Red Mountain camping options range from developed RV parks with full hookups to dry camping sites in desert terrain. The area sits at approximately 3,500 feet elevation in the Mojave Desert, experiencing extreme temperature fluctuations with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with most reliable connectivity in Ridgecrest and spotty coverage in outlying areas.
What to do
Explore Red Rock Canyon formations: Ricardo Campground at Red Rock Canyon State Park offers direct access to stunning geological features. "The trails are stunning. The Milky Way was out at night," reports one visitor who appreciated the night sky viewing opportunities. The park includes several hiking trails through colorful rock formations.
Visit the Mojave Air & Space Port: Located near RV sites in Mojave, this unique destination allows visitors to watch aircraft operations. "The coolest thing about this park (besides its nice price) is the Mojave Air & Space Port located immediately next door. Stop by its little park and cute, friendly restaurant where you can watch airplanes take off while having delicious fries or a milkshake," notes a camper who stayed at Spaceport RV Park.
Watch glider flights: Some camping areas near Tehachapi provide views of glider operations. "Sites are right off runway for glider flying. We ended up extending stay from one night to four to watch air force cadet competition," writes a visitor to Mountain Valley RV Park.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The desert landscape offers distinct appeal. "The desert was alive in April! I got #8 which had a nice view. Not too crowded at 1 pm on a Saturday where I got to choose from a dozen open sites. So much better than the Alabama Hills area which was completely packed," notes a Ricardo Campground visitor about spring conditions.
Self-contained services: Many RV sites near Red Mountain, California provide essential services for travelers. "We are full time RVers and stayed here 1 night after boondocking a week and heading to our next boondocking destination. This is a perfect stop to dump, fill water, do laundry and just do an overall reset of our RV," writes a visitor to Desert Empire Fair RV Park.
Affordability: Budget options exist for overnight stays. "Cheap, no-frills full hook-up RV park near the mojave airfield and space port. You are literally parking in a parking lot with hook-ups. It's bare bones," explains a camper describing Spaceport RV Park, which offers spaces for approximately $25 per night.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: Spring wildflower season attracts more visitors. "The views from this campground are absolute stellar. The sites and pit toilets are clean and plenty of spaces were available. It was all first come, first served and self-pay when we arrived," notes a November visitor to Ricardo Campground when describing off-peak conditions.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require equipment for leveling. "Most sights have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks," reports a Ricardo Campground visitor regarding the site conditions.
Limited bathroom access hours: Some facilities restrict overnight access. "Bathrooms are locked between 10 pm and 7:30 am (not good for those of us with early mornings)," cautions a visitor to Mountain Valley RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Seek parks with nature programs: Shady Lane RV Camp offers interesting features for kids. "This little RV park was opened in 1977. It is nothing fancy but perfectly inperfect. A real drive-in movie theater is across the street," notes a visitor, highlighting the nearby entertainment option.
Consider camps with wildlife viewing: Some areas offer opportunities to hear desert wildlife. "Plan to return in the future and listen to the coyotes at night again," mentions a Mountain Valley RV Park visitor.
Pack extra water: Desert conditions require additional hydration supplies, especially for children. "Hot in summer. Can be very windy," warns a Ricardo Campground visitor about the environmental conditions families should prepare for.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park offers services even for non-guests. "There is also a self pay drop box right outside the fenced overnighter area which also has an easily accessed dump station and potable water for $10 fee if you just need to dump and fill," explains a visitor describing the available services.
Overnight security: Some RV camping areas near Red Mountain provide enhanced security features. "Area was very quiet. No road noise and campers were also quiet. It is very well lit all night and cameras are everywhere," notes a Desert Empire Fair RV Park visitor.
Electricity options: Power connections vary between locations. "For overnighters there is a separate area from the long term residents with level pull through sites and full hook ups (20, 30 and 50amp) for $30/night," explains a Bertrand's visitor regarding the electrical hookup options available.
