Camping options near Newberry Springs, California range from primitive desert sites to full-service RV parks with hookups. Located in the Mojave Desert at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, this area experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs regularly exceeding 110°F and winter nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with the strongest coverage found closest to Interstate 40.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The remote desert location provides exceptional dark skies. At Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, campers report stunning astronomical viewing. "We booked and traveled here to show the kids the stars from a desert view, and it did not disappoint! My camera couldn't capture the magnificent view from just our site," notes Jason M.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in an otherwise arid region. "Nice campground for all. Has a lake to fish for a nominal price. Spaces are nice and wide some have full hookups others are just electric & water," explains John M. about Joshua Tree Lake Camping.
Route 66 exploration: Many campgrounds provide direct access to historic Route 66. At Shady Lane RV Camp, visitors can experience nearby attractions. "When you first pull in you see all these dope mad Maxx cars... something super cool and they have a drive in down the street. I mean how cool!" reports Brittney C.
What campers like
Desert lakes: Several rv sites near Newberry Springs, California feature unexpected water features. "The lakes here give it a nice feel since it's in the Mojave desert between Barstow and Ludlow California," explains Kevin H. about Newberry Mountain. Another camper mentioned "There is a nice little pond with lots of birds that my daughter loved" at Joshua Tree Lake.
Mountain views: Camping spots in the nearby mountains offer scenic vistas and cooler temperatures. At Skypark Camp RV Resort, visitors praise the panoramic views. "Views are incredible although to squeeze in some sites they made the access roads a bit small. I would skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," advises Justin C.
Wildlife watching: Desert birds and animals attract nature enthusiasts. "The old caboose, the Hwy 66 hotel mural, and the ducks around the pond were a nice touch," reports MickandKarla W. about their stay at Newberry Mountain RV Park.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Summer camping requires extensive heat preparations. "It was 120° when I got there so the pool felt really good," notes Chip K. about his stay at Newberry Mountain. Winter brings opposite concerns, as MickandKarla W. explains, "Due to the expected freeze warning, we did not hook up to the water or sewer."
Military access restrictions: Some camping areas require military credentials. At Military Park Barstow Marine Corps Logistics Base Oasis RV Park, "Note that this area is an active military installation and reserved for armed services members and their families only! We stopped here looking for a place to camp for the night, and the very polite (but confused) MP advised us that the facility isn't open to the public," warns Aaron B.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted amenities. "I was told there was cable TV but didn't try it. The pet area was a sandy strip by the fence," reports Jeff H. about Shady Lane RV Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: During hot months, swimming facilities are essential for families. "The best part for me was the pool which was clean and cool," notes Kevin H. about his stay at Newberry Mountain RV Park, making it suitable for families trying to escape the desert heat.
Educational opportunities: Keller Peak Yellow Post Campsites offer learning experiences nearby. "The Keller Peak Lookout was amazing. I thought it was just a tourist attraction but it's really a staffed (with volunteers) active fire lookout. Worth the trip for sure," recommends Steve H.
Game facilities: Some campgrounds provide recreation areas. "There are outdoor games setup for adults and kids to play. The community firepits were also very lovely," explains Lannie B. about Skypark Camp RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Hookup practicalities: Full-service rv sites near Newberry Springs require preparation. "We had to disconnect and park on the side of this gravel site. The Wi-Fi speed was 3.32 for Download and 2.35 for Upload, which worked okay. We got 3 bars on Verizon," reports MickandKarla W. at Newberry Mountain.
Dump station access: Not all facilities permit non-guest usage. At Holloway's Marina & RV Park, "It was difficult to use the dump hookups as they're elevated about a foot off the ground so I had to lift the hose off my support snake many times," notes Mike R.
Site selection strategy: For larger rigs, selecting appropriate sites is crucial. "I would skip if I were a big rig, or call and ask for sites that are easy to get into," advises Justin C. about Skypark Camp RV Resort, while another RVer mentioned, "The sites are very tight but had plenty of room" at the same location.
