Best Tent Camping near Helendale, CA

Dispersed tent camping opportunities surround Helendale, California, with the Mojave Desert providing open landscapes for primitive camping experiences. Stoddard Valley OHV Area offers walk-in tent sites approximately 15 miles south of Helendale, while Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp provides free tent camping in San Bernardino National Forest about 35 miles to the southeast. Both locations allow fires in designated rings and permit alcohol and pets, though neither provides drinking water.

Desert tent campsites typically feature sandy or hard-packed soil with minimal natural shade. Campers should bring ample water supplies as drinking water is unavailable at most sites near Helendale. Vault toilets exist at Stoddard Valley OHV, but most dispersed camping areas lack facilities entirely. High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing the more remote tent campgrounds, particularly when venturing into the forest areas southeast of town. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer and fall months when wildfire danger increases. A camper noted that "the wind settled in the evening" at Stoddard Valley, indicating variable weather conditions that tent campers should prepare for.

The dispersed tent camping experience near Helendale offers solitude and night sky viewing opportunities uncommon in developed campgrounds. Areas farther from highways provide quieter environments, though some sites experience moderate road noise. A review of Stoddard Valley mentioned "desert camping under the stars is never a bad time," highlighting the appeal of these primitive sites. Campers seeking walk-in tent sites with more shade should consider Yellow Post Sites in the San Bernardino National Forest, though these require longer drives from Helendale. Most tent campgrounds in the region see minimal use on weekdays, making mid-week visits ideal for campers seeking solitude. Wildlife encounters are common, particularly in the forest areas, where proper food storage is essential.

Best Tent Sites Near Helendale, California (41)

    1. Stoddard Valley OHV

    3 Reviews
    Barstow, CA
    15 miles

    "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. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest."

    "Tucked right off the freeway it is easy to find and not to much noise from the main highway. It is HUGE. Tons of room to spread out."

    2. El Mirage Dry Lake

    2 Reviews
    Adelanto, CA
    15 miles
    Website

    "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. Reservations available at recreation.gov"

    3. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, MS
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 515-7525

    $10 - $119 / night

    "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it."

    "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

    4. Manker Campground

    13 Reviews
    Mount Baldy, CA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (626) 335-1251

    $12 / night

    "Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"

    "Tucked away at the top of a precarious winding mountain road. It is very basic, simple and beautiful."

    5. Adobe Boondocks Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Adelanto, CA
    20 miles
    Website

    $20 - $50 / night

    6. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    "This campground is free with 9 camp site on a 5 mile paved road, the site's have fire ring and picnic benches, no water. Bike trail is fun and a challenge. Camp site 1,3 & 6 are very quiet."

    "Some chairs, hammock, water, and utensils were left at the picnic table. Everything was dirty so we assumed they were left by previous campers."

    7. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 867-2009

    "After years of venturing into and around Lake Arrowhead (often a mere stop on my way to Big Bear/Fawnskin) I finally started exploring off the beaten path by accident last year and holy cow!"

    "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear."

    8. Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites

    13 Reviews
    Angelus Oaks, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    "These sites aren't monitored and don't have picnic tables or any amenities, although there is a restroom down the road a little ways where the campsites start, but that's it."

    "This particular site has 8 campsites which do have signs to mark the general area, although it is entirely up to you to where to set up camp in the general area."

    9. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    40 miles
    Website

    "There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent."

    "Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew."

    10. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    4 Reviews
    Wrightwood, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc) If both are yes, this place is amazing"

    "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Helendale, CA

793 Reviews of 41 Helendale Campgrounds


  • Tony  C.
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Little Jimmy Trail Campground

    Local gem of a campsite

    This campsite is located in California and is one of my favorites. Located above Crystal Lake you’ll find Little Jimmy, it’s a backcountry hike-in only campground nestled just 2 miles off the Angeles Crest Highway. It has around 7 first-come, first-served sites with fire rings, vault toilets (which are currently not in service), and vintage backcountry ovens. After parking at Islip Saddle, cross the highway and begin hiking for 2 miles up the switchbacks until you reach Little Jimmy Campground on your right. Popular with Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, this scenic spot offers a chance to get away from established campgrounds and live amongst the Coulter Pines and Big Doug Firs. Campers turned hikers have easy access to hop on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail which runs through the camp. There is no fee to camp here other than an Adventure pass for your parking. In the summertime, bears can be common visitors so make sure and secure your food in provided bear boxes or bring your own bear canisters. As always, make sure you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and pack everything in and out!

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2018

    Buckhorn Campground

    Most beautiful campground in the Angeles National Forest!

    We've wanted to camp here for so long, but we've never been able to get a spot. We finally did this weekend, and it fully lived up to our expectations. Because this campground is set within a ravine that has a stream during the rainier months, so the landscape feels very different than the other nearby campgrounds - very green with tall trees. The campsites have plenty of space between neighbors, so we felt we had privacy and weren't disturbed by any noise from other sites. Each site has a picnic table, firepit, and bear box for food storage. There is a water spigot at the campground, but the ranger advised that it's not potable.

    There's day parking at the end of the campground for the trailhead to Cooper Canyon Falls. In the summer the "waterfall" is barely a trickle, but the hike still has a nice stream and is worth doing.

  • Connie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Pine Knot Campground

    Nice Campground Close to Town

    This campground is located pretty much in town right off Summit Blvd, on a side street right next to Snow Summit. We stayed here a couple nights with our pop-up camper in site #17. Cost was $34 a night. We pulled in a little later than planned, around 7:30, there were about 10 other sites occupied with a few more reserved. There are 48 sites throughout the campground. All primitive sites. Generators are allowed, but must stay on paved areas, and not run during quiet hours, 10:00 PM- 6:00 AM. Sites have a picnic table, fire ring, grill and bear box provided. There are 4 bathroom houses around the campground with flush toilets and sinks, they were pretty clean and well kept. Potable water was available. We did hear the coyotes at night and even had one or two come through our site. Campfires are allowed at this campground as of Oct. 9, 2025. We had great T-Mobile and AT&T cell service. The camp hosts were friendly and helpful.

  • Michael A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    San Bernardino National Forest Crab Flats Campground

    5 Miles Dirt Road Off Highway YES

    Slow going on the dirt road but boy is it worth it. There are a couple of water spigots. Pack your trash out when you leave. Do not need 4WD to get there but it’s sure fun on all the truck trails if you do! Lots of trees and shade, 26 sites that are usually pretty full on the weekends. Vault toilets. Fire rings, bear boxes and picnic tables provide the basics. The drive out to the lake is also worth it if kids want to play in the water. Kayak and small boat rentals, fishing with stocked waters. All in all a great way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

  • Kayla H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2019

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Desolate, Beautiful rock formations, great hiking

    This campsite is on BLM land, you can stay up to 14 days. There a wide variety of campsites from single to group sites. Restrooms available. Some sites have shaded structures, picnic tables and fire rings. Popular spot for rock climbers, giant rock formations jet out from the ground. Great hiking and awesome spot in spring for some beautiful wild flowers. Would definitely go back in spring or fall months when not too hot.

  • S
    Aug. 21, 2021

    Dogwood

    Beautifully wooded sites

    This park has something for everyone. I used a site that provided electric. There are tent and dry sites throughout. While the sites are everywhere, they are spaced in a way that feels private. There are bear boxes, picnic tables and fire rings at each site. The bathrooms were clean, with flushing toilets. Places to get water are all over. There are so many hiking opportunities for every level.

  • C
    Jan. 22, 2022

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Rocks!

    Lots to climb. Lots of spots, some with standard set up (covered table, fire pit) others near big rocks with fire ring. Bring water. Multiple toilets.

  • K
    Apr. 6, 2017

    Owl Canyon Campground

    A slice of heaven if you sleep outside

    We found Owl Canyon a few years back and became enchanted with this place. About three miles of washboarded (but maintained) gravel road leads to a small campgroundwith exquisite rock formations and plenty of hiking trails leading off in all directions. The first time we were here, we were the only campers other than the adorable camp hosts who had taken the trouble to put small solar lights on the vault toilets and soap on a rope hanging from the water faucets. Unfortunately, they are no longer there and neither is the solitude. The camp had a wide range of campers from Coleman pup tents to Land Yachts. UCSB has a large research station where students come out and study geology and mapping. It was fun to chat with them and get infected with their enthusiasm. The weather was mild enough to sleep out under the stars. The night sky is stunning! Wind can be an issue as it was this last visit. Tents were challenged and I was woken up in the middle of the night by a levitated camp chair landing on me. i will guess if you go sometime after spring break and mid-week, the campground won't be as crowded. Toilets are clean, water is limited and the price is right. Make sure to take extra tarps and rope to rig up a wind break or two and you are sure to have a nice stay. .

  • Craig M.
    Sep. 2, 2020

    Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    Seemed closed, camped anyway

    Looks like I arrived at the peak of their off-season. Complete fire ban, including gas stoves. Trash littered the campground and only one bathroom open. Gates are closed, so you have to park on the street and walk in. Only two other tents in this giant, beautiful campground. I wish I knew when season was so I could see what the regular vibe is like. Several trails and lake access nearby.

    Cafe by the campground only has a handful of items, hamburger and hot dog and other basic stuff. Store was well stocked with junk food, but not much I would consider “camping supplies.”

    Overall it looked like a neglected campground and recreation area but during season it’s probably a fun place to be.


Guide to Helendale

Tent camping opportunities near Helendale, California extend through several ecological zones within driving distance. Most campsites sit between 3,000 and 7,000 feet elevation, creating temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between desert and mountain locations. Seasonal closures affect mountain camping areas during winter months, while desert sites remain accessible year-round with weather restrictions during extreme heat periods.

What to do

Rock climbing at dawn: 4×4 access required to reach Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, where tent campers find unlimited backcountry spots. A reviewer noted, "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."

Gold panning in historic sites: Bring equipment for creek exploration near the Big Bear area. A camper shared, "If you're into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful."

Night sky photography: Pack tripod and camera gear for El Mirage Dry Lake, about 30 minutes southwest of Helendale. The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for astrophotography, though be aware that "it can be windy at night so if you camp outside be prepared to be pelted by small rocks and sand all night."

Geocaching adventures: Multiple sites available throughout San Bernardino National Forest, especially in mountain camping areas. A visitor to Keller Peak mentioned, "Geocaching sites nearby. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout."

What campers like

Midweek solitude: Weekdays offer notably empty campgrounds at Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground, approximately 30 miles from Helendale. A visitor mentioned, "I went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

Cost savings: Free camping options exist in Yellow Post Sites across the San Bernardino National Forest. These first-come, first-served sites offer basic amenities. One camper at Thomas Hunting Grounds Yellow Post Campites shared, "I almost want to give this a 1 star review, just to keep it to myself a little longer. We loved this yellow post site, by far one of my favorites. Private but with cell service, tables and fire pits!"

Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate spacing at many of the dispersed areas. A Keller Peak visitor mentioned, "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."

Water recreation access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to lakes and streams. A camper at Green Valley Lake Recreation Area wrote, "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."

What you should know

Vehicle requirements: High clearance vehicles needed for most dispersed sites. Roads can be challenging after storms. At Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites, a visitor warned, "Specs of this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc. Great for campers that meet 2 criteria: 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping."

Supply planning: No water available at most sites. Bring 1-2 gallons per person per day. At Deep Creek, a camper noted, "Showers, pit toilet, running water, but it's 10$ a night. Hardly any shade unless you get a good site."

Seasonal considerations: Temperature extremes affect equipment needs. Summer desert camping requires shade structures and extra water; mountain camping may see snowfall even in spring. A visitor to Manker Campground shared, "We spent 3 days and 2 nights here and enjoyed our stay, the caretaker was so nice! Although the restroom are very dirty but overall it was a great stay!"

Site competition: Weekend availability extremely limited at popular sites. Arrive Thursday afternoon for best chances. A Stockton Flats visitor advised, "Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot."

Tips for camping with families

Beginner-friendly mountain sites: Lake Arrowhead area offers gentler introduction to Green Valley Lake Recreation Area. One family mentioned, "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear. Thankfully we found the Green Valley Lake campground!"

Wildlife observation opportunities: Dawn and dusk animal sightings common in forest areas. A Manker Campground visitor shared, "The San Gabriel Mountains are my favorite mountain range... the range offers tremendous diversity, encompassing granite peaks with stunning views, lush alpine forests of pine and cedar, lovely stream fed canyons lined with old growth oaks."

Short hiking options: Multiple family-appropriate trails available near established campgrounds. A family at Thomas Hunting Grounds mentioned, "Beautiful, private, and secluded. The campgrounds were wonderful... Beautiful hiking trails and wildlife. I didn't want to leave!"

Tips from RVers

Desert site preparation: Sand anchors essential for Stoddard Valley OHV, where winds can affect tent stability. A camper noted, "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."

Off-road vehicle management: Noise levels vary significantly by day at desert OHV campgrounds. El Mirage Dry Lake visitors should expect activity: "This place is huge! 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."

Smaller trailers only: Most forest roads accommodate campers under 25 feet. Access routes narrow significantly with curves and steep grades. At Green Valley Lake Recreation Area, a visitor advised, "Check in was a little confusing, the camp host was not at their station. So we just drove around and found our site and eventually ran into the camp host who was very kind and accommodating."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Helendale, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Helendale, CA is Stoddard Valley OHV with a 4.5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Helendale, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 41 tent camping locations near Helendale, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.