Details
Black Canyon Road, Essex, CA, 92332
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 26, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
The Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground is ideal for larger groups. The group site is available to groups of up to 50 people and up to 30 campers at the equestrian site. Reservations are required.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Black Canyon Group and Equestrian Campground is open year-round. Reservations are required.
Weather
At 4,400 feet in elevation, Hole-in-the-Wall is a respite from summer heat at lower elevations. In late summer, strong monsoon storms can drop large amounts of rain and flood low-lying areas, making roads in and out of the campground hazardous. Fall brings cooler temperatures and marks the beginning of hunting season. Winter brings freezing temperatures and occasional snow.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Potable Water
Directions
From Los Angeles, Barstow, and Joshua Tree via Interstate 40: Exit Essex Road and drive north for 10 miles and turn right at the junction to Black Canyon Road. Continue for 10 miles to Hole-in-the-Wall. The roads are paved until the turn-off into the campground. Cell phone service is unreliable. From Death Valley and Las Vegas via Interstate 15: From the Kelbaker Road, Cima Road, or Nipton Road entrances, make your way to Kelso-Cima Road and turn east onto Cedar Canyon Road. Continue onto Cedar Canyon Roa
Rates & Fees
Black Canyon Equestrian and Group Campground
Nightly rates will be $50 beginning January 1, 2025.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are limited to provided fire rings. Campers must bring their own wood. Wood cannot be collected in the Preserve.Regulations Overview
The Superintendent's Compendium is a compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions made by the superintendent, in addition to what is contained in Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7 and 34), and other applicable federal statutes and regulations. Groups of 25 or more people and/or 7 or more vehicles are required to obtain a special use permit to visit any parts of the preserve beyond 1 mile of the Group Campground.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Campground is unpaved, consisting of hard-packed dirt and gravel. The group campground covered pavilion is raised and does not have a ramp. The nearest wheelchair-accessible restroom is at Hole-in-the-Wall Visitor Center.
Internet Information
Public Wi-Fi is available 24/7 at the Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center 1 mile away.
Cell Phone Information
Cell phone reception is unreliable.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
RVs and trailers are permitted. Vehicles cannot block roads, trample vegetation, or enlarge the existing footprint of the site.
RV Maximum Length
40
Trailer Maximum Length
40
ADA Information
There are no designated ADA campsites.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - All vehicles OK in good weather
Classifications
Limited Development Campground
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