Campers visiting Hinkley, California can find several established campgrounds and primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at the edge of the Mojave Desert at approximately 2,100 feet elevation, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F and winter nights can drop below freezing. The surrounding terrain features desert scrub vegetation with Joshua trees scattered throughout higher elevations, offering minimal natural shade at most campsites.
What to do
Hiking to natural hot springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground provides direct trail access to natural thermal pools. "The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," notes one visitor about the rocky terrain leading to the clothing-optional springs.
Visit historic sites: Located just 3 miles from Barstow-Calico KOA, Calico Ghost Town offers a glimpse into the region's mining history. "We decited to spend the night, they have all the nice things in the store, pool, quite place," reported one camper who used the KOA as a base for exploration.
Family recreation areas: Mojave River Forks Regional Park offers spacious sites with multiple hiking options. A recent visitor noted, "We found the campground to be very clean and well-maintained. The toilet facilities were also very clean and did not smell."
What campers like
Convenient amenities: Even in this remote desert location, Newberry Mountain RV Park offers full hookup sites with concrete pads. "The campground (CG) was super easy to find as it was right off I-40 on old Route 66. Our check-in could not have been easier, and the reception was very nice," explains one reviewer.
Water features: Some glamping properties near Hinkley include small ponds or pools to offset the desert heat. One visitor to Newberry Mountain mentioned, "The old caboose, the Hwy 66 hotel mural, and the ducks around the pond were a nice touch."
Stargazing opportunities: The desert darkness provides exceptional night sky viewing. At Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, campers appreciate the isolation: "There are only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors. Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks."
What you should know
Weather extremes: The Mojave Desert experiences dramatic temperature swings. At Arabian RV Oasis, a camper noted, "Level sites, electric (30 used) water and sewer. Little shade - over 106 when there late Aug."
Limited water access: Most dispersed camping areas require bringing all necessary water. At Deep Creek Hot Springs Camp Retreat, facilities include "drinking water, fires allowed, firewood, pets allowed, picnic table, reservable, showers, toilets, trash."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during cooler months. "It's a nice pool and other kids to play with. Great game room with pool, foosball, air hockey etc. big playground and easy campground to bike around," noted a family who secured a spot at Barstow-Calico KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some glamping sites near Hinkley offer child-specific amenities. A visitor to Serrano shared, "We had a double spot and it was very spacious which is what we were looking for because we had 5 kids, 4 dogs, and 7 adults."
Educational opportunities: Use the desert landscape for learning experiences. "Hike up to the watch tower and check out all the hummingbirds!" recommended a camper at Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, referring to the nearby fire lookout.
Cooler weather planning: Schedule family trips during spring or fall. One camper at Serrano reported, "We were in Serrano for 2 night past Memorial Day and it was wonderful. The campsites are clean, have clean bathrooms/shower access, and they sell firewood for $10."
Tips from RVers
Cell service considerations: Mobile reception varies widely throughout the area. At Mojave River Forks Regional Park, visitors reported, "T-Mobile signal was poor and Verizon and AT&T cell signals were slightly better."
Hookup logistics: Many RV sites offer full services despite remote locations. "We had full hookups and check-in was easy. Our near-end site was great for our dogs since no one was booked at the end so we had plenty of space," noted a traveler at Newberry Mountain RV Park.
Accessibility concerns: Some glamping facilities near Hinkley require navigating dirt roads. "Rough ride in but totally worth it," commented a visitor about Deep Creek, highlighting the need for appropriate vehicles when accessing some sites.
