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Red Rock Canyon
Overview
Red Rock Canyon State Park offers a striking desert landscape defined by colorful sandstone cliffs and deep canyons. Located within the western edge of the Mojave Desert, the Ricardo Campground provides a unique opportunity to stay directly beneath spectacular rock formations. This park is famous for its cinematic history and its geological significance, serving as a quiet retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the California desert. It is a primitive camping experience that prioritizes nature over modern luxuries.
Location & Surroundings
Situated off Highway 14, the park is approximately 25 miles north of Mojave, CA. The surroundings are characterized by the El Paso Mountains and vast desert vistas. Travelers will find themselves surrounded by vivid red, pink, and white rock layers that change hue depending on the position of the sun. The area is relatively remote, meaning campers can enjoy incredible dark skies and a profound sense of solitude away from the noise of major urban centers.
Amenities & Park Features
As a rustic destination, the park features 50 primitive campsites at Ricardo Campground. RV travelers should note there are no hookups available, so being self-contained is essential. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring, with potable water stations and pit toilets located conveniently throughout the loop. While there are no dump stations or showers on-site, the park offers a peaceful atmosphere. Most sites accommodate rigs up to 30 feet in length, making it a cozy fit for smaller trailers and campers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The park is a haven for hikers and photographers, with popular routes like the Hagen Canyon Trail and Red Cliffs Trail offering close-up views of the eroded layers. Geocaching and wildlife viewing are also popular, with chances to spot roadrunners or the elusive desert tortoise. For a short day trip, the Desert Tortoise Natural Area is nearby, or you can explore the unique aviation history at the Mojave Air and Space Port located just a short drive south.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for adventurous RVers who enjoy dry camping and off-the-grid experiences. Because of the size constraints, it is best suited for small to mid-sized rigs rather than massive motorhomes. It is a perfect choice for nature photographers and stargazers who want to witness the desert's changing colors and clear night vistas. If you prefer quiet evenings under the stars over resort-style activities, this Mojave gem is a must-visit destination.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Marie Contreras
Red Rock or Hagen Canyon has so much to offer go camping under the stars as there are different trails leading to walk in only campsites hiking trails that lead to beautiful views take your doggie plenty of places to let them roam freely dirt bike and or off road in your Rubicon
3dogs1monkey
On Memorial weekend, we're decided to explore California sceneries, took a long drive from Fremont to Red Rock Canyon State Park. The Red Cliffs Nature Trail and the Hagen Nature Trail. These sceneries were so beautiful. We visited in the afternoon and in the morning to see with both morning light and afternoon light. They're both wonderful to see. From the Bay, Apple Car Play took us on 101 instead of 5. It was hot but not too bad. We booked a place to stay in Mojave CA-56 and Highway 14, it's only 24 miles to the trails. We started at 11AM and got to the trails at 5PM. Red Cliffs Nature Trail: It's the first one on the right from highway 14 north and it's so windy in the evening, the wind practically blew us away, the rocks formations are so unique, the color was so beautiful, we keep looking at all the rocks and mountains. Hagen Nature Trail: as soon as we drive out to HWY14, the trail is on the other side, we need to turn left to park. The rock formations over here are different. From here, we can drive to Ricardo Camp Ground, but we didn't stay. California is beautiful and we will try to see all the nature beauties that it has. Next stop, Sequoia Grizzly Falls.
Amanda Labrada
These views are UNREAL!😍 Went with my family to explore and we deff did not leave disappointed! Such an amazing experience to be able to see this up close💯 We will never forget this trip and pics/videos could never do it justice!
Marie Contreras
Rock Rock or Hagen Canyon has so much to offer go camping under the stars as there are different trails leading to walk in only campsites hiking trails that lead to beautiful views take your doggie plenty of places to let them roam freely dirt bike and or off road in your Rubicon
Sam Truong
Love the beautiful colors of these rocks! Very impressed with what Mother Nature has created over time. Well worth the stop if you're ever passing through.