Sterling Campground
4.689 reviews5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243
Sterling Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Fees for entrance and camping range from $5 for day use per vehicle to $10 for overnight camping. Fees are paid by QR code or app during weekends.
About this campground
Nestled within the adventure-filled Hungry Valley SVRA, Sterling Campground serves as your gateway to an off-road paradise. This well-loved basecamp connects riders and outdoor enthusiasts to an impressive network of 130 miles of OHV trails, making it the perfect launching point for dusty adventures and memorable expeditions through California's rugged backcountry.
Sterling Campground primarily caters to primitive campers and off-road enthusiasts. It is popular among ATV and dirt bike riders, offering a convenient base for exploring Hungry Valley SVRA's network of trails.
Historical SignificanceSterling Campground sits on land steeped in California's rich heritage. The surrounding Tejon Pass once echoed with the sounds of cattle drives and homesteaders carving out lives in this rugged terrain. Today, the area preserves this legacy through two cultural preserves within the burn area, offering glimpses into the ranching and pioneering spirit that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high desert at Sterling Campground. Winter occasionally blankets the landscape in snow, transforming trails into a winter wonderland. Summer brings intense desert heat with temperatures soaring to 100°F, creating challenging but exhilarating riding conditions. For the most comfortable camping experience, visit during spring and fall when gentle temperatures and occasional refreshing rains create ideal outdoor conditions.
ElevationPerched between 3,000 and 6,000 feet, Sterling Campground offers a true mountain desert experience. The dramatic elevation changes create diverse microclimates throughout the camping area, with higher elevations occasionally receiving dustings of snow during winter months, while lower areas maintain more moderate desert conditions year-round.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the dramatic backdrop of Tejon Pass, Sterling Campground transforms with the seasons. Spring brings one of nature's most spectacular shows as hillsides burst with vibrant California Poppies and purple Lupines, creating a photographer's dream. The montane desert ecosystem supports a fascinating array of hardy flora and fauna, from resilient desert shrubs to wildlife adapted to this unique high-desert environment.
Geological RegionSterling Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads within Tejon Pass, where elevations sweep from 3,000 to 6,000 feet. This montane desert landscape showcases nature's architectural prowess through varied terrain that includes rocky outcroppings, rolling hills, and dramatic canyon systems. The diverse topography creates a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts while offering stunning vistas at every turn.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details about accessibility features are provided.
Sites SizeThe size of campsites is not detailed in the available materials.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the campsites is not detailed, but user hints suggest it's a basic layout without significant seclusion.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSterling is suggested for its central location and access to trails.
Best CampsitesSterling Campground is centrally located but lacks premium amenities or standout sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 AM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping currently closed until early 2025.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits unspecified.
Groups
User reviews mention a separate, rentable group campground across the road with its own amenities, but specific details about Sterling Campground's group camping options are absent.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSterling Campground features a centralized layout, surrounded by trails and accessible via main roads.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping closed indefinitely due to Post Fire; expected reopening in early 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via LAZ Parking app or website.
Walk-in AvailabilityDay-use entry is first-come, first-serve, except weekends when reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellations or refunds for reservations made through LAZ Parking systems.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sterling Campground provides access to various recreational opportunities primarily focused on off-road vehicle activities. It is ideal for ATV riders, motorcyclists, and those operating ROVs. Trails are well-marked, and the terrain caters to a range of skill levels.
Winter Activities
Winter camping may be less favorable due to freezing nighttime temperatures and occasional snowfalls.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable for this region.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are provided but restrictions may apply during fire season.
Hazards
General hazardsIncludes rattlesnakes, extreme temperatures, dust storms, and erosion risks. Warning signs are posted on trails.
Active alertsCamping closed due to Post Fire. Limited entry and reservations required for day-use.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 14.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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 hospital is Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, approx. 30 miles south in Valencia. Dial 911 for emergencies, though cellular coverage is intermittent.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall identified as ideal seasons for OHV activities due to mild temperatures.
Trash and recyclingA superintendent's order prohibits moving or removing trash receptacles. Trash handling is regulated, but specifics like recycling options or locations are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features nearby; area is dry most of the year.
Common complaintsOvercrowded and inconsiderate riders noted by campers. Trails and fire pits sometimes criticized.
Campground Map
5301 Ralphs Ranch Road, Gorman, CA 93243
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5, take the Gorman exit. Drive to the McDonald's and make a right on Ralph's Ranch Road. Drive 1 mile and turn left at the Hungry Valley SVRA sign on Gold Hill Road. Follow signs and drive 2.5 miles to Sterling Campground.
Accessed from Ralphs Ranch Road off Interstate 5, roads are paved but subject to closures due to fires or adverse weather. Watch for signage detailing closures or hazards.Nearby places
Santa Clarita (30 miles, approx. 35 minutes), Bakersfield (48 miles, approx. 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Payphones, basic supplies, and entrance staff available at Gorman. Fuel and groceries available in nearby towns like Lebec and Santa Clarita.
Camper Reviews
4.7
9 reviews
Sterling Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the site's appeal for off-road enthusiasts but note its basic facilities like limited water availability and mixed toilet cleanliness. The campground is described as overcrowded and noisy at times due to off-road activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the proximity to trails and affordability. One review specifically praises the well-maintained trails and organization, stating, 'Very well maintained, well organized trails. And 10...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include overcrowding, lack of water, and inconsiderate visitors. Another review states, 'Overcrowded, too many rules. Lame fire pits. Inconsiderate riders and campers. Trails...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend bringing your own water and toilet paper for convenience. They also suggest visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds, as one user notes, 'Weekdays are the best time to go with the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer camping may be challenging due to dusty conditions and high temperatures. Spring and fall are considered the best seasons with mild weather and occasional rain improving trail conditions.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It's Gorman. One of the last legal off-road paradise left in Southern California.' 2. 'Perfect for day use but horrible for RVs.. the ground is very uneven.' 3. 'Great place to ride ATVs, dirt...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sterling Campground is described as basic compared to other rentable group campsites in Hungry Valley SVRA. No specific numerical site reviews are available.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility issues are not addressed in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not address pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025