Edwards AFB FamCamp

Edwards AFB FamCamp, located at Edwards, CA 93523, USA, serves as a vital and convenient RV park for authorized users, including Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, Retired Military, 0-100% DAV, Purple Heart Recipients, Former POW, Veteran Caregivers, and DoD civilians. Under the "Camping Near Me" category, it presents a unique offering due to its on-base location, providing a secure and amenity-rich environment that differentiates it from typical public campgrounds. While primarily a functional stopover, the FamCamp offers essential services and access to a wide array of base facilities, making it a practical choice for those with military affiliations.

Edwards AFB FamCamp is situated several miles off Highway (CA-58) within Edwards Air Force Base, nestled in the western portion of the Mojave Desert. This desert environment means visitors should anticipate hot temperatures, especially during summer months, and can experience significant winds. The sites are generally level, contributing to ease of setup for RVs. While the immediate campground environment might be described as "spartan" or "bare rock" in some newer sections, there have been recent efforts towards improvement, including new hookups and gravel placement. The overall appearance is considered acceptable, with some sites featuring asphalt pads and others gravel. The layout is often a loop or circular arrangement, with sites sometimes sharing hookup monuments, which can lead to close quarters with neighbors, especially when slide-outs are extended. Despite being in a remote desert location, it offers the unique experience of being on a major Air Force base, providing the possibility of observing aircraft activities, including the practice flights of the Thunderbirds, for an impromptu airshow. The base itself is quite expansive, requiring a drive to access services, but the FamCamp is generally well-located for on-base amenities. It is described as being in the "middle of nowhere" but also "in the middle of everything" due to its proximity to Southern California attractions within a few hours' drive.

Edwards AFB FamCamp offers 52 spaces, primarily hardstand camper sites with full hookups, including water, 30/50 amp electric, and sewer connections. These sites typically include a picnic table and a grill. There are also overflow dry camping spots (approximately 22) and designated tent sites (around 4), which can be used if the full hookup sites are occupied. The cost for a camper hookup site is reported as $30-$35 per night, with dry camping at a lower rate (e.g., $10-$12). Prices may be higher for DoD civilians compared to military personnel. The FamCamp operates on a first-come, first-served basis, as reservations are generally not accepted, although it's always wise to call in advance, especially if there's a base event. Self-registration is the norm, with forms and a drop box available at the entrance. While there may or may not be a dedicated camp host on-site, the Outdoor Recreation (OR) staff are the primary point of contact during business hours. The FamCamp is equipped with restrooms and showers, and guests have noted free laundry facilities, which is a significant convenience. A dump station is available, sometimes with a small usage fee. Wi-Fi is accessible in the campground, though some users report a weak signal, making the Wi-Fi at the Base Exchange (BX) food court a more reliable option. Cell service (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile) is generally good. Pets are welcome, subject to usual leash and clean-up rules, but must be walked on the outer ring away from the main campground area. It's important to note that construction and renovation projects can impact availability and conditions. A reported "pad and renovation project" was expected to be completed in Spring 2024, closing the FamCamp to new guests during this period. Long-term stays are possible, up to 90 days, followed by a mandatory 14-day absence before returning, though some reviews suggest a prevalence of long-term residents, impacting short-term availability.

A major advantage of staying at Edwards AFB FamCamp is the access to a wide range of on-base facilities and services, which significantly enhance the camping experience:

• Recreation and Fitness: The base offers extensive recreational opportunities, including a golf course (Muroc Lake Golf Course), an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal), a bowling alley (High Desert Lanes Bowling Center), tennis courts, and a 30-foot outdoor rock climbing wall. The Rosburg Fitness Center provides a full gym for workouts, along with facilities like a gymnasium for basketball and volleyball, racquetball courts, saunas, showers, locker rooms, a multipurpose field, softball field, and a 400M rubberized track. There are also outdoor workout areas and running/bike trails. A disc golf course, Mojave Greens Disc Golf Course, is available behind the fitness center. Outdoor Recreation also offers equipment rentals for various activities like camping gear, bikes, and even campers.

• Shopping and Dining: Campers have convenient access to the base Commissary for groceries and the Base Exchange (BX) for general retail. Dining options include various fast-food establishments like Burger King, Panda Express, Subway, and Dominos, as well as the Club Muroc and Sandbagger Grill. There's also a Starbucks and a mini-mart/gas station nearby.

• Community Services: The base provides a library, arts and crafts center, auto hobby shop, and an Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) office for discounted tickets to local attractions. The Military & Family Readiness Center offers support services. For health needs, there's a clinic and pharmacy on base. The base also has a Post Office and a car wash.

• Outdoor Adventures: Beyond the immediate base, Outdoor Recreation facilitates trips and provides resources for activities like surfing, biking, deep sea fishing, whitewater rafting, ziplining, skydiving, bungee jumping, skiing, and rock climbing, leveraging the diverse natural resources of the region, including Sequoia National Forest, Joshua Tree National Park, and the Pacific Ocean. On-base biking trails are also available, and the base is fortunate to be surrounded by abundant natural resources.

• Proximity to Attractions: While Edwards AFB is remote, it serves as a central point for accessing Southern California's major attractions. Los Angeles is about an hour away, offering various urban experiences, concerts, and sports events. Disneyland, Six Flags, and Universal Studios are within reasonable driving distance. Further afield, Las Vegas is about a 3-hour drive, and San Diego is approximately 2.5 hours away. For nature enthusiasts, nearby areas offer opportunities for dirt biking, hiking, and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Local parks like Saddleback Butte State Park and Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area are also accessible.

Edwards AFB FamCamp is an excellent choice for eligible patrons seeking a secure and well-equipped stopover or a base for exploring the high desert region and Southern California. While it may not offer the secluded, natural aesthetic of some wilderness campgrounds, its comprehensive on-base amenities provide significant convenience and comfort. Visitors should be aware of the "first come, first served" policy and consider calling ahead to check availability, especially if arriving during peak seasons or base events. The Outdoor Recreation staff, reachable at (661) 275-2267 or +1 661-275-2267, can provide current information on site availability and any ongoing construction. It's advisable to have cash for self-registration if arriving after hours, as there is a self-registration box at the entrance. Be prepared for desert conditions, including heat and wind, and utilize the on-base services to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Directions to the FamCamp are generally well-marked from the base gate. Despite some past concerns about maintenance or the attitude of some staff members, the FamCamp has undergone renovations and offers a generally clean and functional environment. For authorized users, Edwards AFB FamCamp offers a unique blend of military community and recreational access, providing a practical and often economical "Camping Near Me" option in the heart of the Mojave Desert.

Edwards AFB FamCamp

Edwards, CA 93523, USA