Tucked into a natural break in the desert landscape, Afton Canyon feels like stumbling onto an oasis. The Mojave River surfaces here, creating cottonwoods and cattails that seem impossible in this stark country. Twenty-two sites spread along the canyon bottom, most with decent shade and fire rings. Gets busy on weekends with the LA crowd, but weekdays you might have the place to yourself.
Access is via 3 miles of graded dirt road that any vehicle can handle. The canyon walls make cell service spotty at best. Train tracks run right through camp — BNSF freight trains roll through day and night, so pack earplugs or embrace the lonesome whistle.
Desert river oasis with train whistle lullabies
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | 2601 Mojave Road, California Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Barstow, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 3.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Graded dirt |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 22 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $6.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Shade, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |