Best Tent Camping near Cima, CA
Dispersed tent camping dominates the landscape surrounding Cima, California, with multiple primitive sites scattered throughout Mojave National Preserve. Kelbaker Road Dispersed Camping offers free tent sites with fire rings approximately 10 miles from Interstate 15, while 17 Mile Camp provides established tent camping areas along the historic Mojave Road. Tank Six Camp and North Lava Tube Camp offer additional dispersed options within the preserve boundaries, with most sites requiring no permits or reservations.
Most tent sites in the Mojave National Preserve feature sandy, rocky terrain with minimal improvements beyond occasional fire rings. Campers should bring all necessary water supplies, as no drinking water is available at any of the dispersed sites. Vehicle access varies significantly - some areas like North Lava Tube Camp can be reached in standard vehicles, while others require high-clearance 4WD. One camper noted, "The road is sandy, rocky, and hilly with rivets and ruts. I made it in an AWD Subaru, but be careful." Fire restrictions change seasonally, so visitors should check current regulations before arrival. Cell service is surprisingly available at several tent sites, particularly along Highway 127 and at 17 Mile Camp.
Tent campers in this region experience exceptional night skies due to minimal light pollution. The primitive nature of these sites means complete solitude at many locations, especially at Tank Six Camp and more remote areas of the preserve. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for tent camping. Winter nights can drop to the 50s or below. Several tent sites are positioned near interesting geological features - North Lava Tube Camp provides easy access to explore lava formations, while other sites offer views of desert dunes and mountains. As one visitor described, "The campsite we chose past the little hill was not visible from other campsites and had a great view of the valley and mountains."
