The best desert camping near Ridgecrest

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Looking to experience the desert in all its glory near Ridgecrest, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you'll find over 1,700 options specifically tailored to your desert terrain preference. With options as low as $5 per night and an average price of $30 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out the top-rated Death Valley Stargazing Camp (171 reviews), Death Valley Camp (132 reviews), and Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews) for a stellar camping experience. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and the ability to bring your furry friend along. Plus, get your adrenaline pumping with activities like off-roading (OHV), swimming, and exploring historic sites. Don't miss out on the ultimate desert camping adventure!

95% (366)

Top-rated campgrounds

Underworld Farms

3. Underworld Farms

86%
(43)
44mi from Ridgecrest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kernville, CA
Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as our son's 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

6. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
23mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

15. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(43)
39mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weldon, CA
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

17. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
17mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
$29
 / night
Frandy Park Campground

20. Frandy Park Campground

100%
(1)
43mi from Ridgecrest · 106 sites · Kernville, CA
Frandy Park Campground stands out as a premier destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable camping experience in Kernville, California, thanks to its stunning location along the Kern River, surrounded by majestic oak woodlands and steep hillsides. This unique setting offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including back-in and pull-thru sites with water and electric hookups, as well as ample space for tent camping. Guests can take advantage of our many amenities, such as complimentary WiFi, a convenient dump station, clean showers, and outdoor games to enhance their stay. At Frandy Park, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities. Enjoy volleyball, tennis, and horseshoes, or venture out for kayaking, swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're here to paddle down the river, explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest, or simply unwind in nature, Frandy Park is the ideal campground in the Kern River Valley. We look forward to welcoming you for a night or two of relaxation and adventure!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

Looking to experience the desert in all its glory near Ridgecrest, California? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you'll find over 1,700 options specifically tailored to your desert terrain preference. With options as low as $5 per night and an average price of $30 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out the top-rated Death Valley Stargazing Camp (171 reviews), Death Valley Camp (132 reviews), and Bowen Springs Camp Retreat (127 reviews) for a stellar camping experience. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and the ability to bring your furry friend along. Plus, get your adrenaline pumping with activities like off-roading (OHV), swimming, and exploring historic sites. Don't miss out on the ultimate desert camping adventure!

95% (366)

Top-rated campgrounds

Underworld Farms

3. Underworld Farms

86%
(43)
44mi from Ridgecrest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kernville, CA
Underworld Farms is a small goat ranch in the Kern River Valley. Surrounded by forestry land, on the Kern River, and on top of what used to be the old town of Whiskey Flat (Later re-named Kernville). There is no end to the beauty, history and adventure all around the property. Life took us to the Kern River Valley after moving out of Los Angeles. We enjoy living in the Southern Sierras immersed in all its natural beauty. The small but magnificent town of Kernville is approximately two and a half miles north of us. Our livestock includes horses, dairy goats, sheep, and rabbits: Most of which are raised and bred as our son's 4H or FFA projects. You may be wondering why our farm is called "Underworld Farms". In a nutshell, since our ranch is on the footprint of the historic town of Whiskey Flat, we just happen to be south of the old Whiskey Flat "Boot Hill" Cemetery. Our "driveway" is the road that led from the old town of Kernville to the cemetery. We hope that you consider parking your RV, van conversion, or trailer on one of our customized spots on the property. Or drive your vehicle and pitch a tent on one of our tent friendly sports. Or enjoy a stay in one of our small cabins. Regardless of what you stay in, you will definitely have a memorable time. The campground is VERY barebones and rural. Critters, bugs, and sometimes fellow Hipcampers can be sparce or prevalent pretty randomly. Because Underworld Farms is a working ranch, you will probably hear livestock noises like horses neighing, sheep and goats calling, and our protector dogs barking from time to time. We encourage you to walk over to the horses and goats and meet them. They especially like when you bring them carrots or apple pieces. The ranch has a double outhouse with a hand washing station sandwiched in between, it is rustic and bare bones. We check it to see if it has paper products, soap, water, and plenty of room in the trash bins. During the hotter months, the "daddy longleg" spiders enjoy infiltrating the outhouses and seem to spin new webs overnight. But they and their webs are harmless and easy to brush off. We ask for your assistance if there is something missing, or the trash needs taking out, or if the spiders have taken over again by getting ahold of us through the Hipcamp App and letting us know. With all that being said, there is an ambient beauty here that is unbelievable and memorable. This beauty and draw is so powerful that it causes the many people who come visit to make arrangements to live in our little valley. There is much to do in and around our valley that you couldn't do it all in a lifetime. We hope that you come and stay at the ranch while enjoying our valley. May you have a great time. *** THE PIN MAP ON HIPCAMP IS NOT 100% ACCURATE. PLEASE REFFER TO THE MAP OF THE PROPERTY IN THE PHOTOS
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
777 Cuddeback Rd

6. 777 Cuddeback Rd

100%
(1)
23mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johannesburg, CA
Desert Serenity at Cuddeback Lake Escape to your own private desert oasis! Our 40-property at the top of Cuddeback Lake offers a unique experience in the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by vast open space and rugged beauty, it’s perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude. What to Expect: • Expansive Views: Enjoy stunning sunrises, sunsets, and endless desert landscapes. • Off-Road Adventures: Soft sandy terrain great for motorcycles, ATVs, and 4x4s. Explore nearby trails and the dry lakebed. • Stargazing Haven: Minimal light pollution makes for incredible night skies. • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding in nature. • Creative Backdrop: Perfect for artists, photographers, and filmmakers. Accessibility & Amenities: • Easy access via a hard-packed road. • Soft sand throughout, but vehicles can navigate without issues. • Campfires allowed (check local fire regulations). • Guests can grade or compact small areas if needed. Nearby Activities: • Explore historic mining sites and rugged desert terrain. • Scenic drives and off-roading at Cuddeback Dry Lake. • Discover unique landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or relaxation, this desert escape offers it all. Book your stay and experience the beauty of the Mojave!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Wandering Star Ranch

15. Wandering Star Ranch

99%
(43)
39mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weldon, CA
Learn more about this land: Why book a camp site when you can book the campground? The Wandering Star is a private 20 acre dispersed group camp- Entire property (all sites) included in rental.  Bring a lock (Gate and Chain provided) and claim your retreat. Take your jeep or ATVs through our gates straight into the BrightStar BLM Wilderness which abuts the property on two sides and extends into the Jawbone wilderness.  Beginners can ride the extensive trails on the property itself. Play your music, dance naked, let your dogs run free... Enjoy the fantastic star gazing. Visit the primitive firing range a two minute walk away or by jeep, or plink varmints on site. Hiking, Biking.  Nearby fishing, swimming, boating in the Kern River or Lake . Situated on the back side of the lake, this site provides more sunlight time than many other sites around the lake.  In some cases close to 2 hours. Close to the lake at Mt. Mesa, boat launch, South fork Audubon nature preserve, restaurants, and scenic back road to Kernville. Gas/Diesel and Market with Deli 5 minutes away. (Ice, wood, adult beverages, fishing tackle, full grocery)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
Golden Cactus Ghost Town

17. Golden Cactus Ghost Town

100%
(1)
17mi from Ridgecrest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pearsonville, CA
Golden Cactus Ghost Town is a great place to rest and relax, surrounded by beautiful views in every direction. You can explore the ghost town itself or hike into No Name Canyon, where you’ll find a small river. There are also many dirt roads behind the property, perfect for dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles. The property is located just ¾ mile north of the Pearsonville Shell gas station and only 10 minutes from the nearest town. A public restroom is available next to the picnic area, where you can also enjoy a barbecue if you wish. For RVs, we currently offer a 30-amp power outlet if you’d like to hook something up. Please note there are no gray or black water dumping facilities available. If you’re camping outdoors, feel free to set up your tent in the designated area, which also includes access to a power outlet.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
$29
 / night
Frandy Park Campground

20. Frandy Park Campground

100%
(1)
43mi from Ridgecrest · 106 sites · Kernville, CA
Frandy Park Campground stands out as a premier destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable camping experience in Kernville, California, thanks to its stunning location along the Kern River, surrounded by majestic oak woodlands and steep hillsides. This unique setting offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including back-in and pull-thru sites with water and electric hookups, as well as ample space for tent camping. Guests can take advantage of our many amenities, such as complimentary WiFi, a convenient dump station, clean showers, and outdoor games to enhance their stay. At Frandy Park, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities. Enjoy volleyball, tennis, and horseshoes, or venture out for kayaking, swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're here to paddle down the river, explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest, or simply unwind in nature, Frandy Park is the ideal campground in the Kern River Valley. We look forward to welcoming you for a night or two of relaxation and adventure!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field