Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground
4.5543 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Barstow Field Office, 2601 Barstow Rd., Barstow, CA 92311, USA
Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground
$6.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$6.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A $6 fee is charged per night for camping. This is a first-come, first-served campground with no additional reservation fees. Payment must be made in cash using onsite self-pay kiosks, so exact change is recommended. Fee envelopes may not always be available.
About this campground
Nestled within the otherworldly Rainbow Basin Natural Area, Owl Canyon Campground beckons adventurers with 22 intimate campsites scattered beneath ancient rock formations. This first-come, first-served desert oasis rewards early arrivals with sites featuring welcoming picnic tables, crackling fire rings, and protective shade structures that offer respite from the Mojave sun. While vault toilets provide modern convenience and water arrives weekly by truck, savvy campers pack extra supplies to ensure uninterrupted exploration. Budget-conscious travelers and geology enthusiasts alike find themselves drawn to this affordable gateway to one of California's most spectacular geological theaters, where rainbow-hued cliffs and sculpted badlands create an ever-changing canvas of natural art.
Owl Canyon Campground offers primitive camping facilities suitable for tent camping and RVs. The campground lacks hookups and modern amenities, emphasizing a rustic outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceBeneath the colorful layers of rock at Owl Canyon lies a prehistoric treasure trove that has captivated paleontologists for decades. These ancient sediments preserve fossils from creatures that roamed this region millions of years ago, when the landscape looked vastly different from today's desert terrain. While the thrill of discovery runs deep here, the BLM protects these scientific treasures through a permit system for fossil collection. Visitors who stumble upon these windows to the past are encouraged to photograph, admire, and report their finds to the BLM Barstow Field Office, helping preserve this irreplaceable record of Earth's history for future generations of scientists and nature enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsThe Mojave Desert's dramatic personality shines through at Owl Canyon, where summer temperatures can soar to a scorching 110°F and sudden storms transform dry washes into rushing torrents. Seasoned visitors have discovered the campground's sweet spots: spring brings wildflower blooms and comfortable days perfect for hiking, while autumn offers crisp mornings and golden afternoon light ideal for photography. These shoulder seasons reveal the desert at its most hospitable, when gentle breezes carry the scent of sage and the extreme temperatures retreat, creating perfect conditions for stargazing and campfire conversations.
ElevationPerched at 3,000 feet above sea level in the heart of the Mojave Desert, Owl Canyon Campground occupies a sweet spot where elevation works its subtle magic. This modest altitude creates a fascinating daily rhythm of temperatures that can swing 30 degrees or more between blazing afternoons and surprisingly cool nights. Desert veterans know to pack layers for this elevation dance, where afternoon tank tops give way to evening fleeces and sleeping bags become essential even after the warmest days. The thin, dry air at this height also creates spectacular conditions for stargazing, with the Milky Way stretching across the darkness in brilliant clarity.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape that defies earthly expectations at Owl Canyon, where millions of years of geological artistry have painted the rocks in impossible shades of red, green, pink, and white. These rainbow-striped formations rise like ancient castles from the desert floor, their twisted layers telling stories of prehistoric lakes and volcanic eruptions. Photographers find endless inspiration in the interplay of light and shadow across the sculpted badlands, while hikers discover hidden canyons and secret washes that reveal new wonders around every bend. Keep watch for the desert's gentle residents—endangered desert tortoises that navigate this terrain with ancient wisdom, and fossils that peek from eroded hillsides like nature's own museum exhibits.
Geological RegionThe Rainbow Basin Natural Area stands as one of California's most remarkable geological showcases, earning its designation as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern for good reason. This natural amphitheater of multicolored rock walls and weathered mesas represents 15 million years of Earth's biography written in stone. Ancient lake beds, volcanic ash deposits, and sedimentary layers have been tilted, folded, and carved by time into a maze of hills, canyons, and washes that challenge hikers and delight geologists. Each striation tells a chapter in the story of climate change, tectonic shifts, and the evolution of life itself, making every camping trip here a journey through deep time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative or user-provided information.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally large and well-placed, accommodating various sizes of vehicles, including trailers and RVs up to 30 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as spacious and well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy even when the campground is full.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure a preferred site. Avoid sites in low-lying areas during the rainy season due to flood risk. Sites further from the vault toilets may offer more privacy.
Best CampsitesSites near the trailhead (e.g., Site 24) are recommended for their proximity to trails and solar optimization.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specified check-in time.
Check-out
No specified check-out time.
Stay Limit
No specific maximum stay limit outlined.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No information available on the number of guests per site.
Groups
No specific group camping information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with 22 individual sites. Each site includes a covered picnic table, fire ring, and BBQ grill.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground appears to be open year-round, though extreme weather may affect accessibility.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable—reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 22 campsites are available on a walk-up, first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a site, especially during weekends.
Cancellation PolicyAs this is a first-come, first-served campground, no advanced reservations or cancellations apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rainbow Basin Natural Area offers a variety of recreational activities including camping, hiking, photography, sightseeing, and horseback riding. The area features stunning geological formations and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are available, including the scenic washes and the Owl Canyon trail. The trails offer opportunities to explore colorful rock formations and unique desert landscapes. Some trails may merge with other tracks, so it is recommended to download maps before visiting.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is best during early morning and evening hours. The area is home to desert-adapted wildlife, including the desert tortoise. Birds can be observed in the thick vegetation of nearby canyons.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned. The campground may be less crowded during cooler months, making it a peaceful destination for camping and hiking.Water Sports
No water sports are available as there are no water bodies near the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are No officially stated quiet hours, though campers are expected to be considerate of others.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include flash floods, extreme heat, and poisonous snakes. Campers should avoid low-lying areas during storms and carry sufficient water and supplies.
Active alertsNone reported at this time.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 20.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Barstow, 8 miles away, which includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak visiting times are likely in spring and fall due to milder weather.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available throughout the campground, but campers are still encouraged to pack out their trash as part of Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located in a desert region with no nearby natural water bodies.
Common complaintsSome visitors have reported bee infestations, particularly during warmer months. Roads leading to the campground are often described as washboarded and difficult to navigate, especially for larger vehicles.
HostNo campground host information is provided.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Barstow Field Office, 2601 Barstow Rd., Barstow, CA 92311, USA
Driving directionsRainbow Basin Natural Area is located 8 miles north of Barstow, California, off Irwin Road (not Fort Irwin Road). The main access route is Fossil Bed Road.
The campground is accessible primarily via Fossil Bed Road. User reviews report that the road is unpaved and can be washboarded, requiring slow travel speeds of 5-10 mph. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles may be preferable, especially during rainy conditions.Nearby places
Barstow (8 miles, approximately 20 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Barstow, 8 miles away. There are no nearby on-site supply stores.
Camper Reviews
4.6
43 reviews
Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, affordability, and tranquility. Many visitors appreciate the spacious sites and the area's geological features. However, some users note issues such as bees, windy conditions, and rough access roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include the campground's affordability ($6 per night), clean vault toilets, scenic surroundings, and excellent stargazing opportunities. Many reviewers also praise the large,...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough washboard roads leading to the campground, issues with bees swarming around liquids, and limited water availability. Some visitors also mention that the vault...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, as the potable water supply is limited. They also suggest traveling slowly on the access roads to prevent damage to vehicles. Visitors are advised to come...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular year-round, but summer temperatures can reach extreme highs, making early mornings and evenings the best times for outdoor activities. The cooler months offer a more...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great little gem in the desert. $6/night, BBQ, fire ring, table, and shade structure at each site." "I love this campground! Be forewarned, as it can get tent-thrashingly windy at times." "The area...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some users recommend specific areas of the campground for larger RVs, noting that certain sections are better suited for high-clearance vehicles. Campers also mention that sites near the trailhead...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews regarding pet policies or experiences were provided.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025