Public Campground
1-2 tents
Campo, California
Campground in California.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Hicksons Petroglyphs Recreation Area
Campground in California.
Hicksons Petroglyphs Recreation Area offers a unique camping experience in California's high desert landscape, where history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure converge. Located in a remote and scenic region, this public campground provides an authentic escape for travelers seeking something beyond typical RV park amenities. The area is named for its remarkable petroglyphs, ancient rock art created by indigenous peoples centuries ago, making it a destination with genuine cultural significance and archaeological interest.
The surrounding landscape is characterized by high desert terrain with stunning vistas, dramatic rock formations, and wide open spaces that make you feel truly removed from everyday life. The elevation and location mean crisp, clear nights perfect for stargazing, with minimal light pollution allowing visitors to experience the night sky in all its glory. Sunrise and sunset views across the desert are particularly memorable, painting the landscape in warm hues that change throughout the day.
This area appeals to a diverse range of travelers. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to view and learn about the petroglyphs that give the recreation area its name, gaining insight into the indigenous cultures that inhabited this region long ago. Nature lovers enjoy the high desert ecology, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the chance to experience landscapes that feel timeless and untamed. Photographers find endless inspiration in the rock formations, ancient art, and dramatic lighting conditions the desert provides throughout the day.
The recreation area is ideal for those who want to disconnect and enjoy quieter, more contemplative outdoor experiences. Hikers will appreciate exploring the surrounding terrain, while visitors seeking solitude and peaceful surroundings will find plenty of that here. The remote location means you'll need to be somewhat self-sufficient, making it perfect for experienced RV travelers who are comfortable with less developed facilities and who view that as part of the appeal rather than a drawback.
The surrounding landscape is characterized by high desert terrain with stunning vistas, dramatic rock formations, and wide open spaces that make you feel truly removed from everyday life. The elevation and location mean crisp, clear nights perfect for stargazing, with minimal light pollution allowing visitors to experience the night sky in all its glory. Sunrise and sunset views across the desert are particularly memorable, painting the landscape in warm hues that change throughout the day.
This area appeals to a diverse range of travelers. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to view and learn about the petroglyphs that give the recreation area its name, gaining insight into the indigenous cultures that inhabited this region long ago. Nature lovers enjoy the high desert ecology, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the chance to experience landscapes that feel timeless and untamed. Photographers find endless inspiration in the rock formations, ancient art, and dramatic lighting conditions the desert provides throughout the day.
The recreation area is ideal for those who want to disconnect and enjoy quieter, more contemplative outdoor experiences. Hikers will appreciate exploring the surrounding terrain, while visitors seeking solitude and peaceful surroundings will find plenty of that here. The remote location means you'll need to be somewhat self-sufficient, making it perfect for experienced RV travelers who are comfortable with less developed facilities and who view that as part of the appeal rather than a drawback.
3.9
Rating
19
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
This area is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for the area.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near the park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Hicksons Petroglyphs Recreation Area Reviews
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Cyndi Huffman
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Cyndi Huffman
The petroglyphs were kind of sad and disappointing. And the campground, if you are longer than probably 25 feet don’t bother. We squeaked through with our 30 foot class C. Had to detach our Jeep. It is very overgrown and tight to get through the campgrounds and none of the sites are very long. And the road going back is very washboard and pot holed. But hey I guess it’s free.
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Adventure Awaits
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Adventure Awaits
This is a good place to pull off of highway 50. Clean restrooms at the trailhead. However, there's no water. It's too bad that some people(yes, you Erin!)can't respect the historical and cultural significance of places like this. There's a BLM campground adjacent to the trailhead. It's rather exposed. But you can't beat the $0 dollar price. Th
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Vicki Palmer
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Vicki Palmer
Awesome place to boondock and explore. Several well groomed walking trails. Quiet beautiful area to camp.
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Elody Peigné
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Elody Peigné
I actually think this place is underrated. Yes, the petroglyphs are worn out. But the location is super clean, well equipped and beyond the short loop highlighted by a board at entrance, I'd recommend to take the stroll up at the marker "T" of the short loop. It will bring you to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view. Really worth the walk. The picnic area was also quiet and great for a p... I actually think this place is underrated. Yes, the petroglyphs are worn out. But the location is super clean, well equipped and beyond the short loop highlighted by a board at entrance, I'd recommend to take the stroll up at the marker "T" of the short loop. It will bring you to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view. Really worth the walk. The picnic area was also quiet and great for a pause under the shadow of pine trees. Really worth a stop.
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Elody Peigné
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Elody Peigné
I actually think this place is underrated. Yes, the petroglyphs are worn out. But the location is super clean, well equipped and beyond the short loop highlighted by a board at entrance, I'd recommend to take the stroll up at the marker "T" of the short loop. It will bring you to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view. Really worth the walk. The picnic area was also quiet and great for a p... I actually think this place is underrated. Yes, the petroglyphs are worn out. But the location is super clean, well equipped and beyond the short loop highlighted by a board at entrance, I'd recommend to take the stroll up at the marker "T" of the short loop. It will bring you to the top of the hill for a breathtaking view. Really worth the walk. The picnic area was also quiet and great for a pause under the shadow of pine trees. Really worth a stop.
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Tom Reid
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Tom Reid
The campground looks great. The short trails to overlooks were nice. But the petroglyphs were very disappointing after having seen ones at Valley of Fire and north of Bishop, among others. Not worth the drive off 50 just for the petroglyphs
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Tom Reid
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Tom Reid
The campground looks great. The short trails to overlooks were nice. But the petroglyphs were very disappointing after having seen ones at Valley of Fire and north of Bishop, among others. Not worth the drive off 50 just for the petroglyphs
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