Best Dispersed Camping near Hinkley, CA

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Hinkley, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Hinkley, California (22)

    1. Stoddard Valley OHV

    2 Reviews
    Barstow, CA
    11 miles

    "There is a vault toilet and some rock fire pits scattered around the area. I was there on a Wednesday, didn't see another soul except for the couple that pulled off the highway for a quicky, LOL!"

    2. BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area

    4 Reviews
    Joshua Tree National Park, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 252-6000

    "There are several sites at this location that each can hold 5-7 RVs. Each of the sites has a primitive fire ring, but there is no wood in the area, so bring your own."

    3. BLM Desert Site

    4 Reviews
    California City, CA
    22 miles

    "I wasn’t sure when driving out here at night in a minivan, but the dirt road didn’t give me any trouble and I still had some service with Verizon."

    "Away from highway enough. Very windy. Great sunset and sunrise."

    4. Bell Mountain Road

    2 Reviews
    Apple Valley, CA
    20 miles

    "There is some garbage, target shooting in the distance and the occasional maniac driving through too fast and kicking up lots of dust. Generally it was quiet."

    "many Trucks at night. don't drive to the campground just search a space after road ends"

    5. Ord Mountain Dispersed

    1 Review
    Daggett, CA
    22 miles

    "I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location.  "

    6. Monarch-Rand Mine

    2 Reviews
    Red Mountain, CA
    24 miles

    "Is quiet up the hill about a half mile from where GPS said to stop. It’s on the right just past the rocks"

    9. Trona Pinnacles

    17 Reviews
    Trona, CA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 384-5400

    "I never knew this was here and grew up camping in California. Filming for the remake of Planet of the Apes happened here."

    "Free BLM dispersed camping here, so bring everything you need and take everything with you when you leave.

    The landscape is like no other."

    10. Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    12 Reviews
    Ridgecrest, CA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 384-5400

    "Great place to dry camp(boondock). Love camping out here. Most of all it's free."

    "It’s literally a big open desert flat and you park wherever so there’s plenty of room for privacy. As far as facilities, there are 2 privies and that’s it, so you’ll be dry camping."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hinkley, CA

59 Reviews of 22 Hinkley Campgrounds


  • Emily C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2025

    Monarch-Rand Mine

    Quiet, Peaceful

    Quiet place, we only saw one other set of campers. The warm sun the next morning was beautiful but there is next to no vegetation. Additionally, this campsite has nothing so take what you need and leave no trace! It worked for a night. The road in is kind of weird as it runs parallel to another road similar, we drove along one and would alternate to try and avoid bad potholes. Some are inevitable and I would imagine high clearance is needed to access.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2023

    East Mojave Camp

    Very very remote

    Very remote absolutely nothing out there. Definitely somewhere you need to be aware of your surroundings. You can get far enough away from the highway that you don’t need to worry about people driving by. There is nothing out here. The road to it is unmarked and very unmaintained Would definitely recommend high clearance vehicle if you want to be further away then 100 feet from the highway. Lots of wash outs. Beautiful sunrise. We were the only people there.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 10, 2025

    BLM Desert Site

    Great spot

    I wasn’t sure when driving out here at night in a minivan, but the dirt road didn’t give me any trouble and I still had some service with Verizon. It’s a great little secluded spot about 4 miles off the highway in the desert. I missed the sunset but caught a beautiful sunrise.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Ord Mountain Dispersed

    Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600

    I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location.  This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.

    We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area. 

    Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.

  • Amy and Alan R.
    Nov. 24, 2020

    Trona Pinnacles

    Magical Landscape

    A very out of the way place to plant yourself if you are looking for space. I never knew this was here and grew up camping in California. Filming for the remake of Planet of the Apes happened here. There is so much room and a huge choice when camping here, there isn’t however, potable water or shade unless you bring your own. Amazing views and stunning sunsets. Pretty decent star gazing as well, tho there are lights from Trona it’s self and a glow of light on the horizon to the south. We spent a few days camping with family here. It’s easy to social distance when you need binoculars to see most of the fellow campers in the area. There is one pit toilet at the main parking area and some people to camp there as well. Close to Spangler Hills Off Rd area as well.

  • 07JKRedrock S.
    Apr. 20, 2021

    Trona Pinnacles

    Felt like I was in a sci-fi flick

    Really enjoyed staying at the Pinnacles over the weekend. Free BLM dispersed camping here, so bring everything you need and take everything with you when you leave.

    The landscape is like no other. Felt like Skywalker or Spock was going to walk around a formation at any minute. Very cool vibes out there.

    A bit breezy when we stayed in mid-April but nothing outrageous. Temps were warmer and we had our own shade.

    Somebody commented it's the type of dust that sticks to everything and they were right.

    If you have the option, air down your tires at the trailhead of the Trona dirt road. It makes the last 5 miles much more comfortable.

  • Terry V.
    May. 30, 2021

    Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    Quiet, secluded, star gazing

    Great place to dry camp(boondock). Love camping out here. Most of all it's free.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    Site of gold discovery in the 1800s.

    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. Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn’t many other vehicles around the times I’ve been out there. Nice scenery and peaceful.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2018

    Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    unlimited backcountry camping

    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. Dogs are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly.


Guide to Hinkley

Discover the thrill of dispersed camping near Hinkley, California, where you can immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the desert landscape. With a variety of options available, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Hinkley, California

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area, allow campfires and pets, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to enjoy the outdoors together.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions, especially in areas such as BLM Desert Site, where the open landscape can amplify the breeze, so secure your gear accordingly.
  • Since these sites often lack amenities, remember to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out your trash to keep the area pristine.

Off-roading adventures while free camping near Hinkley

  • For those who love dirt biking, BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area is a popular destination, offering ample space for RVs and off-road vehicles.
  • The area around Ord Mountain Dispersed is ideal for ATV enthusiasts, providing wide-open spaces perfect for riding and exploring.
  • If you're looking for a lively atmosphere, consider visiting nearby Slash-X Cafe after a day of riding, where you can enjoy live music and a cold drink.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • The BLM Desert Site offers stunning sunsets and sunrises, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation.
  • Campers at Cuddeback Road Dispersed Camping can enjoy the vast desert landscape, perfect for stargazing on clear nights.
  • The open surroundings of Ord Mountain Dispersed provide a peaceful retreat, allowing you to connect with nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hinkley, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hinkley, CA is Stoddard Valley OHV with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hinkley, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near Hinkley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.