Van Winkle Mountain Basecamp sits along a dirt road less than a mile from pavement, offering dispersed camping within Mojave National Preserve. The National Park Service manages this drive-in area where campers can set up at three to four informal sites positioned along the access route.
Campfires and pets are permitted, and cell service reaches the area. The location works well for visitors exploring dispersed camping near Mojave National Preserve or using the spot as a base for desert activities. Alcohol is allowed, making this a flexible option for groups seeking an uncrowded camping experience in the preserve.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsVan Winkle Mountain Basecamp is located in California near Amboy
Coordinates
34.77765348 N
115.6075867 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 12/11/25
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 12/11/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Van Winkle Mountain Basecamp needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
- 1 hr 47 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 3 hrs 31 min from El Centro, CA
- 3 hrs 44 min from San Diego, CA




