California
BLM Ridgecrest Desert Dispersed Area
Dispersed Camping
Miles of open Mojave Desert spread across rolling hills and washes just outside Ridgecrest, offering classic BLM dispersed camping. Hundreds of established sites scattered across the landscape, from intimate single-rig spots tucked in washes to wide-open areas that can handle group camping. Popular with snowbirds and long-term visitors taking advantage of the 14-day limit.
Access from multiple dirt roads off Highway 178 — most sites reachable by any vehicle. No shade, no water, pack everything in. Can be windy, especially in spring. Town services and resupply just minutes away in Ridgecrest.
Open Mojave dispersed camping near town services
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 2300 ft |
| Nearest town | Ridgecrest, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 1.8 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | Full |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 50 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |