Best Campgrounds near Ridgecrest, CA

Ridgecrest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ridgecrest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Ridgecrest, California (87)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 87 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ridgecrest, CA

323 Reviews of 87 Ridgecrest Campgrounds



Guide to Ridgecrest

Camping near Ridgecrest, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of spots to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "The nature trail is accessible directly from the campground and the views are jaw-dropping and well worth exploring" at Ricardo Campground — Red Rock Canyon State Park.
  • Photography: Capture the breathtaking vistas. A visitor at Trona Pinnacles said, "Beautiful place to play, make sure to bring lots of water," highlighting the area's scenic beauty.
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide a perfect backdrop for stargazing. One camper noted, "The night sky is even more breathtaking" at Fossil Falls Campground.

What campers like:

  • Quiet and Seclusion: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. A review from Wagon Wheel Staging Area stated, "We stayed here 1 night and had the place to ourselves. It is a very large area and quite beautiful."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One visitor at Wildrose Campground — Death Valley National Park said, "A lot of donkeys are on the road to be aware! Between the mountains. Fire pit. Quite windy in the nighttime - loved it."
  • Affordable Camping: Many sites are free or low-cost. A camper at Stine Cove Recreation Site mentioned, "The price is right FREE. I live in Az now but when we go back we always hit the lake."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack basic facilities. A visitor at Rivernook Campground noted, "General store was very limited. Wi-Fi didn’t work; they claimed it was out of service."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads. One camper at Owl Canyon Campground warned, "Nearly 5 miles of either hard washboard dirt road or loose sand that you can get stuck in."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife. A camper at KRS RV Resort@Camp James shared, "A friendly family of bears made their presence at night as the trash cans were ransacked in the morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities. A review from Rivernook Campground mentioned, "Restrooms and showers were very well kept. Good sites right on the river."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. One family at Tehachapi Mountain Park enjoyed, "Beautiful spot. Old school mountainside camping in the tall trees."
  • Stay Safe: Keep an eye on kids, especially around wildlife. A camper at Ricardo Campground advised, "Definitely follow the nature trail up onto the butte/mesa/cliff."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Camp James noted, "Site 4 has a small uphill to back into which if you have an RV or heavy camper you're going to scrap hard backing in."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Bring gear for wind and temperature changes. A camper at Wildrose Campground mentioned, "Quite windy in the nighttime - loved it."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Some campgrounds charge for dump station use. A visitor at Rivernook Campground noted, "Note that although there is a dump station, there is a $20 charge to use it."

Camping in Ridgecrest, CA, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With its unique landscapes and variety of campgrounds, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Ridgecrest, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Ridgecrest, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Ridgecrest, CA and 25 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Ridgecrest, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ridgecrest, CA is Ricardo Campground — Red Rock Canyon State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ridgecrest, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 free dispersed camping spots near Ridgecrest, CA.

  • What parks are near Ridgecrest, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Ridgecrest, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.