RV campgrounds in Ridgecrest, California, offer convenient access to the Mojave Desert's unique landscapes at 2,300 feet elevation. Summer nights cool significantly despite daytime heat, with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees common. Most Ridgecrest camping facilities remain open year-round, though winter can bring occasional freezing temperatures and limited seasonal services.
What to do
Explore ancient lava formations: Visit Fossil Falls Campground, located 40 minutes north of Ridgecrest, to hike through volcanic terrain. "Hike to polished rocks of fossil falls. Great stop on the way to Death Valley," shares a visitor. The area features a cinder cone and dramatic volcanic landscapes with well-spaced campsites for $6 per night.
Experience desert night skies: Red Rock Canyon State Park's Ricardo Campground offers prime stargazing opportunities in a dark sky environment. One camper noted, "The Milky Way was out at night. The trails are stunning." Sites cost $25 standard or $23 for seniors, with most spots requiring some leveling blocks.
Tube down seasonal waterways: When visiting Kernville (90 minutes west), enjoy water activities at Camp James. According to one review, "We were there August 1-6. The River was a little low but it was perfect for us with our 5 year old son. We were able to float down the river in our inner tubes safely."
What campers like
Level sites with space: Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park provides well-maintained overnight areas. "The overnighter spots are separate from the permanent resident area, the spaces are level and very clean," reports one visitor. The park includes a separate section specifically designed for short-term stays.
Clean facilities with enforced quiet hours: Desert Empire Fair RV Park maintains well-kept facilities with reliable amenities. "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 recent camper. The park enforces a structured checkout time with sites available after 2 PM.
Self-service options: Several campgrounds offer convenient self-pay systems for late arrivals. "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 one Bertrand's visitor, highlighting the flexibility for travelers arriving outside office hours.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Mobile coverage differs significantly by carrier and location. At Fossil Falls Campground, one camper reported "Cell service, great for star gazing." However, at more remote sites, connectivity may be limited—a visitor to Red Rock Canyon State Park noted "No AT&T signal. No tesla signal."
Reservation requirements: Some parks require minimum stays during peak periods. A traveler attempting to book at Rivernook Campground shared: "They also require a 4-night minimum stay, so I moved on." Always call ahead to confirm current policies.
Water availability concerns: Many desert campgrounds have limited water sources. At Fossil Falls, a reviewer mentioned: "Water pump that may have worked I didn't try it," while noting "Vault toilet and no trash service." Bring adequate supplies when visiting more primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Rivernook Campground offers river access ideal for families. "My parents took me here every Memorial Day weekend and now we continue this tradition with my kids. The fishing is great, the people are amazing," shares a long-time visitor, highlighting multi-generational appeal.
Choose sites with strategic placement: When camping with children, location within campgrounds matters. At Camp James, one family advised: "We had site 80 which is back up right on the small Creek that runs right thru the middle of the grounds. The kids loved tubing down it all day."
Plan for temperature extremes: Desert camping requires preparation for significant temperature swings. A visitor at Lake Olancha RV Park noted: "The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies," offering a cooling activity option during hot afternoons.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Lake Olancha RV Park has a challenging layout that requires awareness. "It's confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through," cautions one RVer. Note that hookup placement may differ from standard configurations.
Budget-friendly dump options: Several Ridgecrest area camping facilities offer affordable dump services without requiring overnight stays. At Spaceport RV Park, a traveler reported: "Handy stop for water & dump! $2 bucks for water & $5 bucks for the dump," making it an economical option for those passing through.
Leveling challenges: Many desert sites require leveling equipment. At Ricardo Campground, a visitor advised: "Most sights have a little slope... used a few leveling blocks," while another noted sites near the cliffs offer better views but "may be difficult to get level in if you have a motorhome or travel trailer."
