Best Campgrounds near Daggett, CA
The desert landscapes surrounding Daggett, California provide numerous camping options within the Mojave Desert region. Established campgrounds include Calico Ghost Town Regional Park, featuring tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations tucked into a narrow canyon just below the historic ghost town. The Barstow-Calico KOA, located approximately 10 miles northwest of Daggett, offers tent camping alongside RV sites with full hookups and glamping options. For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is available on nearby Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, including the Stoddard Valley OHV area and BLM Barstow Dispersed Camp Area.
Road conditions and accessibility vary throughout the region, with many campgrounds situated near Interstate 15 for convenient access. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in this high desert area, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping. Winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear. Campers should be prepared for limited shade and bring plenty of water, as drinking water is not available at many dispersed sites. Cell phone coverage is generally reliable near major highways but can be spotty in more remote areas. As one camper noted about Sawtooth Canyon Campground, "Fantastically convenient and minimal approaches to most climbs. Extremely busy on fair weather weekends, it's almost impossible to find a site after 1pm Friday."
Visitors consistently highlight the unique desert landscapes and geological features as primary draws to the area. Developed campgrounds provide amenities like flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, while dispersed sites offer more solitude but fewer facilities. Several mixed-use campgrounds accommodate both tent campers and RVs, with varying levels of hookups available. A recent review of Calico Ghost Town mentioned, "Small but Scenic Desert Campground... most of the campground is tucked into a narrow sort of canyon just below the Ghost Town. Sites are tightly packed and simple but the proximity to the ghost town, nearby OHV trails, and the ability to walk up out of the canyon for views make this a great spot." Off-road vehicle enthusiasts particularly appreciate the easy access to designated OHV areas, while others value the stargazing opportunities afforded by minimal light pollution in more remote camping areas.
