Camping near Mojave River Dam

Mojave River Dam, California provides several established campgrounds within the surrounding high desert terrain. Mojave River Forks Regional Park represents a primary camping area with developed facilities including water, electric hookups, and showers, while maintaining accessibility for both tent and RV campers. The area includes additional options like Hesperia Lake Park, Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground, and North Shore Campground, each offering varied amenities from primitive to full-service sites. Some locations support accommodations beyond traditional camping, including cabin rentals and glamping opportunities that provide comfort while experiencing the desert landscape.

The Mojave region's camping areas experience substantial temperature fluctuations, with hot daytime conditions and significantly cooler nights throughout much of the year. Road conditions vary considerably, with many campgrounds accessible via paved roads while others require navigation of rough dirt roads and mountain terrain. One camper noted, "Rough ride in but totally worth it. The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," reflecting the access challenges at some locations. Most established campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though summer months bring intense heat that many visitors recommend avoiding. Reservations become increasingly important during spring and fall when moderate temperatures attract more campers, particularly at developed campgrounds with water and electric hookups.

Campground options near Mojave River Dam frequently feature desert views, unique geological features, and occasional water access points. Mojave River Forks Regional Park receives consistently positive reviews for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, with visitors appreciating the spacious campsites despite limited shade. According to one visitor, "We found the campground to be very clean and well-maintained. The campsites in the area where we were, were spacious and spread out." Deep Creek Hot Springs represents a particularly notable attraction, with camping areas providing base locations for hikers seeking the natural hot springs. While most campers report peaceful experiences, several reviews mention occasional noise issues, particularly at unhosted campgrounds. Cell service remains unreliable across many camping areas, with visitors reporting spotty coverage from most major carriers, making advance research and offline maps essential for travelers planning extended stays.

Best Camping Sites Near Mojave River Dam (274)

    1. Dogwood

    33 Reviews
    Rimforest, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 336-6717

    $40 - $81 / night

    "The trees are massive and plenty and make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of California."

    "The campground overall is really pretty and in a great location in Lake Arrowhead. However, we made the mistake of booking site 005, which is right on a ridge... it was SO windy."

    2. Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Cedarpines Park, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2281

    $45 - $350 / night

    "Silverwood Lake was just that. Lush green mountains in the back drop that surrounded every view you turned to take in. "You need to recharge your batteries!""

    "ATV with ice cream and firewood comes around right before dark. Campsites are a bit crowded for my liking. Access to the Silverwood Lake recreation area is a great benefit."

    3. North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor

    14 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8550

    $29 - $58 / night

    "Spaces are pretty close together and small, but we got lucky and didn’t have anyone around us (likely due to bad air quality). If you kayak this is a great place to camp, it’s right next to the lake."

    "Lake arrowhead isn't a public lake so it's a bit of a drive to do any water activities, but there was a close offroad trail."

    4. Hanna Flat Campground

    25 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    $33 - $67 / night

    "We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."

    "We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."

    5. Serrano

    35 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 866-8021

    $44 - $91 / night

    "We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."

    "This camp site is located walking distance to the lake. There are bike paths and walking trails located near the camp ground."

    6. Skypark Camp RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Skyforest, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 744-9927

    $50 - $100 / night

    "Lake Arrowhead is close for supplies or food.  "

    "Views are worth it and this is so conveniently located next to Santa's Village. Will definitely be coming back again sooner than later!"

    7. Mojave River Forks Regional Park

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, MS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 389-2322

    $3 - $40 / night

    "Nice place to camp, weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold through out the night. Has everything you'll need. Bathrooms are close by, showers HOT water available."

    "The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby. It is away from the populated cities, but not far from them. It still gives you a sense of seclusion."

    8. Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

    5 Reviews
    Arkabutla Lake, MS
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 515-7525

    $10 - $119 / night

    "Easy access to the hot springs and no services to speak of. Basically a patch of dirt you can occupy for $10 a night. Loved it."

    "Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail. Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around! Two nights are perfect."

    9. Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Cedar Glen, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 867-2009

    "After years of venturing into and around Lake Arrowhead (often a mere stop on my way to Big Bear/Fawnskin) I finally started exploring off the beaten path by accident last year and holy cow!"

    "Green valley lake campground is an awesome place for a fun getaway. We wanted to get away for the Fourth of July but waited too long to book in Big Bear."

    10. Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Green Valley Lake, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2600

    "Tons of land to hike, on or off trail. Geocaching sites nearby. The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing."

    "Each site is decent size and tucked away into the rocks. Many will fit multiple people easily. They fill up fast may-sept."

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Recent Reviews near Mojave River Dam

1254 Reviews of 274 Mojave River Dam Campgrounds


  • Elden A.
    Nov. 16, 2025

    Boulder Basin

    All your problems fade away here

    Our stay here was quite the adventure. We went on a Sunday and left Monday night, the camp ground was empty. We made it up the mountain in our VW golf🤦🏼 and got stuck right before the top, as there had been heavy rains the prior week that had eroded much of the soft earth in some areas. The trek was incredibly bumpy but the car handled it great until that one point. Many kind people stopped to assist us, and an hour n a half later we were free and thankful. The process for reserving our site was simple. Many of the sites are sloped subtly so next time I would spend more time picking a more flat one so the tent could be more comfortable, but it wasn't bad. Bathrooms were clean but had bees and such. The forest was exceptionally beautiful, with pinecones as big as your head, and a great excess of firewood, although it was no fire season, so if you were to camp in the off season you wouldn't even need to buy wood. I was worried about bears but we never saw or heard any sign, only squirrels and ravens visited us. It was cold at night, low 40s, and by late morning it was back into the high 70s. Getting down the mountain was still bumpy and nerve wracking but with gravity on our side we experienced no issues. Overall an incredibly beautiful place that we'll never forget!

  • Sabrina V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2025

    Marion Mountain

    Only $10.00

    First come first serve with plenty of views and hiking trails

    • Pit toilets
    • Water
    • No shower houses
    • No power
  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    Pioneertown Corrals

    Overall great place to stay

    It’s a very cool and unique place. They have two bars/restaurants with live bands and even a bingo night, a few gift shops and plenty of open camp sites during the week. I stayed on a Monday and there was only one other camper. Not sure how it would look on a weekend. This place is worth a weekend or one night get away. Very fun. The only negative they had was no water hookups and they only have porta potties for toilets.

  • Vin W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Canyon RV Park

    Still a wonderful spot close to Orange County

    I have gone to long term RV and took a chance here. I came at night, and was frustrated with the traffic to just enter the park. It wasn't until the next morning that I began to appreciate the surroundings. The freeway noise became soothing. The showers clean, the grass maintained. Easy to access dump stations, fairly modern electrical hookups. Lots of families, people in golf carts, bicycles on trails. Wildlife including Blue Herons eating gophers, squirrels and coyotes. I would return here.

  • s
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Stone Creek Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    Great Trails & Views

    The site was nice and spacious, tall pines, great shade and star gazing, the falling egg corns were fun but the fire ban was a deal breaker... I reserved 1 1/2 months out so when I arrived the ban was in effect, stayed one night out of two. The trails were nice with plenty of great views, quiet walks and natural woodland creatures: woodpeckers, squirrels and birds. I'll stay again only if there's no fire ban.... Whats camping without a fire?

  • marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Owl Canyon Campground

    Amazing night sky

    Awesome lil BLM campground with level sites and covered tables. No water while we were there so bring your own. Pit toilets clean. Only $6. A pretty cool trail goes up the creekbed. Don’t miss the cave.

  • L
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Deer loop

    Had an amazing time, unbeknownst to us deer loop was closed after we booked it in June. We ended up having the whole loop to ourselves. We come here about 5 times a year and never have issues.

  • Julianne M.
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Beautiful BLM Free Campgound

    This campsite is absolutely breathtaking. We arrived late on a Friday night and all of the designated spots were taken, but there are places you can pull off to the side and camp. The road in is about 1.5mi of washboard, but it's completely doable (our rented front wheel drive campervan had no issues). Wish we would've spent more time here!

  • Gillian L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Barstow-Calico KOA

    Beautiful

    We rolled in after dark. The office is open until 9 pm which was very nice. They sell snacks and supplies. There are cabins for rent along with tent sites in addition to backup and pull through sites. Our site had full hookups. The dog park at the back of the campground was decent size with a gorgeous view of the mountains. There are arched overhead lights through the lanes to help light in the dark. A word of warning, the campground has many oleander flower bushes which are toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so please use caution. There are signs warning of this.


Guide to Mojave River Dam

Camping near Mojave River Dam, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. At Serrano Campground, one camper mentioned, "We were super close to all the awesome hiking spots and off-roading exploring." The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Fishing: The nearby lakes provide great fishing opportunities. A visitor at Bonelli Bluffs noted, "Beautiful views if the lake during the day and the city at night," making it a perfect spot to cast a line.
  • Biking: There are biking trails that wind through the campgrounds. One reviewer at California Dogwood Campground said, "Great mountain bike or hiking trail about 5-6mi loop," highlighting the area’s biking potential.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Serrano Campground remarked, "Clean restrooms and showers. Nice spacious scenic sites."
  • Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of campground hosts. One camper at Hanna Flat Campground shared, "The camp hosts are so friendly and even showed us a snake she had caught."
  • Spacious sites: Campers often mention the ample space between sites. A review for San Gorgonio Campground stated, "Spacious and private," which is great for those seeking a bit of solitude.

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground noted, "There was a large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Sawtooth Canyon Campground mentioned, "There are pit toilets but no other amenities," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife in the area. A camper at Serrano Campground warned, "Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Look for family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds have playgrounds or activities for kids. A family at Bonelli Bluffs wished for more amenities for children, saying, "We were hoping for playgrounds or similar amenities to keep them entertained."
  • Plan for downtime: Bring games or activities for kids to enjoy during quiet times. One parent at California Dogwood Campground found the area peaceful, stating, "The place is clean and quiet."
  • Choose quieter times: If possible, visit during the week to avoid crowds. A camper at Hanna Flat Campground mentioned, "Weekend summer crowds can be loud and packed."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at San Gorgonio Campground noted, "Some large enough for RV's," which is helpful for planning.
  • Bring your own hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A camper at Serrano Campground mentioned, "No electric hookups," so be prepared.
  • Be ready for weather changes: Campgrounds can get chilly at night. One RV traveler at Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground advised, "Campfires were allowed as the temperature dropped pretty quick once the sun went down."

Camping near Mojave River Dam, California, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Mojave River Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, Mojave River Dam offers a wide range of camping options, with 274 campgrounds and RV parks near Mojave River Dam and 25 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Mojave River Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mojave River Dam is Dogwood with a 4.7-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mojave River Dam?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 free dispersed camping spots near Mojave River Dam.