Red Rock Canyon State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Red Rock Canyon State Park is located in southern California in the Tehachapi District, about 80 miles east of Bakersfield and 25 miles north of Mojave. The state park covers approximately 27,000 acres and is most famous for its scenic desert cliffs, buttes and spectacular rock formations. The area has a rich historical past, as it was once home to the Kawaiisu Indians, who left petroglyphs in the El Paso mountains and other evidence of their inhabitation.
Along with the beauty of the desert, the state park also produces a stunning showcase of flowers after experiencing a wet winter. During these months, temperatures reach 45°F - 62°. In contrast, the summer months see averages of 72° - 101°. Due to its dry climate, Red Rock Canyon is home to wildlife such as roadrunners, hawks, lizards, mice and squirrels.
If you’re planning a visit to this state park, you’ll want to read on to find out about camping, activities both inside and outside of the park, how to get here, and more.
Spring 51°F - 85°F
Summer 72°F - 101°F
Fall 53°F- 93°F
Winter 45°F - 62°F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Red Rock Canyon State Park
There are plenty of camping opportunities in and around Red Rock Canyon State Park, including both within tents and RVs. If glamping it up with a cosy bed, fully-stocked kitchen, and private bathroom is more your style, then we recommend visiting this stunning place in an RV. If you don’t own one, you can easily rent an RV fromRVshare.com to suit your budget and needs. All rentals come with nationwide insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a world-class team dedicated to helping you succeed.
There are 50 primitive campsites found within the state park at Ricardo Campground. The campground is tucked up against the base of dramatic desert cliffs, however there are no RV hook-ups or showers. Here are some other recommended campgrounds and RV parks within vicinity to Red Rock Canyon.
Walker Pass Campground
Walker Pass Campground is a free facility located just 27 miles from the state park. It provides beautiful views of the surrounding area, but just keep in mind there is no potable water available at this site. Instead, stock up on bottled water before you arrive.
Water hookup: no
Electrical hookup: no
Sewer hookup: no
Wifi: no
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, hitching racks and corrals are available for horses.
Lake Isabella / Kern River KOA
Lake Isabella / Kern River KOA is located in the Sierra Mountains and the campground also backs onto the Kern River Preserve. You and your family will love the ice cream socials, crafts, games for all ages, pancake breakfasts and movie nights to help make your stay even more enjoyable.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wifi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: family pool, splash zone play area, camping kitchen, playground, game room, general store, pub, dog park, bike rentals.
Spaceport RV Park
If you’re looking for somewhere close-by and affordable to stay at, thenSpaceport RV Park seems to tick all of the boxes. It’ll give you a base for your RV that’s just 25 miles from the state park, as well as access to necessary amenities. The nightly rate is $20.00.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wifi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: dump station, laundry facilities, WiFi, restrooms, showers, potable water, picnic area.
What to Do at
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Inside Red Rock Canyon State Park
While Red Rock Canyon State Park is popular due to its camping, it’s also a widely-visited region because of the number of fun recreational activities on offer. With its scenic desert cliffs, buttes and spectacular rock formations, the park offers stunning sightseeing and exploration opportunities. Additionally, visitors can make use of the region’s several trails designed for hiking, bicycling, and horse-riding.
Hiking : Several miles oftrails meander through the dramatic landscape of the park, making exploration on foot one of the best ways to explore the area. It is recommended that you bring twice as much water as you think you need, as well as additional clothing for sudden fluctuations in temperature.
Bicycling : While off-road cycling is not allowed, bicycle riders can enjoy all improved and primitive roads. You’re certainly in for a scenic and breathtaking cycle!
Horse riding : Horses are not allowed in the campgrounds, however equestrian day use out from the Red Cliffs parking area is still allowed. Horses are allowed on all roads in the park, with the exception of seasonally closed areas.
Park Programs : Guided nature hikes and campfire programs are offered during the spring and fall. These cater to visitors of all ages, including both adults and children. See an updated schedule of eventshere.
Wildflower viewing : Wildflower season is generally from mid-March through April and into May, but only if the area has received plenty of rainfall (and no sudden heatwaves) during this time. Occasionally, it can extend into June if weather is still mild. You can expect to see Mojave Aster, Monkey Flowers, Yellow Primrose, Indigo Bush, Desert Trumpet, and more.
How to Get to
Red Rock Canyon State Park
The park is 120 miles north of Los Angeles, via Interstate 5 and Highway 14. Take I-5 North and use the right two lanes to take exit 162 to merge onto CA-14 N toward Palmdale Lancaster. Continue on Highway 14/Midland Trail (25 miles northeast of Mojave). After entering Red Rock Canyon State Park you will see large Red Cliffs on the right hand side of the road. Stay in the left-hand lane and turn left onto Abbott Drive. Go west 1/4 mile on Abbott Drive to Visitor Center and Ricardo Campground.
Entering Red Rock Canyon State Park
The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle per day to access the Desert View Nature Trail, the Ricardo Nature Trail, the Visitor Center, and the campground.
We’re very excited that you’re planning a trip to Red Rock Canyon State Park. Once you’ve finished exploring all that the park has to offer, there are also some incredible opportunities waiting for you outside of its gates! During or after your stay, we encourage you to tag us in any of your social media posts, or why not share your photos and experience with us at [email protected]? We may even feature your story on our blog or social media channels. Happy camping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Rock Canyon State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park and the surrounding area experience a subtropical climate. Summers are hot and dry and winters are mild and see only slight rainfall. Temperatures rarely drop below 40.
Although Red Rock Canyon State Park is beautiful all year, the best months to visit are April, May, September, and October. These months see warm but mild with temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
Common wildlife in Red Rock Canyon State Park includes ground squirrels, jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, kangaroo rats, coyotes, kit and gray foxes, bobcats, bighorn sheep, and a range of birds, snakes, and lizards.
Dogs are allowed in the campground, picnic areas, and on primitive roads, but they are not permitted on the park’s trails. Pets must remain leashed and controlled at all times.
The park offers accessible picnic sites, restrooms, and parking, although the route from the parking lot can be steep. There are also three open, accessible areas at the Campfire Center, which are designated for wheelchair use.
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