The Helendale area sits at approximately 2,430 feet elevation in California's high desert region, offering a mix of desert landscapes and mountain views. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Camping options range from developed sites with amenities to more primitive locations, with several glamping accommodations providing comfort in this arid environment.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat offers direct access to therapeutic mineral waters. One visitor noted, "The deep creek hot springs were absolutely fabulous, as they were situated next to a cold creek where we could do therapeutic hot cold plunges. The hike to the hot springs was fairly tough, but we found it easily with the trail starting right on the property!"
Mountain biking: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites provides access to numerous trails. A camper mentioned, "The Exploration trail weaves around them up to the peak and makes a great hike and there are tons of climbing spots." Another added that it's "Worth the trip for sure" to visit the staffed fire lookout at the peak.
Historical exploration: Just 3 miles from Barstow-Calico KOA, visitors can explore Calico Ghost Town. One camper mentioned this location is "a good mileage stop between Las Vegas and SoCal" with "very easy access" to nearby attractions.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Mojave River Forks Regional Park offers spacious campsites. A visitor explained, "The campsites in the area where we were, were spacious and spread out. We liked very much not being on top of one another and appreciated how vast this campground is."
Natural water features: Lytle Creek runs behind Bonita Ranch Campground, offering cooling relief from desert heat. A camper noted, "The creek running behind the camp is great to explore, and a waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August."
Year-round accessibility: Many glamping options near Helendale remain open throughout the year, though weather varies significantly by season. A visitor to Deep Creek Hot Springs mentioned it has "35 sites with well-appointed yurts and canvas accommodations" and "the spring pools at our site were so relaxing to have all to ourselves."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. As one Deep Creek visitor warned, "You will have to drive 6 miles of mountainous dirt roads to reach the property, but it takes you away from all signs of the city and surrounds you in nature when you get there."
Extreme weather: Prepare for significant temperature fluctuations. A Mojave River Forks camper noted, "It was incredibly windy when we went in April 2021. In addition to the wind, it was very chilly in the evenings and through the night. Plan accordingly."
Limited facilities: Serrano Campground has clean facilities but visitors should note limitations. One camper advised, "Only thing they don't have is soap in the bathrooms so make sure you bring a container to take with you!!"
Reservation requirements: For popular glamping sites near Helendale, California, advance booking is essential, particularly for Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat with its 35 sites, as these accommodations fill quickly during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Serrano Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor mentioned, "This is a great place for families" and another added it has "Pokemon stops for the kids."
Cooling options: Summer temperatures can be extreme, so choose accommodations with shade or water access. At North Shore Campground, "The sites are well spaced, good tree cover. Very nice patch of land."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. One visitor to Keller Peak noted, "The Children's forest and Keller peak fire lookout are at the top giving you great info and great views."
Safety considerations: Not all sites are equally family-friendly. A Keller Peak visitor noted, "Rangers do come by and take down information of the leader of the group. They are very strict on parties are not allowed."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check the configuration of utilities before setting up. At Barstow-Calico KOA, an RVer found "the sewer drain being at the front end of the site" and had to "put an extension on my poop pipe."
Level sites: Many desert campgrounds have gravel pads that may need adjustment. A Barstow-Calico KOA camper mentioned, "The gravel pads are a bit different than most KOAs and don't create that fine white dust, which is a plus."
Temperature management: When glamping near Helendale in an RV, electricity for climate control is essential. One camper noted the "biggest draw here is the electricity to keep your A/C running in the high temps."
Road access: RVers should research routes carefully. A visitor to Bonita Ranch Campground called it a "Close enough to get away" location that's a "decent get away from LA" while still being accessible.
