Ridgecrest sits in the Indian Wells Valley at 2,300 feet elevation, surrounded by four mountain ranges. The Mojave Desert terrain creates extreme temperature fluctuations, with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter lows dipping below freezing. Fall and spring bring milder conditions ideal for camping, with average daily temperatures between 60-80°F.
What to do
Explore volcanic formations: Visit Trona Pinnacles, where unusual calcium carbonate spires rise from the dry lakebed. "The landscape is like no other. Felt like Skywalker or Spock was going to walk around a formation at any minute," notes a camper. The 5-mile gravel access road becomes smoother around the pinnacles area.
Rock climbing and bouldering: The unique geology around Ricardo Campground provides ample climbing opportunities. "The trails are stunning," mentions one visitor. Sites back up to scenic rock cliffs with shady overhangs that help keep campers cool during hot days.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening are prime times for desert wildlife spotting. "You can see chuckwalla lizards sun on top of the rocks," reports a camper at Wagon Wheel Staging Area. Jackrabbits are common at dawn and dusk, with several campers noting sightings during their stay.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Wagon Wheel Staging Area offers extensive dispersed camping options. "It's literally a big open desert flat and you park wherever so there's plenty of room for privacy," explains one reviewer. This space allows campers to spread out despite the area's popularity during peak seasons.
Night sky viewing: The desert's dark skies create exceptional stargazing conditions. "We had a nice dark sky for star gazing," reports a visitor. Another adds that "star gazing was on point" at the sites near the rock formations. Minimal light pollution makes astronomical viewing possible with even basic equipment.
Quiet camping experience: Many campers note the peaceful environment. "Everything was completely quiet for us. We were completely alone in the entire area," mentions one visitor. Another reports, "Very quiet at night, doesn't get too windy, very convenient to road and many spacious spots around near rocks."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Desert temperature extremes require preparation. "Will get very hot and windy during afternoon and night," warns a visitor to Fossil Falls dry lake bed. Another camper notes, "It was extremely windy with 50+mph gusts which calmed after the sun went down." Pack for both hot days and potentially cold nights.
Road conditions: Access varies between campgrounds. "The dirt road is worrisome, but it worked out fine with my Tesla model Y," notes a camper at Trona Pinnacles. At Fossil Falls, "the road is maintained but a smidge bumpy and uneven but should be easy for most cars."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. "There are no services available, you are boondocking," explains a camper. Wagon Wheel Staging Area has "2 privies and that's it, so you'll be dry camping," while another adds, "As far as facilities, there are 2 privies and that's it."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife safety education: Teach children about desert wildlife encounters. "We also got a visit from a sidewinder rattlesnake. Just be sure to wear boots, keep kids or animals close, respect the locals," advises a camper at Wagon Wheel Staging Area. Morning wildlife walks provide educational opportunities with reduced heat exposure.
Terrain exploration: Fossil Falls Campground offers unique geological features for children to explore. "Places to walk around places to climb around. If you plan on doing any rock climbing then you're planning on doing this in the morning," suggests one visitor. The ancient lava flows create natural climbing and exploration areas.
Pet-friendly activities: When seeking pet friendly camping near Ridgecrest, California, plan morning and evening activities. "We drove our skoolie in and didn't have any trouble with the small bumps and sand," notes a visitor to Wagon Wheel, where pets can join hiking excursions during cooler hours. Many campgrounds welcome pets but require them to be leashed near wildlife areas.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: For extended stays near Ridgecrest with pets, plan your tank management. "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," notes a visitor to Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park. Another adds, "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."
Level site selection: RVers should scout sites carefully. "Most sites have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks," advises a camper at Ricardo Campground. Another RVer notes, "We found a nice site in the back between two hills that worked for us," highlighting the importance of positioning for comfort and equipment function.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies by location and provider. "I can get up to 3 bars of cell AT&T service in some spots," reports a camper at Wagon Wheel Staging Area. At Fossil Falls dry lake bed, "cell service was good enough that I stayed parked here for the work day," making it suitable for remote workers traveling with pets.
