Camping at Ricardo Campground State Park

Location and Contact Information

Ricardo Campground is located within Red Rock Canyon State Park, which is situated in Kern County, California. The park is approximately 120 miles north of Los Angeles along Highway 14. Red Rock Canyon State Park offers dramatic views of the desert cliffs and buttes in a region rich with geological, ecological, and paleontological history.

Contact Information:

• Address: Red Rock Canyon State Park, Cantil, CA 93519
• Phone: Typically, you can reach the park at a contact number provided on California State Parks' official website or through the actual park's direct phone line if listed.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations:

• It is recommended to book your campsite in advance, particularly if you plan to camp on weekends or during peak season. Reservations can usually be made online through the official California state parks reservation system or a designated reservation platform.

Fees:

• Camping fees vary depending on the time of year, type of campsite, and other factors. Day use fees may also apply for visitors who are not camping overnight.

Camping Facilities

Campsites:

• Ricardo Campground offers a number of sites suitable for tent camping and RVs. However, there are limits to the length of RVs that the campground can accommodate.
• Each campsite typically includes a table and a fire ring.
• Water is available, but there are limitations during certain times of the year due to conservation measures.

Amenities:

• Campground facilities often include restrooms and potable water. However, showers and electric hookups are usually not provided.
• A visitor center may be present within the park which can offer educational information and resources about the park’s natural features.

Accessibility:

• Some campsites might be designed to be accessible to visitors with disabilities.

Recreational Activities

Hiking:

• Red Rock Canyon offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Each trail provides opportunities to experience the park’s unique geology and landscape.

Wildlife Viewing:

• The park is home to diverse wildlife, and birdwatching is a popular activity.

Photography:

• The colorful rock formations and desert landscapes afford excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Stargazing:

• Due to the park’s remote location, light pollution is minimal, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.

Rules and Regulations

Campfire Restriction:

• Campfires may be restricted or prohibited during periods of high fire danger. Usage of fire rings is typically subject to state park regulations.

Pets:

• Pets are usually allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash and supervised. There might be restrictions on pets on trails and in certain areas of the park.

Preservation:

• As with any state park, it is crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Noise:

• There will be quiet hours which guests are expected to follow to maintain a peaceful environment for all campers.

Weather and Climate

• Red Rock Canyon State Park features a desert climate, with hot temperatures in the summer and cold nights in the winter.
• It is advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip and to prepare accordingly with appropriate clothing and gear.

Local Attractions and Amenities

Nearby Attractions:

• Interesting sites might include nearby ghost towns from the gold rush era, the Trona Pinnacles, and other natural attractions.

Amenities:

• Basic supplies and food might be found in small towns situated a short drive from the park.

Before visiting Ricardo Campground in Red Rock Canyon State Park, always check the latest information from the California State Parks official website for updates on conditions, closures, and alerts that may affect your trip.