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Best Campgrounds near Ocotillo, CA

531 Reviews

The desert landscape surrounding Ocotillo, California provides diverse camping experiences ranging from primitive dispersed sites to developed facilities with amenities. Notable locations include Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, with several primitive campgrounds such as Blair Valley, Mountain Palm Springs, and Bow Willow offering basic facilities amid dramatic desert terrain. The Cleveland National Forest to the west provides higher-elevation alternatives like Burnt Rancheria Campground, while Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area attracts off-road enthusiasts with its open camping policies.

Road access varies significantly across the region, with many primitive areas requiring high-clearance or 4WD vehicles, particularly when accessing remote campsites. "We stayed at Fish Creek Wash on 3 separate occasions. This place is incredible and a very popular spot for the overland community. The camp is at the beginning of the Split Mountain Canyon in Anza Borrego Desert State Park," noted one experienced camper. Weather conditions present significant considerations, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making fall through spring the primary camping seasons. Most dispersed camping areas in Anza-Borrego have no amenities beyond vault toilets, while developed campgrounds like Agua Caliente County Park offer water and electric hookups. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the region, with better coverage at higher elevations.

Campers consistently highlight the stargazing opportunities throughout the area, with Anza-Borrego's designation as a Dark Sky Park enhancing the experience. Several visitors mentioned the dramatic geological features, from slot canyons to mud caves, as highlights worth exploring during daylight hours. A recent review emphasized that "Anza Borrego has a lot of room to explore. Perfect place to star gaze and wander around. Bring plenty of water/off-road safety as towing out of this area is extremely expensive." The contrast between dispersed desert camping and more developed forest sites provides options for different comfort levels. Tent campers often prefer the higher-elevation sites at Laguna or Burnt Rancheria campgrounds for cooler temperatures, while RV users frequently choose locations with hookups like Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort or opt for boondocking in the wide-open spaces of Ocotillo Wells.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ocotillo, California (121)

    1. Agua Caliente County Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-1188

    $29 - $75 / night

    "A lot of RVs are in the center and seem set up as full-timers, but along the perimeter are some great, tucked-away sites.  There are also a number of "cabins" in a row. "

    "Waking up to a gathering of big horn sheep atop a ridge with a bright colorful sunrise set behind as backdrop as they stand there stoic against it all, was by far one my favorite ways to wake up ever!"

    2. Smuggler's Gulch Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Ocotillo, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 337-4400

    3. Bow Willow Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    5 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5311

    "We set up quickly and enjoyed ourselves a walk around the site. Not too many trailheads around and it was very hot and dry but we enjoyed it."

    4. Burnt Rancheria Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-0120

    $35 / night

    "I love this campground because it's woodsy and close to home.  You get that far away feel without being too far away. "

    "We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people."

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

    6 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    17 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."

    "This is the perfect area for off-roading and great views! It’s easy to spend a whole day here."

    6. Mountain Palm Springs Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    3 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5311

    "You can scavenge firewood around the area."

    "There is a trail head that leads to a short hike to an oasis that is pretty popular."

    7. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    "It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."

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

    35 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    32 miles
    Website

    "Lots of climbing to be had, as well as several trails. Including pictographs! Simply choose your spot and set up camp!"

    "This site is located in anza borrego, the only dark sky community in California, so you will see more stars here than anywhere else in California (unless there’s a full moon then there won’t be stars)."

    9. Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort

    5 Reviews
    El Centro, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 352-7061

    "It’s close to the Navy base so fly overs of the Super Hornets are frequent but not loud. You can actually take side roads and get right to the runway if you want … Blue Angles practice in Jan!"

    "Scenery around the park is beautiful any time of year, and for those who enjoy the RV Resort lifestyle the only reason to go out of the park during the snow bird season is for groceries."

    10. Mountain Palm Springs Camp

    1 Review
    Mount Laguna, CA
    15 miles
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Recent Camping Photos near Ocotillo, CA

209 Photos of 121 Ocotillo Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ocotillo, CA

531 Reviews of 121 Ocotillo Campgrounds

  • L
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Sunbeam Lake RV Resort

    A really nice little place.

    Great place. Was able to get a last minute spot when we were about an hour away. Office people were nice and friendly. Place was clean with lots to do.

  • Kai K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Loved The Off-Roading and Beautiful Views

    Loved how much road there was to explore. We went about 2 hours deep into this area and there was still more to explore. The best part here was the stars, so stunning. Be careful in the summer as it is very hot during the day.

  • SoCalsAngels
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Niland Marina

    Great solo spot

    Beautiful spot near the lake with gorgeous views. Nobody as far as the eye could see, of course it’s 100 degrees, but I have a trailer and awning with netting.

  • Prius P.
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    Great if you understand the desert

    By my standards this is not primitive you have a toilet and a fire ring. Some of the spots are flatter than others. I made it in my prius so no need for high clearance or 4X4. Great for seeing stars and the sunrise. Awesome mini canyons if you're adventurous. BRING WATER ! It's hit during the day otherwise I really enjoy this place personally

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    car camping

    This is a nice place to camp- we stayed one night. stopped at the laguna recreation area visitor center before hand to pick up a free permit. the road was recently paved so it’s easy to drive on, there’s a handful of spots just along side the road, as you go further in the road the views get better- we parked on the side of the road and then walked uphill about 8 minutes to a campsite we liked but there are definitely more where you just camp next to your car. there are more campsite further down the road when it goes back down in the valley but the views end there. we only saw 3-4 other cars the whole time.

  • Sheridan S.
    Jun. 6, 2025

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    Beautiful location... if you can find a spot

    Great area--it's just close enough to some expensive campgrounds and a few connecting trails, so it's awesome to camp here for FREE. Pine Creek Road itself is paved, and the camping spots are packed dirt so it's easy to get around even in a FWD. Warning though: if you're nervous about driving on single lane mountain roads, this is not the place for you! Pine Creek Road is several miles long, with some sections that are on sheer cliff edges with very few turn-off spots to allow for passing.

    Additional word of warning: the camping spots are not close together and there seemed to be very few of them. Even driving slowly, I counted only 6 or 7 sites total, separated by up to a mile. I saw only 1 other spot with campers, at least 2.5 miles from my site. Some of the sites are fairly large--could easily fit 2 cars and a couple tents--but others seemed to be just large enough to pull off the road and sleep in the car (no tent space). Some spots were tucked back from the road with lots of trees (I barely saw or heard any cars, even though I was probably only ~15ft from the road); but some were barely more than a shoulder with no trees for coverage. I stayed in the same spot two nights in a row, though I packed up during the day because I assumed I'd find another spot down the road. At least in the site I picked, there was very little trash from previous campers.

    Suggestion for the permit: make sure you apply for the free permit a few days in advance especially if you plan to go on the weekend. List the place you're going as "Pine Creek dispersed camping," and keep a printed copy in your car. I didn't have trouble with any rangers, but it's better to be safe than fined. Very spotty service (Verizon), which makes navigation and planning difficult if you don't pre-download trail maps.

  • Aaron A.
    May. 27, 2025

    KOA Boulevard

    Awesome place

    Had a great time here and the staff were amazing. Highly recommend. Has a pool, park for the kids, and a little shop to get any of your necessities.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2025

    Pine Creek Road Camp

    CAMPING

    Great spot for camping , if you have a big rig it’s a little tight to move around on the roads but definitely nice for sprinters / trucks / suvs or even cars ! Roads are PAVED , I think thats new because I don’t remember that last year when i went !

  • N
    May. 16, 2025

    Burnt Rancheria Campground

    Burnt Rancheria is BACK and BETTER than ever!

    I've camped at Burnt Rancheria for about 15 years. The hosts that were there in 2024 were ATROCIOUS, unfriendly, intrusive and homophobic. I'm thrilled to say that a new company was hired to run the campground for 2025 called WesTrek- and what a difference! Our camping trip was WONDERFUL last weekend.

    We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people. Big shout-out to the hosts Dax, Lane, Nick,& Sara-- we will happily start camping here regularly again! So relieved that we can actually*relax* in nature and not have camp hosts driving by every five minutes glaring at us!

    One other thing to note- the campground is divided into two parts. The south half(more chapparal) can be reserved online. It has the showers and flush toilets. The north side(more pines!) is first-come/ first-serve only and close by the overflow parking, vault toilets only. Potable water available throughout whole campground. 10/10 one of my fave spots in southern california!

Guide to Ocotillo

Camping near Ocotillo, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Yaqui Well Primitive Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The small, one-mile hike was very much worth it," highlighting the beautiful scenery.
  • Off-roading: The Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area is perfect for those who enjoy off-roading. A reviewer noted, "Great Area to take your OHVs," making it a popular spot for adventure seekers.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Lake Morena County Park have spotted "100 wild turkeys that cruised through the campground," adding a fun wildlife experience to your stay.

What campers like:

  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many enjoy the tranquility of Blair Valley Primitive Campground. One camper said, "Peaceful dispersed campground. Wide open great views," which is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy spots at Paso Picacho Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "The campsites are huge," making it a great choice for families or groups.
  • Clean Facilities: Visitors to Agua Caliente County Park Campground noted, "Clean, well-maintained facilities," which is always a plus when camping.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Yaqui Well Primitive Campground have no drinking water or electric hookups. A camper warned, "Don’t forget water, TP and a shovel!" to ensure you're prepared.
  • Windy Conditions: Many campers have experienced windy nights, especially at Yaqui Well Primitive Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Very windy. Close to the town of Borrego Springs," so be ready for some gusts.
  • Wildlife Precautions: Campers should be aware of the wildlife in the area. A visitor at Agua Caliente County Park Campground cautioned, "Mountain lion country - be alert," reminding everyone to stay vigilant.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds, like Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, offer trails that are great for kids. A family camper said, "The terrain of the campground is ideal for kids," making it a fun place for family adventures.
  • Choose the Right Campsite: Look for sites that offer some shade, especially during the hotter months. A reviewer at Lake Morena County Park suggested, "You’ll also want a site with some shade if there in spring/summer as it got hot during the day."
  • Plan for Privacy: Some sites can be close together. A camper noted, "You can strategically choose a campsite on an end/corner for more privacy," which is helpful for families wanting a quieter experience.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: RV campers should ensure their site can accommodate their vehicle. A visitor at Paso Picacho Campground mentioned, "There was NO way it could’ve worked," when referring to site sizes.
  • Be Prepared for No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Yaqui Well Primitive Campground, do not offer electric or water hookups. A camper advised, "Pack in and pack out!" to ensure you have everything you need.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: RVers can take advantage of nearby attractions. A visitor at Lake Morena County Park enjoyed a trip to "Campo Creek Winery," making for a nice day out.

Camping near Ocotillo, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert landscapes!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ocotillo, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ocotillo, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 121 campgrounds and RV parks near Ocotillo, CA and 28 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Ocotillo, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ocotillo, CA is Agua Caliente County Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 21 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ocotillo, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Ocotillo, CA.

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