The San Bernardino Mountains and surrounding desert near Hinkley offer tent camping opportunities with elevations ranging from 2,900 to 7,000 feet. The region's unique transitional ecosystem creates distinct camping conditions where Joshua trees and pine forests can be found within a short drive of each other. Temperature variations between day and night often exceed 30°F, particularly in dispersed camping areas.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp provides a base for rock climbing enthusiasts with nearby boulder fields. "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot," notes reviewer Les R.
Gold panning history: Holcomb Valley preserves mining history where campers can try their luck. "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," shares Edward W. at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Hot springs soaking: Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground offers natural hot springs accessible by hiking. "The hike down is super chill and the hot springs at the end are so worth the hike back up after," writes Carina M. The springs are clothing-optional according to Jake P., who adds: "If you don't mind naked people, or you wanna strip down yourself, you should go check it out." Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground charges $10 per night.
What campers like
Desert stargazing: Stoddard Valley OHV provides unobstructed night sky views. "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," writes Kyle K. at Stoddard Valley OHV.
Mountain solitude: Site spacing at Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites ensures privacy. "I really dig these spots because they are well spaced out," notes Lynn C. about Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites, while another camper adds there are "only 9 sites stretched across 5 miles so you will have no neighbors."
Fishing access: Several tent campsites near Hinkley, California provide fishing opportunities. Anthony K. describes Fishermans Group Campground as having "easy stream access with fish" and the site requires hiking in, making it less crowded. Green Valley Lake Recreation Area is "super close to the lake" according to Alisa B., though Bradley W. notes the lake requires "an entry fee" and is "a twenty minute car ride" from the campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Stockton Flats, Nathaniel C. reports: "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." The reviewer warns incorrect specifications list amenities that don't exist: "no toilets/water/etc." Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites has poor road marking according to Joe R.: "The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off."
Weather extremes: Mountain areas experience sudden weather changes. Seth B. reported camping at Holcomb Valley in April with "still a little bit of snow," while Big Pine Flat Campground is only open May through October due to winter conditions.
Local interactions: Some campers report territorial issues. At Keller Peak, Bruce R. had a concerning experience: "Late at night a group of locals came to the edge of my site, yelling and using threatening language. They assumed I was homeless despite my SUV and proper camping setup."
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming: Green Valley Lake Recreation Area offers a small lake suitable for families. Aleena S. shares: "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, so keep that in mind if you have a large group." Green Valley Lake Recreation Area is described as a "lovely little place" by Alisa B.
Exploration opportunities: Big Pine Flat Campground provides access to multiple recreation areas. Mike M. notes it's "set right next to a meadow at a forest crossing heading to Holcomb Valley, Victorville, Fawnskin, and Green Valley Lake. There are shooting ranges, OHV trails, Jeep trails, hiking, you name it."
Sand preparedness: Pack extra cleaning supplies for kids at sandy sites. Allie N. says about Holcomb Valley: "Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many forest roads limit RV size. Joe R. warns about Stockton Flats: "We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great."
Designated OHV areas: El Mirage Dry Lake allows RVs with easy access to off-road recreation. Alex P. describes it as "huge! The dry lake bed is where a lot of the off roaring happens, but there are lots of places to explore too." However, they caution: "Be aware that it's very dusty, obviously the large amount of OHV vehicles causes a giant dust cloud, and it can be windy so the sand gets picked up even more." El Mirage Dry Lake rates 3.5/5 stars.
Brake management: Mountain driving requires careful downhill techniques. Joe R. shares a warning about steep grades: "On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out our brakes."
