Edwards AFB FamCamp

For our valued military community here in California – active duty, reservists, retirees, and authorized DoD ID cardholders – Edwards AFB FamCamp provides a dedicated space to relax and reconnect in the unique landscape of the Mojave Desert. While civilian campgrounds offer a general public experience, FamCamps are designed specifically with military families in mind, providing a sense of community and access to base amenities. Located on Edwards Air Force Base, this FamCamp serves as a practical and often economical option for those eligible to enjoy a high desert getaway. It's a place where service and family can intersect, offering a convenient base for exploring both the base facilities and the surrounding Southern California attractions.

Edwards AFB FamCamp aims to provide a functional and accessible camping experience. While recent reviews highlight areas that were undergoing improvements or experiencing challenges, it's important to understand the context of a military installation campground. These facilities are continuously evolving, and the base leadership has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its personnel, including improvements to the FamCamp. This article will provide an overview of Edwards AFB FamCamp, detailing its location, available services, notable features, and why it remains a relevant option for eligible Californians looking for a military-exclusive camping spot.

Edwards AFB FamCamp is located directly on Edwards Air Force Base in Edwards, CA 93523, USA. This placement means that access is restricted to authorized personnel with valid DoD ID cards, including active duty, retired military, reservists, National Guardsmen, 100% DAV, DoD civilians, and base-assigned contractors. This exclusivity provides a secure and familiar environment for military families.

The base is situated in the western portion of the Mojave Desert, approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. While off the main urban grid, accessibility is good via major California highways. For those traveling from Southern California, the primary route will involve connecting to California State Route 58, which passes directly by Edwards Air Force Base. Visitors should be aware that entering a military installation requires specific procedures, including presenting proper identification at the gate. While the FamCamp itself is within the base, previous reviews have noted that the Outdoor Recreation (OR) office, where check-in occurs, may not be immediately obvious or conducive for trailer parking, suggesting careful navigation upon arrival.

Despite its seemingly remote desert location, Edwards AFB is a large, self-contained community. This means that once on base, guests have convenient access to various support facilities, which contributes significantly to the overall accessibility and convenience of staying at the FamCamp. The base's location in the high desert also means visitors can experience the unique landscape of the Mojave, with its vast open spaces and clear skies, providing a distinct contrast to California's coastal and mountainous regions.

Edwards AFB FamCamp offers a range of services designed to meet the basic needs of campers within a military installation environment. While some amenities have received mixed reviews, the intent is to provide functional and accessible facilities.

• RV Sites with Full Hookups: The FamCamp features 52 hardstand camper spaces that typically come with full hookups, including water, sewer, and 30/50-amp electric service. These sites are equipped with picnic tables and grills.

• Primitive Tent and Overflow Sites: For those preferring a more traditional or basic camping experience, the FamCamp also offers primitive tent sites and gravel overflow lots. These sites generally do not include hookups, providing a more "dry camping" or boondocking experience, as noted in reviews.

• Restrooms and Showers: Communal restroom and shower facilities are available for guest use. While some past reviews have pointed to cleanliness issues or maintenance needs, these facilities are a core service for campers.

• Free Laundry Facilities: A laundry room is provided for guests, though a previous review mentioned machines appearing older and the area being dirty. This service offers convenience for longer stays.

• Common Area/Lounge: A designated common area or lounge is available, providing a space for guests to relax indoors, potentially with access to Wi-Fi.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available on-site for RVs, with a reported $5 usage fee, catering to both full hookup and dry camping users.

• Picnic Pavilions: Pavilions with picnic tables are provided, offering shaded areas for outdoor dining and group gatherings.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: The FamCamp generally welcomes pets, making it a viable option for military families traveling with their furry companions.

• Proximity to Base Amenities: A significant service is the easy access to various on-base facilities, including the Commissary (grocery store), Exchange (department store), mini-mart, gas station, several fast-food options (Burger King, Panda Express, Subway, Dominos, Starbucks), a bowling alley, and potentially other recreational facilities like an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal) and fitness center.

The primary highlights of Edwards AFB FamCamp revolve around its unique setting on a military base and the opportunities it provides for authorized patrons.

• Military-Exclusive Access: This is perhaps the most defining feature. Being restricted to DoD ID cardholders ensures a secure and community-oriented environment, often appreciated by service members and their families who value the camaraderie and safety of a base setting.

• Convenient On-Base Amenities: The ability to walk or take a short drive to essential facilities like the Commissary, Exchange, and various dining options is a major convenience. This can significantly reduce the need to leave the base for supplies, simplifying the camping experience.

• Proximity to Edwards AFB Operations: For aviation enthusiasts or those interested in aerospace, being on Edwards AFB means being close to a hub of aerospace research and development. While direct access to all areas may be restricted, the sheer presence on the base can be a unique experience.

• Mojave Desert Environment: The campground offers a distinct desert camping experience. While reviews indicate the landscape may need some care, it provides opportunities to witness desert flora and fauna, and perhaps most notably, offers vast, open skies for stargazing, away from significant light pollution.

• Potential for Base Recreation: The Outdoor Recreation (OR) department at Edwards AFB offers various activities and equipment rentals beyond just the FamCamp, including scuba lessons, ski trips, hiking, fishing excursions, a rock climbing wall, and potentially more. These can enhance a longer stay at the FamCamp, though specific availability should be confirmed with OR.

• Ongoing Improvements (as of late 2023/early 2024): It's important to note that the FamCamp was reportedly undergoing significant construction and renovation projects, including new RV slots, with completion scheduled for early 2024. This indicates a commitment to improving the facilities, which could lead to a better experience for future visitors compared to some past reviews.

• Long-Term Stay Options: Uniquely for a FamCamp, Edwards AFB has allowed for long-term residence due to housing shortages, making it a potential semi-permanent option for those in need, though this also contributes to the "full-timer" presence noted in some reviews.

To connect with Edwards AFB FamCamp and for all inquiries regarding reservations, availability, and specific regulations, please use the following contact information. Keep in mind that direct interaction often happens through the Outdoor Recreation (OR) office on base, which manages the FamCamp.

Address:

Edwards, CA 93523, USA

(While this is the postal address for the base, the FamCamp is managed by the Outdoor Recreation office within the base.)

Phone:

(661) 275-2267

Mobile Phone:

+1 661-275-2267

It is highly advisable to call ahead to the Outdoor Recreation office using these numbers, especially before visiting, to confirm current operational status, site availability, any ongoing construction, and specific check-in procedures. Due to its nature as a military facility, it does not accept reservations far in advance (though some sites mention first-come, first-served or up to 90 days for campers) and priority for certain amenities or spots may apply. Checking the official Edwards Air Force Base Force Support Squadron (FSS) website, specifically the Outdoor Recreation section, is also recommended for the most up-to-date information, hours of operation, and any new policies.

For Californians who are part of the authorized military community, Edwards AFB FamCamp offers a unique and practical camping solution. It provides a familiar and secure environment within a military installation, which can be a significant comfort for those accustomed to base life. While it may not offer the resort-style amenities of some commercial RV parks, its value lies in its specific focus on serving service members and their families.

The ability to access on-base facilities like the Commissary and Exchange, coupled with the security of being within the base perimeter, makes it a convenient and often cost-effective choice for a local getaway or as a temporary stopover. The ongoing efforts by base leadership to improve the FamCamp facilities, including recent renovation projects, indicate a commitment to enhancing the quality of stay for its patrons. For those who appreciate the unique high desert landscape of California and seek a camping experience tailored to their military affiliation, Edwards AFB FamCamp remains a valuable resource, providing a functional base from which to relax, reconnect, and take advantage of the support and community offered on post. It's a pragmatic choice for a comfortable and secure stay in the vast California desert.

Edwards AFB FamCamp

Edwards, CA 93523, USA