Planning a desert camping trip in California means navigating reservations, understanding cancellation policies, and setting up alerts for last-minute openings. This guide covers everything you need to know to secure your spot under the stars.
TL;DR: - Book California desert campsites 6 months ahead on Recreation.gov for popular spots like Joshua Tree or Death Valley. - Cancellation policies vary: state parks often allow changes 2–7 days prior; national forests may be more flexible. - Use alert services like Campflare or Campsite Tonight for sold-out campgrounds. - Always check fire restrictions and weather swings—desert nights get cold.
How to Make Camping Reservations in California’s Desert
California’s desert campgrounds—especially in high-demand areas like Joshua Tree, Anza-Borrego, and Death Valley—require advance planning. Reservations for most state and national park sites open 6 months in advance at 8 AM PST on Recreation.gov. For popular weekends, sites can book within minutes.
Local tip: Set a calendar reminder for your booking window. Have alternative dates and campgrounds in mind in case your first choice is unavailable.
Understanding Cancellation Policies and Refunds
Cancellation rules differ by managing agency:
- California State Parks: Typically allow cancellations up to 2 days before arrival for a partial refund (minus a fee). No-shows forfeit all fees.
- National Parks (e.g., Joshua Tree): Cancel up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund minus transaction fee. Earlier cancellations may have smaller fees.
- BLM and National Forests: Often more flexible, with policies varying by site. Some offer full refunds up to 14 days prior.
- Private Campgrounds: Policies vary widely; always read terms before booking.
Refunds are usually processed within 5–10 business days back to your original payment method.
Setting Up Campsite Availability Alerts
For sold-out campgrounds, use free alert services like Campflare or Campsite Notifier. These platforms monitor Recreation.gov and notify you via email or text when a site becomes available due to cancellations.
Local tip: Alerts are most effective for weekdays or off-peak seasons. For holiday weekends, set multiple alerts and be ready to book immediately.
Top Desert Campgrounds in California with Booking Tips
- Joshua Tree National Park (Jumbo Rocks) – Tent and RV sites. Reservations essential October–May. Book exactly at 6-month window.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (Borrego Palm Canyon) – RV and tent sites with hookups. Less competitive than Joshua Tree but still book early.
- Death Valley National Park (Furnace Creek) – RV-friendly with full hookups. Reserve 4–6 months ahead for winter season.
- Alabama Hills (Bureau of Land Management) – Free, dispersed camping. No reservations needed, but arrive early for best spots.
- Mojave National Preserve (Mid Hills Campground) – First-come, first-served. Ideal for spontaneous trips.
- Red Rock Canyon State Park – Reservable sites for tents and small RVs. Less crowded, good alternative.
Seasonal Considerations and Crowd Avoidance
Desert camping is best October–April to avoid extreme heat. Holiday weekends (e.g., Thanksgiving, Presidents Day) are busiest. For solitude, target weekdays or shoulder months like April or October.
Cancellations also happen all the time, checkout reservation trends at Jumbo Rocks and Furnace Creek from recreation.gov data
Local tip: At high-elevation desert sites (e.g., Joshua Tree’s Black Rock Canyon), nights can drop below freezing even in spring—pack accordingly.
California Desert Camping Checklist
- [ ] Reservation confirmation printed or saved offline
- [ ] Cancellation policy noted for your campground
- [ ] Weather-appropriate gear (layers for cold nights)
- [ ] Plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- [ ] Sun protection and shade
- [ ] Fire permit if required (check current restrictions)
- [ ] Bear box or secure food storage
