Best Campgrounds near Ridgecrest, CA
The high desert landscape surrounding Ridgecrest, California encompasses diverse camping environments ranging from established campgrounds to remote dispersed sites on public lands. Ricardo Campground in Red Rock Canyon State Park, about 25 miles southwest of town, offers developed sites with picnic tables and fire rings nestled against dramatic red rock formations. For those seeking solitude, the Trona Pinnacles area provides dispersed camping among unique tufa spires on Bureau of Land Management property. Several RV parks within Ridgecrest city limits offer full hookups, including Desert Empire Fair RV Park and Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park, while Wagon Wheel Staging Area provides a middle ground with basic facilities in a dispersed setting.
Desert camping conditions require careful preparation, particularly regarding water and weather. Most dispersed sites lack potable water, with campers noting this limitation at Trona Pinnacles: "There is so much room and a huge choice when camping here, there isn't however, potable water or shade unless you bring your own." Wind presents a significant challenge, with several reviewers mentioning strong evening gusts that can affect tents and awnings. Access roads to remote sites often feature washboard surfaces and occasional ruts, though most remain passable without specialized vehicles. Cell service becomes limited outside town, particularly at Trona Pinnacles where "there's no service until you get to about Ridgecrest, so about 10 miles out from the start of the unpaved road."
Stargazing opportunities rank among the most frequently praised aspects of camping in this region. The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing, though campers note some glow from nearby communities. Temperature extremes characterize the area, with cold nights even when days are warm. Ricardo Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its scenery and accessibility: "Most people drive right through this state park, but spend a night here and you'll feel like you are days away from urban life, even though it's just a short 2 hours drive from LA." Off-road recreation areas surround many camping zones, providing additional activities but occasionally creating noise concerns, particularly on weekends when OHV traffic increases.
