Rainbow Basin/owl Canyon Campground

About

Rainbow Basin Natural Area showcases dramatic multicolored rock walls, mesas, and fossil-bearing canyons formed over millions of years. Located 8 miles north of Barstow off Irwin Road, this Area of Critical Environmental Concern protects outstanding geological and paleontological features. Owl Canyon Campground provides 22 primitive campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. The Fossil Canyon Loop Road offers an interesting vehicle touring route, though high-clearance or four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for this narrow one-way dirt road. Hiking through the washes reveals the area's natural beauty, with wildlife viewing best during early morning and evening hours. Desert-adapted wildlife including the desert tortoise calls this home. Visitors should be prepared for desert conditions. A single water tap provides potable water brought in weekly by truck, but bringing your own supply is strongly advised. Vault toilets are available but there is no dump station; holding tanks can be emptied in Baker or Barstow. All trash must be packed out. Flash floods, extreme weather, and rattlesnakes are hazards to be aware of.

Directions

Located 8 miles north of Barstow, California, off Irwin Road (not Fort Irwin Road). The main access route is Fossil Bed Road.