The best camping near Castle Mountains National Monument

You'll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle to get into this extremely remote national monument in the eastern Mojave Desert. Accessible only by dirt roads, Castle Mountains is surrounded on three sides by the Mojave National Preserve. It's the northernmost of the desert region's three new national monuments designated by President Obama in 2016.

This park in northeastern San Bernardino County protects 20,920 acres, located between the interstates I−15 and I−40. There are no facilities, developed campgrounds, or established trails within the monument. Backcountry camping is allowed.

Castle Peaks is one of the stars here—a cluster of imposing spires that climb skyward. The peaks are composed mainly of volcanic tuff, and the deep erosion of the rocks has created distinct, sharp summits. You're also rewarded for your efforts to get here by lush grasslands, Joshua tree forests, mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife. The rugged Mojave Desert is home to mountain lions, bighorn sheep, golden eagles, coyotes, and bobcats.

Castle Mountains National Monument is always open, but the best times to come are spring and fall. March and April are peak times. The spring rains turn the desert into a carpet of vivid, vibrant wildflowers. Summers are very hot, with daytime temps in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Find visitor information at Mojave National Preserve Headquarters in Barstow and at Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. Developed sites are available within the Mojave Preserve, and equestrian campsites are available at Black Canyon. Be sure you know the way into the Castle Mountains, and call to check conditions. The dirt roads wash out regularly.

Stay a little longer—View all nearby options for camping on Hipcamp.