In Barstow, explore desert landscapes with off-roading, captivating stargazing, and rich history along Route 66. Adventure seekers find a unique playground in California's desert heart.
In Barstow, explore desert landscapes with off-roading, captivating stargazing, and rich history along Route 66. Adventure seekers find a unique playground in California's desert heart.
Adventure Awaits in Barstow, California
Barstow, a desert town in Southern California, is a unique spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore rugged landscapes and historic treasures. It's the perfect starting point for adventures both on and off the beaten path.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Barstow, California special.
★ 7.6⌖ 8.50 milesExplore the colorful Rainbow Basin Natural Area near Barstow, CA. Known for vibrant rock formations and fossils, this easily accessible desert landmark offers hiking and photography opportunities in cooler months. Expect moderate crowds and bring water and sun protection.
★ 7.5⌖ 41.88 milesExplore the dramatic rock formations at Holcomb Valley Pinnacles near Big Bear Lake, CA. Ideal for hiking and climbing, this area offers impressive granite spires and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visit in spring or fall for the best weather and enjoy a quieter experience.
★ 6.8⌖ 42.14 milesExplore the scenic Delamar Mountain in Southern California. Offering trails through lush forest and historical mining paths, it's a haven for hiking and wildlife watching. Best visited in spring or fall; accessible by a 30-minute drive from Big Bear Lake.
★ 8.5⌖ 42.83 milesModerateExplore the Pacific Crest Trail at Polique Canyon Trailhead near Big Bear, CA. This moderate 5-mile loop offers stunning views and wildlife watching. Ideal from late spring to early fall.
★ 6.8⌖ 42.98 milesModerateLocated near Green Valley Lake, the Holcomb Creek 4x4 Trail offers a moderate off-roading challenge across rocky terrain and creek crossings. The area also provides hiking and camping opportunities amidst scenic pine forests in San Bernardino National Forest.
★ 7.8⌖ 44.22 milesModerateExplore Cougar Crest Trailhead in Big Bear Lake, California. This moderate trail connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and offers breathtaking views. Perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. Popular in spring and fall.
★ 7.8⌖ 44.28 milesExplore Butler Peak in California's San Bernardino Mountains, known for its historic fire lookout. Enjoy hiking and bird watching in a serene setting. Best visited in late spring to early fall for stunning views and wildlife sightings.
★ 7.2⌖ 44.33 milesExplore the Big Bear Discovery Center in California's San Bernardino National Forest. A prime spot for hiking and kayaking, it's perfect for family visits. Discover nature exhibits and enjoy stunning lake views while learning about local ecosystems.
★ 7.8⌖ 44.48 milesEasyExplore Woodland Trail 1E23 in Big Bear, CA. An easy hike with educational plaques, perfect for families. Enjoy views of Big Bear Lake and the local wildlife. Ideal for a relaxing day in nature.
★ 6.7⌖ 44.65 milesEasyExplore the Alpine Pedal Path Trail in Big Bear Lake, CA. This easy 3.5-mile paved trail is ideal for cyclists and families, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. Enjoy wildlife sightings and a tranquil ride.
★ 8.2⌖ 44.92 milesExplore Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve in Big Bear, CA. With easy drive-in access, enjoy birdwatching and photography in a peaceful setting with diverse flora and fauna. Visit year-round for a serene and educational experience.
★ 8.5⌖ 45.38 milesModerateExplore the Granite Mountains in California, a moderate climbing destination known for its stunning granite formations and diverse desert life. Ideal in spring and fall, this remote area offers a serene backdrop for rock climbing, hiking, and camping.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Barstow, California, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Barstow, California.
⌖ 16.6 miA full‑day, 6‑hour guided ATV tour across Rasor Off‑Highway Vehicle Recreation Area and the Mojave Trails National Monument, useful for planning logistics and understanding what terrain and restrictions to expect.
⌖ 22.3 miA high-performance four-seat UTV rental in Yermo equipped with Polaris RIDE COMMAND GPS, automatic transmission and Bluetooth audio — this guide sums up what to expect from the Polaris RZR XP4 1000 experience.
⌖ 32.5 miA practical guide to Premium UTV Rentals’ PWC 2-3 seat offering in Pinon Hills — what’s included, how pickup and safety work, and how to plan your day on the water.
⌖ 33.2 miTwo-to-seven night stays in an authentic log cabin for up to five guests, with simple modern comforts and a short walk to shared bath facilities.
⌖ 35.1 miA one-hour, team-based research mission aboard the legendary Triton in Hesperia that tasks you with uncovering the submarine’s secrets—this guide lays out what to expect.
⌖ 35.1 miA guided, one‑hour escape experience in Hesperia that tasks teams with unraveling Wizard William Warwick’s spells and locating his hidden treasure before the lair claims them.
⌖ 38.9 miA private, guided 45-minute to 1-hour horseback ride for groups of 2–8 through scenic forest trails at Cornerstone Ranch, led by professional wranglers.
⌖ 42.9 miA practical guide to renting Premium UTV Rentals LLC’s turbocharged Can‑Am Maverick X3 RS Turbo RR for exploring southern California terrain.
⌖ 43.5 miA self-guided visit that lets large groups tour Forever Wild during open hours with a group discount—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 44.2 miA practical guide to renting a state-of-the-art 4‑seat UTV from Premium UTV Rentals LLC—what’s included, how to prepare, and the rules you need to know before you tow and ride in Southern California.
⌖ 44.7 miA concise guide to renting the Polaris RZR 170 — a two-seat UTV built for children aged 4–14 — covering features, safety rules, and the practical steps to get kids on the trails in Pinon Hills.
⌖ 45.3 miA roomy 24' Keystone Hideout sleeps 4–8 and comes with a full kitchen, climate control and LCD TV, plus free delivery to key Big Bear parks—this guide explains what to expect and where it can go.
⌖ 45.5 miHigh-performance Sea-Doos, instruction, fuel and life jackets are provided so you can explore Big Bear Lake at your own pace; this guide explains what’s included, the available rental durations and what to expect on the water.
⌖ 45.7 miTourZilla is a history tour at Big Bear Lake run by Big Bear Off-Road Experience; this guide compiles the verified practical facts you need to plan the outing.
⌖ 45.7 miA modern, non‑slideout 26' bunkhouse rental in Big Bear with front queen, double-over-double bunks and free local delivery — this guide distills the vehicle's layout, amenities, and practical booking facts.
Make the most of your visit to Barstow, California with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Barstow, California hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Barstow, California during the iconic Calico Days. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Barstow, California during the iconic Barstow Rodeo. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Barstow, California during the iconic Harvey House Rail Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Barstow, California is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
San Bernardino National Forest is a diverse expanse of mountainous wilderness offering abundant recreational opportunities from hiking to skiing, just a short drive from Southern California's urban areas.
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, Angeles National Forest offers diverse landscapes, from chaparral-covered hills to peaks surpassing 10,000 feet, offering ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its striking desert landscapes and iconic Joshua Trees.
Carry plenty of water when exploring outdoor areas.
Respect the desert environment by staying on marked trails.
Check seasonal weather conditions; summers can be extremely hot.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Barstow, California. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.