At Tehachapi Mountain Park, campers can access nearby nature trails. "The campground is known for its hiking trail to the top of Tehachapi's highest peak," mentions Mike Z., who also notes the availability of "horse trails to head on the trail."
Water activities: While swimming isn't permitted at all lakes, water recreation options exist nearby. Leo L. explains, "This place is incredible, with plenty of private spots due to the whole place being on the side of a mountain."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike many campgrounds with crowded layouts, some locations offer secluded camping spots. At Art Farm Nature Space, Tony O. notes, "This campground has so many options! Great walk-in secluded rustic camp sites, super social fun camp sites, secluded places to park vans and campers, and awesome gleaming cottages."
Star-gazing opportunities: The desert setting provides excellent night sky viewing. "The stars at night are the best I have seen," states Tony O. about Art Farm Nature Space, which features "an amazing western Saloon with Billiards and great vibe and Hooka Corner and some amazing Star Gazing!"
Mountain climate relief: The elevation change provides cooler temperatures during hot months. Shannon O. observes about Tehachapi Mountain Park, "It was 100 in Mojave and 70 in the TMP. Gorgeous tall evergreens and some larger oaks, a few might be old growth."
What you should know
Site selection timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Hungry Gulch, Jessica P. advises, "These camps do get full on holidays and in the summer so always reserve in time."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted vehicle access. Shannon O. cautions about Tehachapi Mountain Park: "This is not a place for large RVs or trailers. The road in is tight and twisty with no shoulders and some trees and rock faces snug up against it. The campground is very steep, the roads are one lane and very very curvy."
Noise levels vary: Campgrounds closer to California City can be louder on weekends. Abel C. recommends Hungry Gulch if "you're looking to get away from big crowds," but notes "you have to get there early if you want to get a shaded site."
