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Established Camping

Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground, near Barstow, California, is a rugged spot that offers a unique desert camping experience. With its dry, clean sites and good cell service, it’s a solid choice for those looking to disconnect while still staying connected.

This campground is all about the basics, featuring toilets and trash disposal, but don’t expect any frills like showers or drinking water. Campers have enjoyed the level spots and the quiet nights, making it a great place to kick back and soak in the starry skies. One visitor noted, “We really enjoyed our weekend... Very cool spot in the Mojave. We will be back.”

For outdoor adventurers, the surrounding Rainbow Basin Natural Area is perfect for hiking and exploring. The scenic drives and trails offer stunning views of the unique landscape, with plenty of opportunities for photography, especially at dawn and dusk. Just be aware that the road in can be a bit rough, so take it slow.

While some campers have pointed out the lack of amenities, the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make up for it. If you’re looking for a straightforward camping experience where you can enjoy the great outdoors, Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground is worth checking out.

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Location

Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Rainbow Basin Natural Area is located 8 miles north of Barstow, California, off Irwin Road (not Fort Irwin Road). The main acess route is Fossil Bed Road.

Address

Bureau of Land ManagementBarstow Field Office2601 Barstow Rd.
Barstow, CA 92311

Coordinates

35.01236944 N
117.0385861 W

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Drive Time

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

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Reviews

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3.5

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 16, 2021

Wrong Pin

This pin took me to private property and the owner wasn't too happy about it and me being there. The actual Owl Canyon Campground is down the road to the East of the pin. There are two pins for Owl Canyon Campground, one is correct and this one listed as Rainbow Basin Owl Canyon Campground is incorrect

Reviewed Nov. 16, 2020

Nov. weekend trip.

We really enjoyed our weekend. We camped one night and explored/ hiked around the area. We also did the scenic drive. Very cool spot in the Mojave. We will be back.

  • Review photo of Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground by Tommy B., November 16, 2020
  • Review photo of Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground by Tommy B., November 16, 2020
  • Review photo of Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground by Tommy B., November 16, 2020
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Nov. 4, 2020

Fabulous camping!

Potable water. Toilets houses. BBQ. Fire pits. 5 mile washboard road in! Go slow! Dark nights. Very quiet. Clean.

  • Review photo of Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground by Michele H., November 4, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground?

Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground is located at 2902 feet.

Is there cell phone reception at Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is excellent coverage for AT&T, excellent coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.