Mid Hills Campground
Perched at 5,600 feet in the New York Mountains, this 26-site campground provides relief from the brutal desert heat below. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, scattered among massive granite boulders and Joshua trees. No water available — bring everything you need. Sites can accommodate large rigs but maneuvering requires patience due to the rocky terrain and tight turns. Generator hours are 8am-6pm daily.
Access via Black Canyon Road from I-40 (17 miles) or Wild Horse Canyon Road from I-15 (22 miles) — both routes are gravel but suitable for any vehicle in dry conditions. Becomes impassable when wet. Popular with rock climbers and stargazers due to exceptional dark skies. First-come basis only, fills quickly on fall and spring weekends.
High-desert refuge with Joshua trees and granite
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | Midhills Campground Road, California Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 5600 ft |
| Nearest town | Essex, California |
| Miles from pavement | 17 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 26 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $25.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | NPS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |