Providence Mountains State Recreation Campground
4.3816 reviewsProvidence Mountains State Recreation Area, PO Box #1, Essex, CA 92332
Providence Mountains State Recreation Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
The standard campsite fee is $20 per night. An additional vehicle fee of $10 per night applies. Reservations are required and must be made through ReserveCalifornia.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged Providence Mountains, this intimate campground offers just five developed sites for those seeking solitude in one of California's most spectacular desert landscapes. Here, where the silence is broken only by desert winds and distant coyote calls, you'll discover a camping experience that feels worlds away from civilization, yet rewards visitors with some of the Mojave's most stunning vistas.
Providence Mountains State Recreation Campground has five developed campsites, offering opportunities for tent camping. RV camping is not recommended due to the narrow, winding roads leading to the park.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains hold stories stretching back millennia, from the Chemehuevi people who first called this land home to the prospectors who arrived in the 1800s seeking fortune in silver and gold. The crown jewel of human history here is Mitchell Caverns, where nature and culture intertwine in limestone chambers that have sheltered and inspired visitors for generations. Mining relics scattered across the landscape serve as weathered monuments to dreams of desert riches.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints the Providence Mountains in different colors and moods. Spring and fall are the golden months, with comfortable days in the 70s and 80s perfect for exploration. Summer transforms the landscape into a shimmering wonderland where temperatures can soar past 100°F, making early morning and evening adventures essential. Winter brings its own magic, with crisp air and occasional dustings of snow that transform the desert peaks into an unexpected alpine scene.
ElevationPerched at 4,300 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot where desert meets sky. This elevation gifts campers with temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler than the scorching valley floors below, creating a high-desert oasis where nights bring welcome relief and mornings dawn crisp and clear.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite at 4,300 feet, the Mojave Desert unfolds in a panorama of ancient limestone cliffs and volcanic peaks that pierce the desert sky. Fountain Peak and Edgar Peak stand as sentinels over a landscape dotted with the twisted forms of Joshua trees, the golden spines of barrel cacti, and the architectural beauty of cholla gardens. The interplay of light and shadow across these geological wonders creates an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionRising from the eastern Mojave Desert like an island of stone, the Providence Mountains showcase 500 million years of Earth's history written in limestone and volcanic rock. This geological wonderland, cradled within the vast Mojave National Preserve, tells the story of ancient seas, fiery eruptions, and the patient work of wind and water. The Paleozoic limestone formations create a dramatic backdrop for camping, while the volcanic peaks of Fountain and Edgar stand as monuments to the region's tumultuous past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible restroom located at the west end of the campground serves the visitor center and includes a drinking fountain and telephone. Parking and the path of travel from the lower parking lot to the visitor center are accessible.
Sites SizeSites range from 25 to 31 feet in pad length. Tent pad measurements are 6x6 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy and shade, with wind exposure being a notable concern.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites #1 or #2 if accessibility is a priority. Bring wind-resistant tents due to high winds common in the area.
Best CampsitesCampsites #1 and #2 are noted for being accessible in fair weather.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 2 nights per weekend.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of 8 people are permitted per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a small loop layout with five developed campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from September through June, Friday to Sunday, and Holiday Mondays. Closed July-August, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through ReserveCalifornia.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is by reservation only; no walk-up sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are subject to ReserveCalifornia terms. Contact the platform for specific rules.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities focus on hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park’s historical features, such as Mitchell Caverns. There are trails for varying skill levels and opportunities to observe unique desert ecosystems and views.
Hiking
Three trails available: Cave Trail (1.5-mile roundtrip hike to/from Mitchell Caverns), Mary Beal Nature Trail (half-mile moderate self-guided walk showcasing desert plants), and Niña Mora Trail (half-mile moderate trail leading to grave marker and desert views).Wildlife viewing
"Wildlife includes bighorn sheep, mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, badgers, lizards, snakes, and Migratory birds." Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals.Cultural and Educational Programs
Guided tours of Mitchell Caverns offer insights into its geological history and cultural significance. The visitor center features interpretive exhibits and a small museum.Winter Activities
Visitors can encounter snow during winter months, and hiking trails remain an option for outdoor exploration.Water Sports
Water sports are not offered at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings but may be prohibited during high winds.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include venomous rattlesnakes, extreme weather fluctuations, and spiny desert plants like cholla and cactus. Visitors should be cautious of high winds, which can damage tents.
Active alertsSeasonal closures from July to August. Potential fire bans during high winds; confirm with park rangers.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.4 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
The nearest hospital and emergency services are in Needles, CA, 56 miles away. The park recommends visitors bring a well-stocked first aid kit due to the remote location.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe most popular months are October-November and February-April due to favorable weather conditions.
Trash and recycling"There is no trash service at the park. Pack it in and pack it out." Campers must handle their own waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are nearby; visitors are required to bring their own water supply.
Common complaintsVisitors frequently mention the poor condition of Essex Road leading to the park, lack of water, and the isolated location requiring extensive preparation.
HostNo information available about campground hosts.
Campground Map
Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, PO Box #1, Essex, CA 92332
Driving directionsThe campground is accessible only from Essex Road. Take Exit 100 (Essex Road) from Interstate 40, then follow Essex Road 16 miles northwest to the park. Avoid relying on navigational systems as these may direct you down hazardous routes. Keep to paved roads for safety.
The campground is accessible by paved roads via Essex Road. Be aware that the road has numerous potholes, and high clearance vehicles are recommended. Navigation apps like Google Maps are unreliable in this area, and Black Canyon Road is mostly dirt and not ideal for passenger vehicles.Nearby places
Essex: 16 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Needles: 56 miles (approximately 1 hour)
Barstow: 116 miles (approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
The nearest fuel station is in Fenner, 24 miles away. There are no stores or food services at the park. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
16 reviews
Providence Mountains State Recreation Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors praise the park for its unique geological formations, remote desert landscapes, and cultural history. Mitchell Caverns tours are a highlight, described as a must-see attraction.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
"Tour guide Will was personable and humorous." "Spectacular views of the desert." "The caverns maintain a constant 65-degree temperature." Visitors appreciate the informative guided tours, accessible...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Spotty or nonexistent cell service." "High winds prone to damaging tents." "No local amenities within miles." Visitors mentioned the need for preparation due to the park's isolation and limited...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Pack plenty of water." "Make reservations for Mitchell Caverns tours well in advance." "Dress in layers for extreme weather shifts." Visitors recommend arriving early to secure reservations and...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons, offering moderate temperatures (70s and 80s). Winter visitors should prepare for potential snow and cold conditions, while summer access is closed...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"A little known, hidden gem in the middle of nowhere, this 2-hour tour is very much worth the visit." "The history you learn about the Mitchell Caverns is incredibly interesting." "You must visit...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 and #2 are noted as accessible in fair weather conditions. Reviews suggest avoiding RVs due to road constraints and high winds.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible restroom and visitor center praised for their functionality. Cavern tours noted as requiring assistance for uneven terrain, with videos available for those unable to hike.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in specific areas: grounds, parking lot, and picnic area. "Pets not allowed on trails or in visitor center." Campers appreciate clear regulations but caution that pets cannot be left...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025