The Trona area offers camping options surrounded by stark Mojave Desert landscape at elevations between 1,700 and 5,000 feet. Located near Death Valley and the Panamint Mountain Range, this region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations with summer nights rarely dropping below 80°F and winter temperatures sometimes reaching freezing.
What to Do
Explore unique geological features: Head to Fossil Falls Campground where volcanic rock formations create an unusual landscape. "There is a nice, little hike through ancient lava fields to dry lava falls. Minor noise from highway about 1 mile away," notes one camper who found it a pleasant surprise during their travels.
Visit nearby state parks: Ricardo Campground at Red Rock Canyon State Park offers excellent hiking with dramatic rock formations. A visitor reports, "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."
Stargaze at higher elevations: The clear desert air and minimal light pollution make for exceptional night viewing. At Wildrose Campground, a camper mentioned, "The highlight here are the incredible desert vistas. You get a little window from the site but a short hike or drive and you are looking at Death Valley below."
What Campers Like
Affordability in remote locations: Many sites offer low-cost options for overnight stays. One camper at Minietta Road mentioned, "Great for a night or two, heading towards or leaving Death Valley between Joshua Tree. You are literally in the middle of nowhere. No cell phone reception, amenities, nothing, not even shelter, but yet so peaceful and quiet."
Peace and solitude: The remote nature of these camping areas provides quiet experiences away from crowds. A visitor to Chimney Creek Campground shared, "This is a good, secluded, peaceful place to unwind. The dirt road to get there was totally doable in our Transit Van."
Strategic location for regional exploration: Campers appreciate using Trona area campgrounds as a base for Death Valley trips. At Panamint Springs Resort, a camper noted, "If I were to return to Death Valley I would stay there again. Very well developed campground privately owned by super cool people."
What You Should Know
Weather extremes require preparation: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations. A visitor to Wildrose Campground mentioned, "It was pretty chilly overnight as this campground is at a higher elevation."
Limited amenities in remote areas: Many dispersed camping locations have no facilities. At Chimney Creek, a camper reported, "Remote camping site that most sites are overgrown. On other hand this leaves about 6-8 sites randomly placed among the original 30. Water appears to have been turned off."
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require driving on dirt or rough roads. For Fossil Falls, a reviewer cautioned, "Packed dirt road last 1/2 mile starting to have minor wash-boarding but still good condition."
Tips for Camping with Families
Find campgrounds with activities: Some sites offer more than just camping spots. At Lake Olancha RV Park & Campground, one camper mentioned, "Awesome place, can't get beat the zip line. Gonna be coming back for sure."
Look for water features: During hot months, water access makes camping more enjoyable. A Lake Olancha visitor noted, "A lovely site, both scenic and peaceful. The small lake was ideal for a bit of casual kayaking and nature watching - mostly birds and dragonflies."
Consider wildlife encounters: Desert wildlife can be fascinating but requires caution. At Panamint Springs, a visitor warned, "Sleeping off the ground or in a tent is a must as we catch lots of sidewinders and scorpions every year in the campsite."
Tips from RVers
Plan fuel stops strategically: Gas stations are limited in the area. One camper at Wildrose Campground cautioned, "The nearest gas station is about 45 mins away and you have to drive through a very tight windy road that feels like forever. So make sure you are fueled up."
Consider water availability: Many rv campgrounds near Trona, California have limited or no water hookups. For Bertrand's High Desert Mobile Home & RV Park, a reviewer noted, "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."
Be prepared for varied site conditions: RV sites around Trona vary significantly in quality and levelness. At Lake Olancha, a camper reported, "It's confusing to find the campsite. No signs directing you where to go. You have to drive behind the sites and pull through. Sites are small and you're basically packed together. Power and water are on the right instead of left."
