Camping near Joshua Tree National Park

Camping near Joshua Tree National Park, California, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a base for exploring the park, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore the Ghost Town: Visit the Calico Ghost Town for a fun day of walking through history. One camper mentioned, "The Ghost town is a fun place to walk through," making it a great addition to your itinerary.
• Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. One reviewer at Sawtooth Canyon Campground noted, "There are lots of hikes and trails and places to walk and scramble," perfect for those who love to explore.
• Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, check out the rock formations near Sawtooth Canyon Campground. A visitor shared, "This is also a big rock climbing destination," so bring your gear!

What campers like:

• Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment. One happy camper at Afton Canyon Campground said, "Wind was too intense to get the car back tent up at night," indicating that while it can be windy, the serenity is worth it.
• Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the sites. A reviewer at Shady Lane RV Camp stated, "Very clean and friendly place," which is a big plus for many.
• Friendly Staff: Good customer service can make a trip more enjoyable. One visitor at Barstow-Calico KOA noted, "The staff was incredibly helpful," which can make your stay more pleasant.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Owl Canyon Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper warned, "The road to get there isn’t paved, it’s all dirt/sand," so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
• Noise Levels: Campgrounds near highways can be noisy. A reviewer at Barstow-Calico KOA mentioned, "The interstate is loud, so it did impact a good night's sleep," which is something to consider if you're sensitive to noise.
• Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground said, "It is also called New Jack City by the rock climbing community," indicating that it can get busy, especially on weekends.

Tips for camping with families:

• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Calico Ghost Town enjoyed the Easter egg hunt, saying, "They have an egg hunt divided by children's age groups," which can be a fun experience for little ones.
• Safety First: Always bring your own supplies. A camper at Afton Canyon Campground advised, "I'd advise bringing toilet paper!" to ensure you have everything you need.
• Plan for Weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. One camper at Sawtooth Canyon Campground mentioned, "Ambient temps soared," so check the forecast before you go.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A reviewer at Owl Canyon Campground warned, "Nearly 5 miles of either hard washboard dirt road," so make sure your RV can handle it.
• Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Newberry Mountain RV Park appreciated, "Full hookups and check-in was easy," making it a hassle-free experience.
• Stay Connected: If you need internet access, check the Wi-Fi situation. A visitor at Newberry Mountain RV Park mentioned, "The Wi-Fi speed was 3.32 for Download," which can be helpful for planning your next adventure.

Camping near Joshua Tree National Park, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery!