Hot springs, off-roading, mountain peaks, and rock climbing—Apple Valley brings bushels of fun.
Despite the disappearance of Apple Valley’s orchards, this tiny town in San Bernardino County provides delicious options for a sweet escape. Nestled between Victorville and Hesperia, campers find captivating cabin rentals, grounds for glamping, and a range of nearby campgrounds offering fully equipped RV and tent sites. Discover the history of this beautiful area by visiting the Apple Valley Legacy Museum, take an iconic selfie at The California Route 66 Museum in nearby Victorville, or become immersed in the interactive exhibits at the Victor Valley Museum. Outdoor adventures with a peek into the past await all campers at the southern edge of the Mojave Desert.
Ax the apples and sip some citrus at California Citrus State Historic Park about an hour north of Apple Valley. Despite no camping directly in the park, there are plenty of options in the surrounding areas. Campers won’t need to go far before finding cabin rentals, tent sites, full RV hookups, and mountain retreats. Open year-round, this gracious grove provides the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy some juice. Greeted by an old-fashioned juice stand, visitors can book guided tasting tours of the orchards, explore exhibits in the museum, or test their treasure-hunting skills with some geocaching.
Head about an hour southeast to Holcomb Valley, and discover a piece of the past existing in the present. Once one of the richest gold-mining areas, travelers now trek here for camping, hiking, rock climbing, and water sports. Work your way up to Holcomb Crossing Group Camping with an elevation of 5,292 feet, marvel at the mountainous campsites, or tuck away into the trees. As an added bonus, explore some spooky sites in the nearby ghost town of Belleville.
Grab some fishing rods, and saddle up the horses as you head to Mojave Narrows Regional Park. With surrounding lakes and an on-site splash pad, this campground is a great way to cool things down in the desert sun. Tent sites on the shoreline of Horseshoe Lake, access to fully-equipped RV spots, or group Equestrian-style adventures let campers take to nature in whatever floats their boat—literally! Horseshoe Lake and Pelican Lake make this the perfect park for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Camping near Apple Valley in April, May, September, and October is best, as these shoulder season months offer the beginning and end of warmer weather with a chance of seeing the springtime desert bloom in April and May. The Apple Valley climate is welcoming year-round, and draws campers in for every season to rest, recharge, and breathe in the open air.