With its jagged red-and-white-striped canyons, soaring cliffs, and dusty trails, it’s little surprise that Red Rock Canyon State Park has a host of Hollywood Westerns (plus a Destiny’s Child music video) on its resumé. If you’re not here as cast or crew, you’ve probably come for the trails, and movie-worthy views await at every turn. Saddle up for a horseback ride, bring your OTV, or enjoy a scenic hike beneath dramatic rock formations. Campers can sleep beneath the stars (the canyon is a renowned stargazing spot) at Ricardo Campground.

1. The 50 campsites at Ricardo Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
2. The campground can fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays—plan to arrive on a Thursday evening or early Friday morning to avoid disappointment.

Day-trippers and campers flock to Red Rock Canyon State Park from spring through fall, and popular trails can get crowded, especially on weekends. Summer temperatures can reach 100°F, so come prepared with plenty of water and avoid hiking through the hottest time of the day. Our advice? Visit in spring when wildflowers bloom through the desert valleys, or in fall, when the mild weather is ideal for hiking. 

• Red Rock Canyon State Park is on Highway 14, 25 miles northeast of Mojave or about a 25-minute drive away. It’s about a 2-hour drive north of Los Angeles.
• Daily parking fees and camping fees are charged at the state park.
• Facilities at Red Rock Canyon State Park include a visitor center, restrooms, and picnic tables. Ricardo Campground has pit toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. There are no electric hookups or showers, and the maximum RV size is 30 feet. 
• There are accessible campsites, picnic areas, and restrooms at Red Rock Canyon.

Embark on a unique camping adventure amidst the otherworldly landscape of Trona Pinnacles. Set up camp near the towering Tufa formations, explore the ancient fossil beds, and stargaze under clear night skies.