RV sites near Helendale, California offer varying camping opportunities in an area that transitions from high desert to mountain terrain. Most campgrounds sit between 2,000-6,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature differences between valley and mountain locations. Cell service coverage generally decreases with elevation gain, affecting connectivity for travelers needing to stay connected.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Bonita Ranch Campground provides access to trails leading to Bonita Falls. "A waterfall is a short hike away. We also lucked out finding berries in August," notes a camper at Bonita Ranch Campground.
Mountain biking: Skypark Camp RV Resort places visitors directly across from mountain biking trails. "Skypark is right across the street for mountain bikes. Lake Arrowhead is close for supplies or food," reports a reviewer who stayed at Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Fishing and boating: Holloway's Marina & RV Park offers boat rentals and lake access. "We rented a boat on Saturday and was great just to walk out on the dock with the kids. 4 hr rental was just enough. Make reservations for they sell out on the weekends," advises a visitor at Holloway's Marina & RV Park.
What campers like
Mountain views: High elevation campgrounds provide scenic vistas across valleys. "Views are incredible although to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small. I would skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," explains a camper from Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Secluded camping options: Yellow Post campsites offer more private alternatives. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out. It's right around the corner from my cabin so it's a great spot to get outside for the weekend without an epic drive," shares a visitor at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Swimming in creeks: Natural waterways provide relief during hot weather. "You're literally a box throw away from the creek if you're not really big on hiking but enjoy the scenery this would probably be a good way for you to experience the outdoors in the creek not really any fishing there but you could definitely enjoy the ice cold water on a really super hot day," mentions a camper at Bonita Ranch Campground.
What you should know
Military base access restrictions: Some RV accommodations have specific entry requirements. "Note that this area is an active military installation and reserved for armed services members and their families only! We stopped here looking for a place to camp for the night, and the very polite (but confused) MP advised us that the facility isn't open to the public," warns a visitor regarding Military Park Barstow Marine Corps Logistics Base Oasis RV Park.
Limited camping spots in some areas: Certain campgrounds have very few sites available. "The Red Hook Gate area contains only two RV sites with water, electric, sewer hookups, and picnic tables, making advance reservations essential," notes one source about camping options near Helendale.
Weather variations: Mountain locations experience significant temperature swings. "Weather is definitely colder than in the valley, got snow overnight in mid May. Had very bad but there at&t cell reception," reports a Keller Peak visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment amenities: Some campgrounds offer activities beyond camping. "There are outdoor games setup for adults and kids to play. The community firepits were also very lovely," shares a Skypark Camp RV Resort visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between locations. "Restrooms are very clean and each private room includes a shower. No randos," notes one camper at Skypark Camp RV Resort, while another visitor to a different campground described facilities as "aged but clean."
Safety considerations: Some yellow post sites have reported issues. "My last trip was frightening enough that I haven't returned. Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language," cautions a visitor to Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites.
Tips from RVers
Desert parking conditions: Terrain and pad types affect stabilizing equipment. "The units were spaced tightly together with a gravel pad and concrete patio. It was $45 but with GoodSam down to $40.50. Old park. Friendly staff," reports a camper at Shady Lane RV Camp.
Hookup configurations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Full hookups, concrete pads, picnic tables. Many full time campers parked with junk around them. The grounds need a ton of cleanup," states a visitor to Arabian RV Oasis.
Driving challenges: Mountain access requires caution with larger vehicles. "Make sure you take the back way up the mountain. It's no joke pulling a trailer up there," advises a Holloway's Marina & RV Park visitor who successfully navigated with a 265BH Transcend trailer.
