Edwards AFB FamCamp

For our valued service members, retirees, and authorized Department of Defense (DoD) personnel here in California, finding a comfortable and convenient place to camp is a well-deserved perk. Edwards AFB FamCamp, located at Edwards Air Force Base, aims to provide just that – a functional and accessible camping option in the unique landscape of the Mojave Desert. While the experience at military FamCamps can vary, Edwards AFB FamCamp offers essential services and is continuously working to improve its facilities, making it a viable consideration for those authorized to use it.

It's important to approach any FamCamp with the understanding that they are primarily designed to support military personnel and their families, often within the operational environment of a military installation. Edwards AFB FamCamp is no exception. It serves as a practical solution for both short-term stays, perhaps for those passing through or on temporary duty, and potentially longer-term arrangements for those needing a more extended base in the area. The focus here is on providing fundamental camping infrastructure, complemented by the resources available on a large Air Force Base. Recent developments indicate that the FamCamp has been undergoing significant renovations, promising an improved experience for future visitors.

Edwards AFB FamCamp is situated at Edwards, CA 93523, USA, placing it within the vast expanse of Edwards Air Force Base. This location in the western portion of the Mojave Desert, approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, offers a unique high desert camping experience. Access to the FamCamp requires entry onto Edwards Air Force Base, meaning only authorized personnel (active duty, retired military, reservists, National Guard, DoD and NAF employees, base-assigned contractors, and certain veterans like Purple Heart recipients and former POWs, among others) are permitted to stay.

While the exact entrance for the Outdoor Recreation (OR) office, where check-ins are handled, might require careful navigation due to potentially unclear signage and parking not always conducive for trailers, the base itself is designed for functionality. It's several miles off major highways like CA-58, necessitating a dedicated drive to reach the campground. However, once on base, campers benefit from the security and amenities provided by the installation. Proximity to base facilities such as the Commissary, Exchange, and various dining options (Burger King, Panda Express, Subway, Dominos, Starbucks) means that campers have convenient access to groceries, supplies, and quick meals without leaving the secure perimeter of the base. For those arriving from the Rosamond direction, it's advised to be mindful of underpasses that might be lower than anticipated for tall Class A RVs.

Edwards AFB FamCamp offers a range of services tailored to RVers and campers, with a clear focus on utility and convenience.

Services Offered:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The FamCamp provides 20 dedicated full hookup RV sites, offering water, sewer, and both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical connections. These sites are essential for comfortable extended stays.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for guests to responsibly dispose of their wastewater. The use of the dump station for non-guests may incur a $5 fee.
• Restrooms and Showers: Access to communal restrooms and showers is provided, allowing campers to refresh during their stay. While past reviews have sometimes noted cleanliness issues, ongoing renovations aim to address such concerns.
• Laundry Facilities: Free laundry facilities are a significant amenity, particularly beneficial for long-term campers.
• Dry Camping/Overflow Area: For those who prefer a more primitive experience or when full hookup sites are occupied, the FamCamp offers an overflow gravel lot for dry camping (no hookups). This area often provides a more open, parking-lot style setup.
• Picnic Areas: Shaded picnic areas are available for outdoor dining and relaxation.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The FamCamp welcomes pets, with specific rules regarding leash use, waste disposal, and not leaving pets unattended.
• Wi-Fi Access: High-speed Wi-Fi is generally available, though connection quality can vary.
• Propane Sales: Propane is available for purchase on base, ensuring campers can easily refill their tanks.
• After-Hours Check-in: For late arrivals, a self-check-in process is available using registration forms and a drop box for payment, with full registration completed during business hours.

Edwards AFB FamCamp has several features and highlights that contribute to its overall utility and appeal for its target audience, especially considering its ongoing improvements.

Features / Highlights:

• Strategic Military Base Location: Being on an active Air Force Base provides inherent security and access to a wide array of base facilities, including the Commissary, Exchange, gas stations, and various dining options.
• No Reservations Policy (First Come, First Served): Many reviews indicate that the FamCamp operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its full hookup sites, allowing for spontaneous arrivals, although some sources mention reservations up to 90 days in advance for active duty and 60 days for others. It's crucial to confirm current reservation policies with Outdoor Recreation.
• Ongoing Renovations: The FamCamp has been undergoing a "pad and renovation project," with expected completion in Spring 2024. This significant investment aims to enhance the quality and appeal of the sites and facilities, promising a better experience for future visitors.
• Access to Outdoor Recreation Programs: The Edwards AFB Outdoor Recreation office offers a wide range of activities and equipment rentals, from camping gear and bikes to more adventurous trips like snorkeling, kayaking, and ski trips. They also manage a rock climbing wall and provide access to on-base biking trails.
• On-Base Recreational Facilities: Campers can utilize other base amenities such as the Oasis Aquatic Center (pool), a bowling alley with a snack bar, and a mini-mart, all within walking distance or a short drive.
• Proximity to Desert Attractions: Located in the Mojave Desert, the FamCamp offers opportunities to explore the unique desert landscape. While not within walking distance, nearby natural resources include the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and the vast Rogers Dry Lake Bed.
• Flexible Stay Lengths: While there are many "full-timers" and a significant number of long-term residents, the FamCamp officially has a maximum stay limit of 180 days in a calendar year for full hookup sites and 14 days for tent sites, with required vacate periods.

Contact Information:

Address: Edwards, CA 93523, USA (The Outdoor Recreation office where FamCamp is managed is at 205 W. Popson Ave, Bldg. 2500, Edwards AFB, CA 93523)

Phone: (661) 275-2267 (Often referred to as 661-275-CAMP)

Mobile Phone: +1 661-275-2267

For our California locals who are part of the military community, Edwards AFB FamCamp offers a practical and evolving camping destination. Despite past feedback regarding some facility conditions and potential staff interactions, the ongoing renovations signal a clear commitment to improvement. This makes it an increasingly suitable option for those seeking an affordable and secure place to park their RV, whether for a quick overnight stop or a longer stay. The primary advantage for authorized users is the unparalleled access to base amenities, from discounted groceries at the Commissary to recreational opportunities offered by Outdoor Recreation. While it's located in a desert environment that might not appeal to everyone, its unique setting provides a quiet retreat with the convenience of an established military community. It's a pragmatic choice for active duty members, retirees, and other eligible personnel who prioritize essential services, security, and access to a range of on-base facilities while exploring the vast landscapes of California or transitioning through the region. As with any FamCamp, a little flexibility and understanding of its military nature will go a long way in ensuring a pleasant and productive stay.