Afton Canyon Campground — BLM Mojave Desert
Afton Canyon Campground sits right in the gut of the canyon, managed by BLM Barstow Field Office. You’ve got developed sites with fire rings and vault toilets, and the Mojave River running nearby — actual water in the desert, which means cottonwoods, birds, and a completely different vibe from the surrounding hardpan. It’s a legitimate Mojave Road waypoint; the historic trail passes right through here. Weekends bring the OHV crowd but weeknights are quiet. Fire restrictions apply spring through fall — check BLM before you light up.
Access is via Afton Canyon Road off I-15 about 35 miles east of Barstow — roughly 3 miles of maintained dirt road suitable for any clearance. The camp sits at low elevation, so summers bake. October through April is the sweet spot. No reservations — first come, first served.
Mojave River oasis on the historic Mojave Road.
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 1765 ft |
| Nearest town | Baker, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 3 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $8.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Toilets, Trash service |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |