Camping options near Daggett, California extend throughout the high desert region where elevations range from 1,800 to 2,500 feet. This Mojave Desert area receives less than 5 inches of rainfall annually, creating an arid landscape punctuated by rocky formations and sparse vegetation. Winter temperatures can drop below 25°F at night, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature swings even within a single day.
What to do
Explore mining history: Located near Calico Ghost Town Regional Park, visitors can hike into abandoned mines and mountain areas. "Great hiking into the mountain and mines," notes Michael M., who visited with scout troops, though he mentioned tent camping was challenging on the rocky terrain.
Ride off-highway vehicles: The desert terrain provides extensive OHV opportunities, especially in Stoddard Valley. "Razrrrr city!! Super cool ghost town, and really family friendly!" writes Brittney C. about the areas near Calico, adding that despite some COVID restrictions during her visit, "this place isn't shy of family fun!"
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for night sky viewing. "I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest," shares Kyle K. about camping at Stoddard Valley OHV, noting the highway noise is "pretty minimal" despite proximity to major roads.
What campers like
Desert canyon scenery: The unique geological formations attract photographers and nature enthusiasts. At Owl Canyon Campground, campers appreciate the distinctive landscape. "Hidden back in white limestone hills, this little gem is not very busy. Campsites have shaded tables and are set a bit farther apart," writes Kate O., who found the experience worth the rough drive in her campervan.
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the low-cost sites. "Nice camping pas cher 6$ la nuit, pas d'eau, pas d'électricité ni de vidage mais calme, vue et étoiles merveilleux," reports Tanguy S. about Owl Canyon, highlighting the tradeoff between amenities and cost for a peaceful experience.
Proximity to attractions: Many campsites near Daggett serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. "You can't beat having a campsite AND you can enter the ghost town either by foot or drive to the ghost town's parking lot. Your camping fees include all that," explains D.T. about staying at Calico Ghost Town, emphasizing the value of combined admission.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campsites require navigating unpaved roads that can be challenging. "The road in is bad….. but it really is doable. It seems to get less awful each time we do it," says Laura M. about Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground, suggesting visitors "keep your speed under 10mph" for a smoother drive.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal amenities. "There are no toilets or water either... There was a bathroom with showers nearby, fire ring and hook-ups," explains Mark W. about BLM dispersed camping areas, while Christy C. describes Calico as having "bathroom with showers nearby, fire ring and hook-ups."
Weather extremes: The high desert climate creates challenging conditions year-round. "We stayed 3 nights, we might've stayed longer but the wind was terrible," reports Jack M. about BLM dispersed camping, while Michele H. appreciated the "Dark nights. Very quiet" atmosphere despite the "5 mile washboard road in!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: For families, developed sites offer important amenities. At Barstow-Calico KOA, Jennifer H. reports "the kids loved the pool and other kids to play with. Great game room with pool, foosball, air hockey etc. big playground and easy campground to bike around."
Pack for temperature swings: Desert temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. "I kept wondering when a coyote or some other wild animal was going to show up," shares Christy C. about camping at Calico Ghost Town, adding that "It is a desert like area with few trees" which affects temperature management.
Bring entertainment: Limited natural shade means having activities for midday heat. "The hikes through the colored rocks are so pretty," notes Laura M. about Rainbow Basin, adding that their family incorporated trash cleanup into daily activities: "part of our daily activities when we stay here is walking around with our trash pickers."
Tips from RVers
Consider hookup options: Full-service RV sites provide comfort in extreme weather. At Shady Lane RV Camp, James L. reports "The sites are tight, but far enough apart for good air and personal separation. The electric, water and sewer worked fine," though he noted "The Wi-Fi was weak and kept disappearing."
Budget for utilities: Many campgrounds charge extra for amenities. "There are 253 different sites. There are primitive sites, only electric sites as well as full hook up sites," explains SmallRVLifestyle V. about Calico Ghost Town, adding "Section A came with the full hookup, I saw mainly large class A RVs parking there."
Plan dump station access: Not all facilities welcome non-guests. Laura M. notes about Shady Lane: "We stopped here to use their dump and fill our water tanks, and were directed to the Flying J south of town. The staff person told me that all the RV parks in this area operate this way."
