Primitive camping near Cima, California offers solitude in one of the most remote sections of the Mojave Desert at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet. The area features desert valleys dotted with Joshua tree forests, volcanic cinder cones, and granite formations that create natural wind barriers for campers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer days often exceed 100°F.
What to do
Hike to vistas: Teutonia Peak trailhead borders several camping areas and provides access to panoramic desert views. At Mojave Cross Dispersed, "The best sites are the two right around the White Cross Memorial boulders... Amazing star gazing in the dessert with very little light pollution."
Explore lava formations: Located about 10 miles from Interstate 15, the lava tubes offer accessible geological exploration. According to a camper at North Lava Tube Camp, "The trails are well marked and one can explore the Lava Tubes which is just across the dirt road and easy access. It's hot even in spring so bring a lot of water - more than you think you need."
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot desert wildlife including wild burros. One visitor to Kokoweef Dispersed Camping noted, "This location was secluded and quit when I was there in January. There were two burros in the area which were fun to witness."
What campers like
Rock formations: Natural granite formations create sheltered camping spaces throughout the region. At Indian Springs near lava field, campers appreciate "Quiet nobody else around, a lil tricky to find if you don't plug in coordinates. Found a spot a past reviewer had a picture of, in a little cove in the lava rocks which had some nice shade for my pup."
Dark skies: The remote desert setting offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. A visitor to Kelso Dunes Dispersed shared: "Stargazing at this site was outstanding. Rock formations provide comfortable platforms for laying on your back and watching for shooting stars."
Isolation: Most campsites provide significant privacy and separation from other visitors. According to one camper, "The dispersed sites are spacious and fairly well kept up. Watch out for deeper sand that will sink you in good, they are easy to miss after dusk."
What you should know
Cell reception: Service varies dramatically across the Mojave National Preserve. A camper at Granite Pass Dispersed Roadside Camping reported, "Don't plan on having cell service--it's pretty much non-existent in this area," while others note adequate coverage at some locations.
Fire regulations: Fire rules vary by season and location. "Check the sign on the way into the preserve to make sure fires are allowed that day. Firewood can be purchased at the market in Baker."
Weather preparation: Desert temperature swings can be extreme. One camper noted, "I was there towards the end of April and it was in the 90's and sunny during the day, a hot breeze coming from the west. At night, it was clear and starry and a low around 65."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: The desert environment requires extra precautions. A camper warns, "WATCH OUT FOR SNAKES. I had a fire and it was great to sit, relax, and stargaze."
Kid-friendly activities: Sand dunes provide natural recreation areas. "Kids will love it. Pretty rough road coming in but easy to find a place to camp. Trail to dunes are close by. The trail to the dunes is deceptively far. Bring lots of water."
Learning opportunities: The preserve offers unique geological features for educational experiences. "The Kelso dunes are no joke. 600' climb in elevation in deeeeeeeep sand that's been accumulating for 25k years... If you have kids think worlds tallest sand slide and take a sled of some sorts."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some areas offer more suitable spots for larger vehicles. At Black Canyon, a visitor noted, "No facilities, but beautiful quiet place to spend the night. No one else there, rings provided for fires."
Road access concerns: Many side roads require careful navigation. "We stayed here with our 30 ft RV. The road to the camp sites was a bit bumpy but we managed to park just fine even arriving after dark."
Turnaround space: Some roads have limited options for larger vehicles to change direction. "A word of caution, it is not easy to turn around because it's very sandy... The site we chose was not visible from the other campsites and it had a great view of the valley and the mountains."
