Dispersed camping sites near Inyokern, California occupy a transitional zone where the Mojave Desert meets the Sierra Nevada mountains at approximately 2,400 feet elevation. The region experiences significant seasonal shifts, with spring wildflower blooms contrasting sharply with summer temperatures that routinely reach 110°F between June and September. Most dispersed camping locations sit on public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management with 14-day stay limits.
What to do
Explore geological formations: At Trona Pinnacles, unusual tufa spires create an otherworldly landscape. "If dispersed camping is what you're looking for you're in luck. We drove in and found camping pretty easily on a Saturday evening. 360 views no matter what spot you choose," notes Calli G. The site requires preparation as another visitor warns, "It's the type of dust that sticks to everything."
Hiking opportunities: The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the region near Walker Pass Campground, offering day hiking options. "Along Hwy 178 towards Ridgecrest you'll find this campground that is small but quiet and clean," explains Laura M. The campground serves as a resupply point for through-hikers with "2 sites with fire pits and covered picnic tables that could fit a large van at most."
Star observation: Clear desert skies create prime conditions for astronomy. "We had a nice dark sky for star gazing," mentions a visitor to the area. Sites farther from highways typically offer better visibility, though even roadside locations like Fossil Falls Campground provide quality viewing: "Great place to park the car and enjoy the sunset and sunrise! Beautiful place to explore during the day and see the lava rocks!"
What campers like
Rock formations and hiking: Red Rock Canyon State Park's Ricardo Campground features dramatic cliffs. "The views from this campground are absolute stellar. The sites and pit toilets are clean and plenty of spaces were available," reports Michell C. The campground layout takes advantage of natural features: "The sites up by the cliffs offer the best views but many may be difficult to get level in if you have a motorhome or travel trailer."
Solitude and open space: Many visitors appreciate the low-density camping experience. "We were fortunate and had the place to ourselves... There were plenty of options that had fire rings," a camper noted. At Chimney Creek Campground, "remote camping site that most sites are overgrown... leaves about 6-8 sites randomly placed among the original 30. So all sites are pretty far apart," explains Paul B.
Wildlife viewing: Desert ecosystems support unique fauna. Stephanie F. observed: "You can see chuckwalla lizards sun on top of the rocks and we also got a visit from a sidewinder rattlesnake. Just be sure to wear boots, keep kids or animals close, respect the locals." Rattlesnakes are commonly encountered, with one camper advising "use caution with kids and pets."
What you should know
Water availability: No reliable natural water sources exist in most camping areas. "No potable water. So bring water," Kevin M. advises about Chimney Creek. When visiting Trona Pinnacles, "stock up before arriving though because there are not many resources nearby."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. "No AT&T service within a 10 mile radius," reports Michelle W. about Trona Pinnacles. A Fossil Falls Campground visitor noted: "We were completely alone in the entire area. A wonderful place. We only had internet with T-Mobile across the road on the mountain."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal and permanent fire bans affect many sites. For Chimney Creek, "Fire restrictions usually 'extreme' so probably not a spot for a campfire." When fires are permitted, existing fire rings should be used, as many BLM areas have restrictions on creating new impact areas.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires preparation. Trona Pinnacles requires navigating "about 5 miles of gravely washboard road but gets smoother as you get around pinnacles." A visitor suggests: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Safety planning: Wildlife encounters require awareness. "Rattlesnakes common, use caution with kids and pets," advises Jon J. about Chimney Creek Campground. At Wagon Wheel, prepare for "chuckwalla lizards sun on top of the rocks" and possible snake encounters.
Weather protection: Extreme temperature fluctuations demand planning. "It was quite windy while we were there but the temperature was nice and the evening sunsets were great!" shares Philip D. about Fossil Falls. Sun protection is essential with limited natural shade in most locations.
Accessible sites: Some locations offer ADA accommodations. Ricardo Campground has "a few paved ADA specific sites as well," notes Michell C. These sites typically require less walking distance to facilities and have more level surfaces.
Educational opportunities: The unique geology creates learning experiences. At Trona Pinnacles, "somebody commented it's the type of dust that sticks to everything and they were right." The visitor center at Red Rock Canyon State Park offers interpretive materials and limited WiFi access: "There was poor WiFi at the visitor center but at least you could send an email or message."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires equipment. At Ricardo Campground, "Most sights have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks," notes Leonard H. Sites closer to rock formations typically require more extensive leveling.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Size limitations affect where RVs can park. At Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park, "For overnighters there is a separate area from the long term residents with level pull through sites and full hook ups (20, 30 and 50amp) for $30/night," explains Laura M.
Dump station availability: Services for waste management are limited. Laura M. found Bertrand's "also has a self pay drop box right outside the fenced overnighter area which also has an easily accessed dump station and potable water for $10 fee if you just need to dump and fill."
