Camping in City of Rocks National Reserve requires preparation for variable conditions at its 5,500-7,500 foot elevation. The reserve's unique geological environment features massive granite formations dating back 2.5 billion years. Campsites experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, with higher-elevation sites typically 10-15 degrees cooler than lower areas.
What to do
Rock climbing access from campsites: Many climbers choose sites at City of Rocks Campground for direct access to climbing routes. "Plenty of activities as well; climb all day, check out Register Rock, or hike the City of Rocks Loop trail around the site to get a little bit of everything," notes Katherine B.
Thermal soaking after activity: Multiple campers mention the nearby hot springs as a must-do activity. "Durfee Hotsprings in Almo is a must on any visit," suggests Corey K., making this a perfect post-climbing recovery option.
Night sky photography: The park's Dark Sky designation creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "The stars in the sky were still amazing," reports Laura M., who camped at City of Rocks in July. "It is a designated dark sky park, which is cool, but from our site (#63) the lights from the town of Oakley were pretty bright on the horizon."
Historic trail exploration: Visit remnants of the California Trail which passed through the area. "It was interesting to see the emigrants' names on the rocks and imagining them arrive in this small valley of strange formations," describes Scott H., highlighting the historical significance of the reserve.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of the campgrounds creates unusual privacy. "The sites are nicely spread out, with a few pit toilets and refuse cans between them," reports Katherine B. Sites at Smoky Mountain Campground offer even more seclusion: "The RV sites are very private and nicely spread out with pine trees in between. Great views of City of Rocks."
All-level hiking trails: Visitors appreciate the range of hiking options. "Lots of hiking and exploring to do," notes Corey K., while others mention the mountain biking trails and loop trails that connect many of the camping areas.
Bathroom facilities: Despite being a remote location, campers note the clean facilities. "Very clean PRIVATE showers," reports Annell N. at Smoky Mountain Campground, while other campgrounds maintain clean vault toilets: "They have trash and recycling by the bathrooms (which are pit toilets but were clean and stocked while we visited!)."
Local dining options: Several campers mention the small-town food choices available. "The Outpost for a good burger or Rock City for pizzas," suggests Corey K., while others mention Tracy's General Store which "serves meals, has groceries, ice cream, showers, mail service."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "Verizon 3G was poor," notes Annell N., while Laura M. found that "the highest sites towards the end of the road do have cell signal for both verizon and ATT, but everywhere else in the park there was no reception."
Reservation requirements: City of Rocks Camp and Climb camper Mitchell F. notes the importance of planning ahead: "New park with nice open spaces w mostly level gravel parking... Walking distance to the ranger station and town." Most sites require advance booking through Reserve America, with a $10 transaction fee.
Water availability: Water access is limited to specific locations. "If you need water go to the dump site on the way in, there are no spigots at the campsites. When we visited the water was turned off so I was glad I always carry water with me," advises Shelly S.
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities close during off-season. "We were disappointed to find that all the water and restroom facilities were closed during the winter," reports Matthew K. who visited Castle Rocks State Park. "If you're camping off-season, you may as well go into one of the many cheaper and more interesting primitive sites."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Pack for significant temperature changes. "We stayed with our 2 dogs in April, it was definitely warm in the sun, but very cool at night and in the shade. It is high desert, summer months must be stifling!" advises Katherine B.
Shade considerations: Limited natural cover means planning for sun protection. "Shade is key in the summer months. Use the 'Shade Legend' on the NPS site," recommends Niki S. at Bread Loaves Group Campsite.
Site selection strategy: Research site layouts before arriving. "If you have a ton to pack...you may not like this site," warns Angela S. about Bread Loaves, where "the actual campsite is a short distance downhill" from parking.
Free camping options: For budget-conscious families, BLM land outside the reserve offers no-cost alternatives. "These are all FREE campsites. As the land is BLM it is public land and there is no charge," explains Tate W. about dispersed camping areas, though "the road is very bad. Cobbles, ruts, some large rocks."
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Larger RVs have fewer site options. "We have bigger RV so some of the spots would not work. Make sure you use the filter to eliminate those with a smaller driveway," advises Russell B. who stayed at Scruffy Buffalo Ranch.
EV charging availability: Electric vehicles can find charging options at newer campgrounds. "The owner, Steve, is super accommodating and cool with charging your EV at the campsite," notes Kurt Z. "Electric and water taps are on even numbered sites and shared with the adjacent odd numbered site."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal before arrival. "No hookups or dump station at this park, but we stopped at the Castle Rock campground on the way out and filled our tank with potable water and dumped for free," shares Laura M.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Not the most level we've been in but totally workable," Nancy C. notes about Smoky Mountain Campground, while Evan W. found at dispersed sites that it was "relatively hard to find a level spot, but not terrible."
