Best Dispersed Camping near Ocotillo Wells, CA

Looking for the best campgrounds near Ocotillo Wells, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ocotillo Wells, California (38)

    1. Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    35 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    17 miles
    Website

    "Pit toilet. Pack it out - no trash service. No water. If you go left as you come in you can camp along a rock wall filled with agave, cholla and other plants."

    "Got up in the morning and went all the way until the end of the road on maps (Apple or Google) on our 2WD, was doable. 4 bars T Mobile LTE where we were.

    Campsite itself was very nice."

    2. Truckhaven at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Salton City, CA
    11 miles
    Website

    "No hookups but you can stay for free on the bluffs. In some weather conditions the wind can be a bit much."

    "Make your campsite anywhere, restrooms near by, driving distance to a few stores & gas station. Great camping & 4x4 in truck haven, cool off-road in event for Tierra Del Sol/TDS-in March"

    3. Octillo Wells OHV Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Salton City, CA
    3 miles

    "Lots of open space, just drive out and park. Might need an air down/up system depending on how far in you want to travel. No issues for the first 0.25-0.5 mile off the highway."

    4. Coachwhip Canyon — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    2 Reviews
    Coolidge Springs, CA
    10 miles
    Website

    "Coachwhip Canyon is accessible from the Berrago Salton Freeway, it’s right on the Ella Wash. You can drive back through the canyon through a variety of areas people pull over and camp."

    5. Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    5 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    15 miles
    Website

    "The park has campgrounds near borrego springs that are easily accessible. Visiting the mud caves you’ll need 4x4 or an AWD car with high clearance."

    ", caves were warmest the whole time

    Road & Address: there were some soft sand spots, didn’t require a lot of clearance and I didn’t put my Jeep Compass into AWD at all."

    6. Arroyo Salado Dispersed Camp

    1 Review
    Coolidge Springs, CA
    9 miles

    "I drove about a mile back in the Arroyo and only saw one other vehicle. The road is a little Sandy and rough but quite possible with four-wheel drive."

    7. Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs

    2 Reviews
    Borrego Springs, CA
    14 miles

    "On the outer southern edge of Borrego Springs is this private yet free camp area.

    A few dozen sites exist, each some five hundred feet or more apart."

    "The best feature of this free camping area is the awesome metal sculptures right near this campground. 

    Near the cute town of Borrego Springs, just a little off Borrego Springs road."

    8. Peg Leg Dispersed

    1 Review
    Borrego Springs, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-4205

    "Anza Borrego Desert SP allows dispersed camping in certain areas of the park, and this is one of them.  I tried to find it on the website, but found no mention of allowed camping in the park.  "

    9. Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed

    59 Reviews
    Mecca, CA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 833-7100

    "This campground (and I use the term loosely) is everything that I love about BLM land - dispersed, quiet, and FREE!"

    "This area is managed by BLM, which means it's free to use for up to 14 days at a time. 

    There are no hookups or facilities, and it's pack it in, pack it out. "

    10. Yaqui Wash

    1 Review
    Borrego Springs, CA
    15 miles

    "This whole area is essentially within one valley, so you have mountains on both sides. It is well vegetated and allows for fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ocotillo Wells, CA

189 Reviews of 38 Ocotillo Wells Campgrounds



Guide to Ocotillo Wells

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ocotillo Wells, California, where the desert landscape offers a unique escape into nature. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the freedom of choosing their own spots while soaking in stunning views and starry nights.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Truckhaven at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area provides an open desert experience with breathtaking night skies that are perfect for stargazing.
  • Campers at Blair Valley Primitive Campground can enjoy wide-open spaces and panoramic views, making it easy to find a peaceful spot away from others.
  • The Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves offer a unique landscape with stunning rock formations, ideal for those looking to explore while enjoying the beauty of the desert.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Ocotillo Wells

  • Off-roading enthusiasts will find plenty of adventure at [Truckhaven at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area], where the terrain is perfect for 4x4 vehicles and exploring the vast desert.
  • Hiking and cave exploration are highlights at the Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves, where visitors can discover fascinating geological features and enjoy the thrill of adventure.
  • For those seeking solitude, Yaqui Wash offers a serene environment with easy access to hiking trails and the chance to connect with nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ocotillo Wells, California

  • Always pack out what you pack in at locations like Peg Leg Dispersed, as these areas rely on campers to keep them clean and enjoyable for everyone.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially at Blair Valley Primitive Campground, where winds can pick up unexpectedly.
  • Ensure you have the right equipment for your vehicle when visiting places like the Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves, as some roads may require higher clearance for safe access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ocotillo Wells, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ocotillo Wells, CA is Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 35 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ocotillo Wells, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 38 dispersed camping locations near Ocotillo Wells, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.