Reservations possible?
No
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Red Rock Canyon State Park is a beautiful desert location for Geological viewing. Historic Native American and settler interaction in this region makes for a great historical visit upon the heels of 19th century travelers. The Ricardo Campground lies next to Black Mountain Wilderness, and it provides an excellent opportunity to spend a night in the desert without driving too far.

The area is beautiful, with natural red hues in every direction. The formations don't end at the campground, and there are some walking and hiking trails nearby as well as four-wheel drive trails for the well equipped (these roads are signed). Joshua tree groves are frequent in the open space between roads and walls. Head to the distant sites in the loop for easier access to trails.

Camping at Ricardo Campground is first-come, first-served for all 50 sites. Potable water is available along with fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets; firewood can be purchased from the campground host. RVs up to 30 feet are allowed, though there are no hookups in the campground.

The southernmost tip of the Sierra does not let up for the ill-prepared. Campsites are very dusty (bringing a rainfly or sleeping in car/camper is recommended), and shade only comes naturally during the morning and evening hours against the rock walls. July temperatures easily exceed 100 degrees during the day. Those without RVs or shade tarps may prefer to camp elsewhere or plan activities outside of the campsite during the hottest part of the day.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter

Parking Pass

State Park Fee

Pros

Interesting geological features. Desert beauty. Bathrooms and firepits.

Cons

Extremely dusty. Very hot.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Managed by

California State Parks

Features

Flushing toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas

Recommended Campsites Without Photos

40-49

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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