Clark Mountain Campground – Mojave Desert
Clark Mountain Campground is a primitive camping site located on the southern end of the Clark Mountain Range in southeastern California.
Accessible only with four-wheel drive vehicles, the campground offers dispersed tent camping in a remote desert environment. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables and stunning scenic views, but there are no bathroom facilities or potable water on site.
Campground Details
| Site types | Tent (4WD access only) |
| Amenities | Picnic tables |
| Information number | 760-326-7000 |
| BLM_CA_Web_NE@blm.gov | |
| Reservations | No |
| Campground address | Clark Mountain Road, San Bernardino County, CA |
| Campground GPS | 35.515805, -115.57818 |
| Location | Clark Mountain Range, Mojave Desert |
| Season | Year-round |
Getting to Clark Mountain Campground
From Needles, CA, take I-40 west approx. 10 miles to the U.S. Highway 95 north exit. Exit north and take U.S. Highway 95 approx. 45 miles to NV State Route 164 (Searchlight, NV). Turn left on SR 164 and drive approx. 20 miles to the CA/NV state line. The road turns into Nipton Road. Drive on Nipton Road approx. 15 miles to I-15. Take I-15 west approx. 6 miles to Bailey Road. Turn right at the Bailey Road entrance and then take your first left onto Clark Mountain Road. Follow Clark Mountain Road approx. 5 miles to the site.
Campground Overview
Nestled in the striking desert landscape of the Clark Mountain Range, this primitive campground offers a peaceful escape into nature. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and lies within the Clark Mountain Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC), emphasizing its ecological and historical significance.
Visitors to the campground can enjoy scenic vistas, fascinating desert flora, and a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species. However, be cautious of rattlesnakes, as they are common in remote desert areas.
The Clark Mountain Range itself offers unique ecological and geological features. At its highest peak, Clark Mountain rises to 7,929 feet, creating a “sky island” of cooler temperatures and rare vegetation, including pinyon pine, juniper, and a small forest of white fir trees on its northern crest. This diverse habitat makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
While camping, visitors can explore the nearby Clark Mountain hiking trail, which offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s rich history, including its use by Native Americans and later for mining mineral deposits. The rugged terrain and dramatic color contrasts of the area provide an unforgettable backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Clark Mountain Campground is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and adventure in the Mojave Desert. With no amenities like running water or restrooms, campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies for a safe and enjoyable experience.
