Ricardo Campground sits at approximately 2,600 feet elevation in the western Mojave Desert, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F and winter nights can drop below freezing. The surrounding area features eroded badlands, volcanic remnants, and colorful rock formations created through millennia of geological processes. Campgrounds near Red Mountain offer minimal to no shade, requiring visitors to bring portable shelters for protection against intense desert sun.
What to do
Explore night skies: Ricardo Campground's remote location provides exceptional stargazing conditions. "The Milky Way was out at night. The trails are stunning," notes Margaret P., who appreciated the dark skies despite finding "the trails are kind of far away from the campsites."
Visit geological formations: The Trona Pinnacles feature unusual tufa spires rising from an ancient lakebed. "A very out of the way place to plant yourself if you are looking for space... Filming for the remake of Planet of the Apes happened here," shares Amy and Alan R., who found the landscape "magical."
Off-road vehicle recreation: Jawbone Canyon OHV Area provides extensive trails for all skill levels. "Lots of trails to ride - for beginners to advanced. We zipped around in a side by side and everyone was responsible and nice," reports Natalie T., who enjoyed the privacy and ample space at this dog friendly campground near Red Mountain.
What campers like
Desert solitude: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Red Mountain offer significant space between sites. At Wagon Wheel Staging Area, Brandon C. found "plenty of space to branch out on your own. There were about 10 other groups there and still had plenty of space!"
Diverse camping options: The region accommodates various camping preferences. Gretchen P. notes at Wagon Wheel Staging Area, "We drove our skoolie in and didn't have any trouble with the small bumps and sand. There were a few rvs and one tent, but it is so spread out that we never heard them."
Dramatic sunsets and sunrises: The desert landscape creates spectacular sky views. At BLM Desert Site, Tyler D. reports, "I missed the sunset but caught a beautiful sunrise" at this "great little secluded spot about 4 miles off the highway."
What you should know
Weather extremes: Temperature variations require preparation. At Dove Springs OHV Area, one camper warns it can be "VERY windy, had to park my class C facing the wind to minimize swaying, but at times it felt like I was on a boat."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack basic services. At Trona Pinnacles, a reviewer advises, "Stock up before arriving though because there are not many resources nearby."
Road conditions: Access varies by location. At Ricardo Campground, Michell C. observed "The road in is smooth, sites are easy to access (with a few pull-through sites) and there are a few paved ADA specific sites as well."
Water management: Bring all necessary water when camping. "Would have stayed longer if there were any spigots nearby to refill my fresh water tank," notes a Dove Springs visitor, explaining that "Ricardo campground is 6 miles away and has spigots but hoses can't attach to them."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with room for children to explore safely. At Wagon Wheel Staging Area, families appreciate that "There are two toilets as well. The location has access to off-road trails, but the riders stopped before dark and we had a quiet night."
Wildlife awareness: Educate children about desert creatures. Stephanie F. observed at Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park that "You can see chuckwalla lizards sun on top of the rocks and we also got a visit from a sidewinder rattlesnake. Just be sure to wear boots, keep kids or animals close, respect the locals."
Timing considerations: Plan activities during cooler hours. Roy V. cautions about Wagon Wheel, "DON'T GO IN THE SUMMER... If you have an AC that you can put on during the night, it shouldn't be a problem!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling preparations: Many sites require adjustments for comfort. At Ricardo Campground, Leonard H. notes, "Most sights have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks."
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully. Laura M. found that Bertrand's High Desert "has an easily accessed dump station and potable water for $10 fee if you just need to dump and fill."
Site positioning: Consider wind direction when parking. A visitor to Dove Springs OHV Area recommends orienting your RV "facing the wind to minimize swaying" during high wind conditions common in the region.
Guide
