Tent camping near Daggett, California offers desert and mountain experiences with dramatic elevation changes ranging from 2,000 feet in the desert to over 7,000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F in the lower elevations, while mountain sites remain 20-30 degrees cooler. These diverse ecosystems create distinct camping environments within a 60-mile radius of Daggett.
What to do
Rock climbing access: At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, campers can set up near popular climbing areas. "Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed," notes camper Les R.
Soak in hot springs: The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground provides access to natural hot springs via a moderately challenging trail. "The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," explains reviewer For Y. The springs are clothing-optional and require a 2-mile hike from the campground.
Off-highway vehicle trails: Desert camping areas like South Soggy Dry Lake provide direct access to OHV recreation. "Soggy has a long and very rocky road getting into the lakebed area. There are many camping spots all along the shoreline that will accommodate any size rig. From there you can reach all that Johnson Valley has to offer," explains Mike M.
What campers like
Solitude and space: The dispersed sites at Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offer privacy without the constraints of established campgrounds. "There are lots of sites on this road. The closer you are to the road the more dust will get in your site from the vehicles passing. There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it's a site," explains camper Dee M.
Scenic lake access: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area provides a small-town lake experience. "The town is very small and cute. The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish. It is privately owned so you do have to pay to fish or swim, and you pay per person, so keep that in mind if you have a large group," notes Aleena S.
Minimal development: Many campers appreciate the primitive nature of the camping options. At Stoddard Valley OHV, reviewer Kyle K. explains, "This spot isn't anything special, but desert camping under the stars is never a bad time. Once the wind settled in the evening, I made some tea and read a book. I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are strictly enforced, particularly during summer and fall. "Fire restrictions were in place during our visit," notes Mon M. about Tanglewood Group Campground. Many dispersed sites require campers to obtain current fire information from ranger stations.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have no water or toilets. "Spots are interestingly laid out and some had little wooded areas that you actually camp behind, others had interesting ground layouts with multiple levels," explains Aleena S. about Green Valley Lake Recreation Area.
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires high-clearance vehicles. According to Francisco F. regarding Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn."
Tips for camping with families
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain sites can experience 30-40 degree temperature differences between day and night. "We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day," notes Seth B. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Select sites with amenities: For camping with children, Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites offer picnic tables and fire rings with more structure than fully dispersed camping. "Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. Many will fit multiple people easily," explains Kristil C.
Consider water activities: During summer months, combining tent camping with swimming access provides relief from heat. "Nearby there is Green Valley lake, just a couple miles up the road, you do have to drive there. The lake is very clean and has a lot of fish," mentions Aleena S.
Tips from RVers
Choose appropriate sites: Not all dispersed camping areas accommodate larger vehicles. At El Mirage Dry Lake, "the dry lake bed is where a lot of the off roaring happens, but there are lots of places to explore too. Be aware that it's very dusty," warns Alex P.
Plan for wind protection: Desert camping sites experience significant wind, particularly in evenings. "Note that it does get windy at night so if you camp outside be prepared to be pelted by small rocks and sand all night," cautions robherr about El Mirage Dry Lake.
Bring all supplies: No services exist near most dispersed camping areas around Daggett. According to Mike M. at Big Pine Flat Campground, the site is "set right next to a meadow at a forest crossing heading to Holcomb Valley, Victorville, Fawnskin, and Green Valley Lake" but requires campers to be fully self-sufficient.
