Dispersed camping near Mojave River Dam offers a mix of desert and mountain environments with elevations ranging from 2,500-11,000 feet. Most primitive camping sites sit on Bureau of Land Management or National Forest lands within a 30-minute to 2-hour drive of the dam. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F while winter nights often drop below freezing, creating diverse seasonal camping conditions.
What to do
Rock climbing options: At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, visitors find numerous climbing opportunities. "It is a free campground, first come first serve. There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent. This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed," notes reviewer Les R.
Waterfall exploration: Near Vivian Creek Camp, campers can access a beautiful waterfall system. "This campground is located just around the corner from the permit required sign. There is a lovely creek that lead to a waterfall that some repel down," shares Brittany N. The creek area provides a refreshing break from hiking.
Historical gold panning: Holcomb Valley has a rich mining history. "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," advises Edward W. The creek beds contain small traces of gold dating back to discoveries in the 1860s.
Off-road adventures: The rocky terrain offers excellent 4x4 trails. Mike M. notes about Cougar Buttes: "Beautiful rocky terrain with tons of single track for bikes and really challenging roads for jeeps, tons of history also in the area."
What campers like
Guaranteed spots: Free dispersed camping means less competition for space. Les R. mentions about Holcomb Valley: "Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote areas, some dispersed sites maintain connectivity. At East Flats, Alexis O. found "easy to find & very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. no amenities & great cell service." This allows for working remotely while camping.
Privacy options: Campers appreciate the ability to find secluded spots. Seth B. shares about Holcomb Valley: "We decided the next day to go a little further in the woods where you're no longer in the campground base. So this is called wild camping. And that was amazing not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. Ciara W. reports at East Flats: "Saw multiple deer walking by our site." Similarly, Chandra B. notes the "fresh air! Pines, and clear blue skies!" creating optimal conditions for wildlife observation.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary: Access roads to many sites require appropriate vehicles. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, Dee M. notes: "2x4 accessible as long as it's not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail." However, conditions change quickly after weather events.
Permit requirements: Some areas require wilderness permits. Vivian Creek Camp in San Gorgonio Wilderness requires permits that must be obtained in advance through recreation.gov or at ranger stations.
Site selection timing: Arriving early improves camping options. Dickie Simmons S. recommends Mill Creek as "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others."
Dust conditions: Many desert camping areas have fine dust that infiltrates gear. Ciara W. warns about East Flats: "Easy to drag in dust and very annoying." Bringing tarps or ground cloths helps minimize dust problems in tents.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations change seasonally and by location. Seth B. notes about Holcomb Valley: "It seems like fires aren't allowed during certain periods. Just be aware, we brought our own off the ground stove. And it was perfectly fine."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Some sites provide natural playgrounds for children. Allie N. shares about her Holcomb Valley experience: "It's secluded and has enough trees for a hammock. Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip."
Easy access locations: For families with young children, consider sites with minimal hiking required. Alexander B. recommends Rim of the World Byway: "We stayed here for two nights, and it was a pretty pleasant experience! There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots."
Educational opportunities: The area offers natural learning experiences. At Bear Lake, Alyssia S. found "Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides," combining recreation with natural water features that fascinate children.
Safety precautions: Be aware of wildlife encounters with children. Brittany N. cautions at Vivian Creek Camp: "If you hike down to the creek and head South, that is where you will find the end of the waterfall. Becaful here though for I have seen a rattle snake not to far from the camp!"
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: RVers should scout roads before committing. Francisco F. warns about Mill Creek: "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn."
Class A accessibility: Some areas can accommodate larger rigs despite rough appearances. Jesse W. reports at East Flats: "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome. I am far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking."
Navigation tips: Using the correct GPS coordinates prevents difficult situations. Gregg P. advises about Rim of the World: "If your headed north on I15 do not take thirst access road. Almost a 4x4 road," while Alexander B. adds "Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way."
Turn-around space: Consider whether you can maneuver your rig if needed. Joe R. cautions about Stockton Flats: "If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around. 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."
