Camping spots near Newberry Springs, California sit within the high Mojave Desert at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing at night, while summer days routinely exceed 105°F with very low humidity. The surrounding terrain features volcanic cinder cones, dry lake beds, and Joshua trees scattered across the landscape.
What to do
Explore canyon terrain: At Owl Canyon Campground, hikers can venture through unique limestone formations. "Isolated but easy to get to and recently upgraded. Each camping spot has a picnic table, firepit, garbage, and nice flat spot for our 4Wheel camper. Found some critters including a sidewinder but we are camping in their home so to be expected," explains Sara S.
Visit the ghost town: Calico Ghost Town Regional Park offers historical attractions within walking distance of its campground. "You can't beat having a campsite AND you can enter the ghost town either by foot or drive to the ghost town's parking lot. Your camping fees include all that. Very cute little town and lots to see," notes camper D.T.
Rock climbing adventures: The Sawtooth Canyon area attracts climbers with its distinctive rock formations. "This canyon is great for a couple of days of climbing. The area is unique from the Mojave topography. Plus, it is free to camp," states Tommy B. Many routes are suitable for beginners, with established anchors and climbing areas located within walking distance of campsites.
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: The riparian habitat at Afton Canyon Campground creates opportunities for animal sightings. "There is a lot of cool wildlife to see from lizards, kangaroo rats, snakes and more often than not big horn sheep," reports Amanda D. Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing times.
Swimming pools during summer: During hot weather, campgrounds with pools become essential. "The best part for me was the pool which was clean and cool," mentions Kevin H. about Newberry Mountain RV Park. Most campground pools in the area operate from April through October, with limited hours during spring and fall.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear desert skies offer exceptional night viewing. "We just woke to a lovely quiet morning here. Fully renewed, to make my long drive down towards San Diego. Just me and Missy and all those stars on that dark desert night," writes Michelle M. about her stay at Shady Lane RV Camp. The best viewing occurs during new moon phases with minimal light pollution.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "The road in is pretty washboard, but worth the shaking and rattling for this beautiful spot," notes Kathy B. about Sawtooth Canyon. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for several locations, particularly after rain.
Extreme temperature fluctuations: Desert camping requires preparation for both heat and cold. "I was here one October where the weather was above 100F during the day. The sites have absolutely no shade or cover," reports Hannah O. about Calico Ghost Town. Night temperatures can drop 40-50 degrees from daytime highs, especially during spring and fall.
Railway proximity: Several campgrounds sit near active train tracks. "There are train tracks located next to the campground but the train doesn't run that much. I think I saw 4 trains in a 24 hour period," explains Berton M. about Afton Canyon Campground. Earplugs may be necessary for light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. "The kids loved the pool and other kids to play with. Great game room with pool, foosball, air hockey etc. Big playground and easy campground to bike around," shares Jennifer H. about her family's experience at Barstow-Calico KOA.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "I had always wanted to visit a ghost town so when this came up in our travel path, we had to stop for a night. The next morning, we wandered into the Ghost Town for some entertainment. We took pictures of the bottle house, mercantile, and many other buildings," recounts Christy C. about Calico Ghost Town.
Safety considerations: Desert environments require extra precautions with children. "This place has cool little mining caves and a cool train for kids to ride on. Somethings are locked down due to covid but this place isn't shy of family fun," notes Brittney C. Pack extra water, sun protection, and first aid supplies when visiting with children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites exist but require planning. "Section A came with the full hookup, I saw mainly large class A RVs parking there, probably came for a longer time. I took a space in camp B with only electricity, which is enough for me and my Class B," explains SmallRVLifestyle V. about Calico Ghost Town Regional Park.
Level sites: Many RV spots feature improved surfaces. "The pads are new concrete and level. There are a few trees along the back of the RV pads. Full hookups and apparently the base WiFi is available by renting a router for the night," reports Michael C. about a military facility (restricted access).
Overnight convenience: Several campgrounds work well as transit stops. "We were only here one night but we had a nice stay. We left the windows open since it was great evening weather. The freeway noise was there but it didn't keep us up. We had full hookups and check-in was easy," notes Christina H. about her stopover at Newberry Mountain RV Park.
