Best Campgrounds near Hinkley, CA

Camping near Hinkley, California, offers a mix of unique experiences and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

• Explore Calico Ghost Town: This historic site is just a short drive from Calico Ghost Town. Visitors enjoy walking through the ghost town, with one camper noting, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through."
• Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Sawtooth Canyon Campground is a popular spot. One reviewer mentioned, "This is also a big rock climbing destination so you’ll have climbers coming in for the day."
• Hiking: There are plenty of trails around, especially near Mojave Narrows Regional Park. A visitor shared, "There are some cool hikes to explore in the riverbed area."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate cleanliness, especially at places like Barstow-Calico KOA. One guest said, "Clean. Has bathrooms and laundry."
• Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds, such as Shady Lane RV Camp, have been praised for their helpful staff. A reviewer noted, "The management has great customer service."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often enjoy the peacefulness of places like Sawtooth Canyon Campground. One visitor mentioned, "It was much quieter but early Monday in the am the trash picks up."

What you should know

• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Owl Canyon Campground, have rough access roads. A camper warned, "Nearly 5 miles of either hard washboard dirt road or loose sand that you can get stuck in."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. For example, Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground lacks drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor noted, "No water and no trash service - please pack your trash out!"
• Noise from Trains: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some campgrounds, like Mojave Narrows Regional Park, are near active rail lines. One camper said, "You'd better like trains! I stopped counting after I counted 24 trains lumbering by during our short overnight stay."

Tips for camping with families

• Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Calico Ghost Town offers special events like egg hunts on holidays. A family camper mentioned, "Your camping fee also covers access to these types of special events."
• Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Some campgrounds have larger sites that are better for families. One reviewer at Barstow-Calico KOA said, "Sites laid out well and most are pull through and accommodate big rigs."
• Bring Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack stores, it’s wise to pack snacks and drinks. A camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground noted, "There are pit toilets but no other amenities."

Tips from RVers

• Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Newberry Mountain RV Park mentioned, "The pads are new concrete and level."
• Be Mindful of Noise: If you're near highways or railroads, be prepared for some noise. One camper at Military Park Barstow Marine Corps Logistics Base Oasis RV Park said, "The parking lot is gravel... less than 5 inches of rain a year."
• Plan for Weather: Check the forecast before you go. A visitor at Sawtooth Canyon Campground advised, "Recommend this as a winter, early spring or late fall."

Camping near Hinkley, California, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!