California City camping sits in the western Mojave Desert at roughly 2,000-2,500 feet elevation, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between seasons. Desert camping in this region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution, with campgrounds spread across BLM land and state parks. Campers should prepare for limited services and challenging terrain when accessing many of the dispersed sites.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Jawbone Canyon OHV Area offers exceptional night sky views with minimal light pollution. "The sunrise was beautiful!" notes camper Jessie F., who provides GPS coordinates (35.31333° N, 118.02982° W) for a prime viewing spot.
Morning hikes: Early day treks before temperatures rise provide the best desert experience. "Beautiful desert camping inside offroading area" with "beautiful hikes nearby" reports a camper at Dove Springs OHV Area. Most trails are best tackled before 10am when summer temperatures remain tolerable.
Visit nearby attractions: The Mojave Air & Space Port adjacent to Spaceport RV Park offers unique viewing opportunities. "Stop by its little park and cute, friendly restaurant where you can watch airplanes take off while having delicious fries or a milkshake," recommends Corinna B.
What campers like
Desert solitude: BLM lands provide quiet camping opportunities away from crowds. At BLM Desert Site, Tyler D. reports: "It's a great little secluded spot about 4 miles off the highway in the desert. I missed the sunset but caught a beautiful sunrise."
Accessibility for various vehicles: Many desert sites accommodate different vehicle types. "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," notes a BLM Desert Site reviewer.
Level camping spots: Ricardo Campground offers developed sites with good infrastructure. "The views from this campground are absolute stellar. The sites and pit toilets are clean and plenty of spaces were available," reports Michell C., noting the self-pay system and first-come, first-served policy.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds frequently affect camping comfort throughout the region. At Jawbone Canyon, James M. reports: "Wind was a problem and made sleeping hard. We camped in a 24' travel trailer with a high clearance truck."
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: OHV areas experience significantly different usage patterns depending on day of week. "Weekends are busy but weekdays are exceptionally peaceful," notes Judy46563 at Jawbone Canyon OHV Area.
Water availability: Limited access to potable water requires advance planning. "Weekdays generally provide a quieter camping experience with less OHV traffic, while weekends see increased activity, especially in designated off-highway vehicle areas."
Limited cell coverage: Signal strength varies widely across the area. At BLM Desert Site, campers report Verizon service, while at Borax Bill Substation, staff availability affects amenity access: "Office is only open th-tue, but staff roaming the area are very helpful. Dry camp the other days anywhere you want."
Tips for camping with families
Scout multiple sites: When camping with children, look for areas with natural shade opportunities. "Beautiful area with nice shady rock overhangs to stay cool during the day," reports Michelle W. about Ricardo Campground.
Timing considerations: For dog friendly campgrounds near California City, plan family visits during cooler months. "It is primarily for off road enthusiasts, however, we just came out here to enjoy the desert and go for walks. We would usually go toward the end of the year when it is not so hot (Oct-Dec)," advises Brett L. about dispersed camping options.
Pet-friendly trail options: Many camping areas welcome pets but require proper management. Ricardo Campground offers "clean and plenty of spaces" with pet-accessible areas, though leash requirements are strictly enforced.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sierra Trails RV Park offers convenient pull-through sites with utilities. "The front section of the park seems to be for stationary RViers, we got a spot at the back of the park, sites there are all pull Through in, this was very convenient with our towed. Water and 50amp on site," notes Edy K.
Dump services: Several facilities offer dump stations for non-guests at reasonable rates. "Handy stop for water & dump! $2 bucks for water & $5 bucks for the dump," reports Helen F. about Spaceport RV Park.
Vehicle clearance requirements: Access to many pet-friendly campgrounds around California City requires appropriate vehicles. "While not necessary, the larger truck was nice to have on the dirt portions. There are sites that would be accessible by car as well just be more discerning," advises James M. about Jawbone Canyon.
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