Best Camping Near Barstow, CA

Discover Adventure: Camping in Barstow, CA - Explore Ghost Towns, Scenic Canyons, and Historic Sites with KOA

5

Nearby Campgrounds

579

Nearby Camp Sites

4.3

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Barstow, California

5 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Barstow, California

  • Calico Ghost Town - Just 10 miles from Barstow, this historic silver mining town offers a glimpse into the Old West with restored buildings, mine tours, and reenactments.

  • Rainbow Basin Natural Area - Located about 8 miles north of Barstow, this area is known for its colorful rock formations and scenic hiking trails.

  • Mojave River Valley Museum - Situated in Barstow, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Mojave Desert region through various exhibits and artifacts.

  • Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch - Approximately 30 miles from Barstow on Route 66 in Oro Grande, this quirky roadside attraction features hundreds of bottle trees created by artist Elmer Long.

  • Afton Canyon Natural Area - About 37 miles from Barstow, Afton Canyon offers stunning desert landscapes with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring unique geological formations.

  • Pisgah Crater Lava Tubes - Roughly 50 miles southwest of Barstow near Ludlow, these lava tubes are part of an ancient volcanic field that provides a fascinating spot for exploration and photography.

  • Big Bear Lake Recreation Area - Around 75 miles south of Barstow in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake offers year-round outdoor activities including boating, fishing, hiking trails in summer; skiing and snowboarding during winter months.

Ways to camp near Barstow, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can explore the Calico Ghost Town, an old silver mining town with original structures and a living history museum.

Yes, you can visit several museums including the Mojave Valley River Museum and the Route 66 "Mother Road" Museum.

The Cabazon Outlets offer a variety of shopping options with numerous stores to explore.

You can enjoy ranger programs in Joshua Tree National Park or explore hiking trails in Indian Canyons.

The Alta Sierra Ski Resort offers skiing opportunities during the winter season.

Yes, there are several casinos nearby where you can enjoy gaming and entertainment options.

Plan a trip to Barstow, California

Plan a trip to Barstow, California

Planning a camping trip to Barstow, CA is an adventure waiting to happen! Nestled in the Mojave Desert, Barstow offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor fun. With several KOA campgrounds nearby, including the Barstow / Calico KOA Holiday and Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA Holiday, you'll find the perfect spot to set up camp.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for exploring Barstow. The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or visiting local attractions.

Weather Expectations: Summers can be hot with clear skies—perfect for stargazing. Winters are cooler but still enjoyable with plenty of sunshine.

Packing Essentials:

  • Clothing: Lightweight layers for daytime adventures and warmer clothes for cool desert nights.
  • Gear: A sturdy pair of hiking boots will serve you well on trails like those at Rainbow Basin.
  • Extras: Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat; the desert sun can be intense!

Trip Planning Tips:

  1. Explore Local Attractions: Visit Calico Ghost Town to step back into California’s silver mining past or enjoy a movie under the stars at Skyline Drive-In.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Always carry water when exploring outdoors.
  3. Check Campground Amenities: Each KOA offers unique features—whether it’s swimming pools or pet-friendly areas—so choose one that fits your needs.

Barstow's charm lies in its rugged landscapes and rich history. Whether you're off-roading in Mule Canyon or discovering ancient petroglyphs at Black Mountain Rock Art District, there's something here for every adventurer!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Barstow, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Barstow, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.