The best camping near Bristol Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bristol Lake adventure.

Discover the stark beauty of Bristol Lake amid the Mojave Desert.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Bristol Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Bristol Lake

98%
(156)

Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Joshua Tree, CA
Welcome to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your go-to destination for a unique and memorable camping experience in Joshua Tree. This family-owned and operated park offers breathtaking views from its 2,300 ft elevation, showcasing the beauty of the Mojave Desert and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Joshua Tree Lake RV and Campground has something for everyone. With panoramic views of the North face of Joshua Tree National Park, the ancient Copper Mountain Hills to the North and East, and exceptional desert vistas, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes wherever you look. Office Hours: 8:30 - 8 Sunday - Thursday 8:30 - 9 Friday and Saturday Check-in Begins at 12 PM. Checkout is at 11 AM. The campground is situated on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert and boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. With clear, unpolluted skies, you can enjoy the magnificent night skies and immerse yourself in the beauty of the stars. We want to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so please take note of the following guidelines: Swimming is not permitted in the fishing lake and there is no swimming pool available. Pet owners will be pleased to know that their furry friends are welcome, but there may be an additional fee added to the reservation. Wi-Fi is provided by a third-party company and a separate service fee applies. Please note that we cannot guarantee the speed, rate, or troubleshooting of the Wi-Fi service. For your convenience, a wash station for dishes is available on-site, and the Joshua Tree Laundromat is located 9 miles away in downtown Joshua Tree. For campfires, it is important to keep them contained inside the designated burn barrels and never leave them unattended. In the event of high winds, campfire, and BBQ use may be suspended for safety reasons. So, pack your gear and head to Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, your favorite place to stay while you play in Joshua Tree. Experience the magic of the Mojave Desert and all its natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
95%
(823)

The Castle House: Estate

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Joshua Tree, CA
Units designed to make the everyday extraordinary. Step into a realm where luxury meets rugged beauty at The Castle House: Estate, your gateway to the ULTIMATE "GLAMPING" experience! As seen on HGTV, our tiny home oasis in Joshua Tree redefines accommodation with a unique medieval twist, seamlessly blending indoor-outdoor living and exceptional entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Joshua Tree and just minutes away from the awe-inspiring Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House: Estate stands as a testament to opulence in the desert. Set on 12 picturesque acres, surrounded by vast private undeveloped land, our estate offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Experience a stay like no other in our award-winning haven, recognized with The BNB's prestigious Traveler Best Reviewed Property. But the enchantment doesn't end there—immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of our tiered hexagonal aqua blue cowboy pool, strategically placed on a stunning IPE wood deck. This artistic oasis is a visual masterpiece, inviting you to bask in the sun or stargaze by night. Indulge in the luxury of our room service, available until midnight, offering a curated selection of local fare to tantalize your taste buds. At The Castle House: Estate, we redefine glamping by marrying comfort and adventure, creating an unforgettable escape that transcends the ordinary. Elevate your stay, reinvent yourself, and make memories that last a lifetime at The Castle House: Estate—where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Book your extraordinary desert retreat now and be a part of an experience that's truly fit for royalty!
Pets
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from 
$65.25
 / night
100%
(104)

Camp Deb's Place

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Yucca Valley, CA
Camp Deb's Place is located in Flamingo Heights on a 5 acre well-maintained property that is easily accessible from the highway. Tent and RV sites are currently available. This serene outdoor retreat offers a variety of delightful activities without leaving the grounds. If you enjoy nature, you will love the majestic sunrises, wildlife sightings, and stargazing. Many nearby attractions include Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy + Harriet's, Integratron, Pioneertown, Giant Rock, La Copine, Johnson Valley OHV area, and hiking trails. Deb's Place is perfect for singles, couples, families, and large groups. Reserve one or more campsites or request the entire venue for those seeking a more private experience. On-site amenities include a large covered outdoor kitchen with water and electric, a barbecue, bar, dining area, and a refrigerator; a restroom, shower, and fire-pits are available for guest use.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
93%
(21)

The Cabins at Joshua Tree Lake RV

12 sites · Lodging40 acres · Joshua Tree, CA
Joshua Tree Lake RV partnered with Hostel Cubed to create a mini glamping destination in our beautiful Siesta Circle! Using modular structures with minimal impact on Mother Earth, Hostel Cubed creates experiences in nature that combine the social culture of a hostel with innovative design in a community-driven atmosphere. After a stellar day exploring Joshua Tree, cool off in your Air Conditioned cabin, play with the ducks lakeside, roast some s'mores, or gaze at the Milky Way as you recharge for another memorable day in Joshua Tree. Our family-owned and operated outdoor experience offers charismatic desert scapes & vistas from our 2,300 ft elevation, giving you outstanding sightlines to Mt San Jacinto, Mt San Gorgonio and the North face of Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground is located at the southern edge of the Mojave Desert - offering exceptional desert vistas and spectacular night skies.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night

The best camping near Bristol Lake guide

Overview

About

In the rolling desert hills of the Mojave National Preserve, Bristol Lake is a popular vista point for viewing the Bullion and Old Woman Mountains that encircle the now dry expanse where Bristol Lake used to be. 20 minutes from the astonishing Amboy Crater it's definitely worth it to visit both if you are passing through.

When to go

The best time to visit Bristol Lake is during the cooler months from late fall to early spring, when the desert temperature is mild and the winter rains occasionally create a shallow, reflective pool. Summer visits are challenging due to extreme heat.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as the desert climate can be extreme with high temperatures in summer.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen.
  • Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated amid the arid environment.
  • Be mindful of the delicate ecosystem; take only photos and leave only footprints.
  • Visit the BLM website for the latest information on access and any potential closures.

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