Camping near Mojave River Dam

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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."

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    4. Hanna Flat Campground

    26 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."

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    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

1263 Reviews of 274 Mojave River Dam Campgrounds


  • M
    Dec. 4, 2025

    Morongo Casino RV Park

    No longer offer RV parking here

    I just contacted the Hotel & resort to verify and camping/RV parking is NO longer offered. As most places around, the "wrong crowd" (their words) ruined it for all and they had to shut it down.

    If you are staying at the hotel, you check in and get a pass to park behind the casino but can not stay inside overnight.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2025

    Angeles National Forest Meadow Group Campground

    Suitable for large groups

    So much space! One of the few campgrounds still reservable within the Angeles National Forest, now that only group sites are reservable.

    Although it’s a beautiful area and the sites are spacious, the sites could be more maintained. The main vault toilets were closed so we had to walk 3 minutes each way to some further away. Potable hasn’t been available at Meadows for this season at least, but we heard you may be able to get water at the nearby Chilao campground. We just brought our own water for the weekend.

    Make sure to call for the gate lock code during weekday business hours, there is no service once you’re in the forest.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2025

    Sturtevant Camp

    amazing camp, amazing organization

    We ended up unexpectedly staying at Sturtevant Camp because we left a scary experience at Spruce grove trailhead nearby. And wow, what an amazing experience we had here! We walked up to the campgrounds after it was already dark, and the camp host came outside of his cabin within a minute. He saw our headlamps and greeted us by asking if everything was okay. We asked if we could set up our tent near the cabins, and he offered to let us stay in one of the cabins that happened to be open that weekend. Some of the most amazing hospitality I've encounted while camping, really restored my faith in humanity. We made a donation after we got home as a thank you.

    The facilities have running water and electricity. The camp host preps coffee and hot water in the morning so that other hikers coming through can stop for a warm beverage. What an amazing place!

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2025

    Spruce Grove Trail Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

    scary experience

    I took my friend backpacking on a Friday in August with the goal of camping at Spruce Grove camp that night. I read other reviews talking about how busy the campground can be over the weekend, so I was hoping we would still get a spot if we arrived Friday instead of Saturday. My friend and I were less than a mile away from the camp sites when it got dark and a guy started following us on the trail. It was unsettling, and we hoped it would be fine once we got to Spruce Grove. Unfortunately, upon arriving to the camp, it was completely empty. The guy started explaining that he didn't have a tent and his story didn't make sense (ex: said he walked up from Pasadena, instead of parking at the trailhead). Anyways, I know this guy isn't a permanent part of the campground, BUT it made me realize that backcountry camping in the Angeles National Forest is different than other backpacking I've done, because it's so close to an urban area. I've camped in many other parts of the ANF, but never the backcountry sites. I also want people to know that the campground is empty sometimes, so if you're going, I would only do it with a larger party.

    The story ends by us taking safe haven at Sturtevant Camp a little further up the trail

  • TO T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2025

    Bonelli Bluffs

    This is a campsite located very close to the city center

    This park has a great Halloween atmosphere,The bad thing is that there is no distance between these park RVs, they are very close and expensive. I must be 128US dollar.To be honest, I don't think it's worth the price. I won't go for a second time

  • William J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 27, 2025

    Sawtooth Canyon Campground

    Great campground with a dinosaur.

    Beautiful campground that is free with pavilions, fire rings, and BBQ at the campsites. Pit toilets that are clean but bring tp with you. A playground for the kiddos with a partially buried Dino (cement) that looks like a lot of fun. Rock formations all around for the rock climbers if that's your bag. It's really an awesome campground.

  • Carly B.
    Nov. 21, 2025

    Country Hills RV Park Resort

    Large Park!

    We stopped just for 1 night on our way through. Very large park. Well maintained. Swimming pool and hot tub.

    Coin operated showers.

    Couple of “hidden” costs that I was surprised at- $15 “resort” fee and $5 per dog… so was a bit on the pricey side, but the amenities were nice

  • Keith  S.
    Nov. 20, 2025

    Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

    Quick get away

    Had a good 2 days at Crystal Lake rec and campground. Super busy for the holiday weekend. Gets pretty crowded and loud on big weekends . Sites were clean. 15 min drive for some amazing sunsets. Can’t wait to come back and set some hammocks up with the kids.

  • Keith  S.
    Nov. 20, 2025

    Hanna Flat Campground

    Off roading fun @ Hanna flat

    The kids and I had an awesome good time camping at Hanna flat and off roading. Good hikes and everyone did good keeping the place clean. Trip got cut short due to the gold fire. Looking forward to exploring more next year.


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.